Pairing a Controller (1st gen) to Brain (1st gen)- IQ

Using VEX IQ (2nd generation)? See this article.

Step 1: Gather the required components.

VEX IQ Controller with buttons and joystick, designed for educational robotics. The image illustrates the layout and features of the controller, which is used for programming and operating VEX IQ robots in various projects and competitions.

Gather the following items:

  • VEX IQ Controller with inserted VEX IQ Radio
  • Tether Cable
  • VEX IQ Brain with a charged VEX IQ Robot Battery and with a VEX IQ Radio matching the Controller’s

NOTE: The Radios shown are one type of several. Click here to read about the three types of Radios.

NOTE: Make sure that the Radios are inserted into the Controller and the Brain:

  • Click here for the article, “How to Install and Remove a VEX IQ Controller Radio.”
  • Click here for the article, “How to Install and Remove a VEX IQ Robot Brain Radio.”

Step 2: Connect Devices.

VEX IQ Controller image showing the layout of buttons and joystick, designed for educational robotics, illustrating its features for programming and controlling VEX IQ robots in a learning environment.

Make sure both devices are powered off before being connected.

Connect the Controller to the Brain using the tethering cable. 

Step 3: Check Tethered Connectivity.

VEX IQ Controller image showcasing its layout and buttons, designed for educational robotics, highlighting features for programming and operating VEX IQ robots in various projects and competitions.

Click the Check button to turn the Brain on.

Check that the Controller is connected by viewing the tether connection symbol at the top right of the screen next to the battery icon.

Step 4: Check Wireless Connectivity.

Diagram of the VEX IQ Controller, showcasing its buttons, joystick, and display features, designed for educational robotics use and programming with VEXcode IQ.

Disconnect the Controller from the Brain by removing the tether cord. 

Check that the Controller is connected to the Brain wirelessly by viewing the wireless connect symbol at the top right of the screen next to the battery icon. If the Brain and Controller are not linked, turn them both off and repeat the process.

NOTE: When wirelessly connected, the Brain’s LED and the Controller’s Power/Link LED should both blink.

NOTE: If the icon at the top right of the screen does not look like the one shown, click here for the article, “Understanding the VEX IQ Robot Brain’s Connectivity Icons”.

For more information, help, and tips, check out the many resources at VEX Professional Development Plus

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