Troubleshooting VEX IQ Smart Motors

The following list provides scenarios for troubleshooting a Smart Motor:

Diagram illustrating troubleshooting steps for VEX IQ electronics, including connections and common issues, aimed at helping educators and students resolve problems in robotics projects.

The Smart Motor turns when it should not turn or the Smart Motor turns in the wrong direction.

  • Start by pairing the VEX IQ Robot Brain with the VEX IQ Controller and running the Driver Control program.
  • Click here to review the proper configuration included in “How to Use the Driver Control Program” and check that the Smart Motor is wired to the correct Smart Port.
  • If the Smart Motor turns when the Controller is not being pressed, try calibrating the Controller.
  • If the Smart Motor turns in the wrong direction, check whether the configuration of the Smart Motor should or should not be Reversed.  
  • If running a user program, check the program for possible errors that might cause the Smart Motor to move incorrectly.

The Smart Motor does not move at all.

  • Check that the Smart Cables’ connectors are fully seated (inserted) by pressing until an audible click is heard.
  • Try replacing the Smart Cables with new ones.

The Smart Motor is properly connected but now there is an error message.

The Smart Motor is detected as a Bumper Switch

  • Try replacing the Smart Cable with a new one.
  • Check the Smart Port on the Smart Motor for bent pins or debris.
  • Check the Smart Port on the Robot Brain for bent pins or debris.

Note: The Bumper Switch is a completely passive device, if the Robot Brain does not find a smart device like a motor, it checks to see if a Bumper Switch is present by measuring the resistance of certain pins in the Smart Port connection. If there is a problem with the connection of the Smart Port pins of the Smart Motor, it may show up as a Bumper Switch.

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

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