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Running Driver Control Programs - IQ Brain (1st gen)

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

The Driver Control Program is a default program built into the VEX IQ Robot Brain so it can be used with Smart Motors, Bumper Switches, and the VEX IQ Controller without programming. The Driver Control Program maps the Controller’s joysticks and buttons to control specific Smart Ports on the Brain.

Step 1: Check that the Smart Ports are properly wired.

Above is a view of the Brain's Smart Ports, with 6 on opposite sides for 12 total. Below is a view of the Brain's screen and buttons.Diagram of the IQ (1st gen) Controller showing its buttons and joysticks. Above is a view from the front of the controller, with the left joystick's axes are labeled as A and B. The two round buttons below the left joystick are labeled as the E axis. The right joystick's axes are labeled as C and D. The two round buttons below the right joystick are labeled as the F axis. Below is a view of the top of the controller to show the shoulder buttons. The two buttons on the left side of the controller are labeled as the L axis, and the two buttons on the right side of the controller are labeled as the R axis.

Smart Port Number Device Type Functionality
1 Smart Motor Turns using Joystick A
2 Bumper Switch Stops R Down button from turning Smart Motor in Port 4
3 Bumper Switch Stops R Up button from turning Smart Motor in Port 4
4 Smart Motor Turns using R buttons
5 Smart Motor Turns using F buttons
6 Smart Motor Turns using Joystick D
7 Smart Motor Turns using Joystick A
8 Bumper Switch Stops L Down button from turning Smart Motor in Port 10
9 Bumper Switch Stops L Up button from turning Smart Motor in Port 10
10 Smart Motor Turns using L buttons
11 Smart Motor Turns using E buttons
12 Smart Motor Turns using Joystick D
  • Check that Smart Ports 1-12 have the correct types of devices listed in the table above.
  • Check that the Controller is wirelessly connected.

NOTE: To review how to connect devices to Smart Ports properly, click here. 

Step 2: Find and Run the Driver Control program

On the left the Brain's screen is shown in the Programs menu and the Driver Control option is selected. On the right the Brain's screen is shown in the Driver Control menu and the Run option is selected.

  • After powering on the Brain, highlight and press the Check button to select Driver Control.
  • Highlight and press the Check button to Run the program.
  • Use the Controller to move the robot. Click here to view the article on how to pair the Controller with the Brain.

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

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