Updating VEX IQ (1st gen) Firmware with VEXos Utility – VEX Library

Using VEX IQ (2nd generation) with App-based VEXcode IQ? See this article.

VEX IQ Smart Devices, including the Brain, Controller, Smart Motor, and sensors, contain their own internal processors and run special software called firmware. VEX IQ Firmware is called VEXos.

VEXos is a robotics operating system that harnesses the flexibility and power of VEX hardware for the rigors of competition and the diverse needs of robotics education. This operating system uses real-time processing for repeatable operation at the fastest possible speeds.

The VEX IQ Brain is coded using VEXcode IQ. VEXcode IQ requires the most up-to-date VEXos because:

Each update of VEXcode IQ will require the latest version of the VEXos firmware to be installed on the Brain before projects can be downloaded.
VEXos updates include fixes for known bugs and the software additions needed to operate any new devices incorporated into the VEX IQ product line.
Updates allow use of advanced programming features.

Updating firmware regularly ensures that VEX IQ Smart Devices function properly. If your Brain is not connecting to VEXcode IQ, or the Brain icon is orange in the VEXcode IQ Toolbar, you must update your firmware.

VEXcode IQ with an orange Brain icon on the Toolbar to indicate that the Brain's firmware is out of date.

Note: Ensure VEXcode IQ, or any other VEXcode application, is closed before attempting to open the VEXos Utility. Both applications cannot be open and running at the same time.

Downloading VEXos

VEXos Utility app icon.

The VEXos firmware is a separate application and needs to be downloaded to your Windows or Mac device.

Screenshot of the VEX Library article with links to download the VEXos firmware utility.

For more information about installing VEXos on your device, view these articles from the VEX Library:

Using VEXos to Update VEX IQ

After downloading and installing the VEXos application, the firmware for your IQ Brain, associated motors, and sensors can be updated by completing the following steps:

Brain connected to a laptop computer using a USB cable.

Using the USB-Cable, connect your device to the IQ Brain.

Brain with its Check button highlighted to indicate that it should be pressed to turn the Brain on.

Turn the IQ Brain on.

VEXos Utility app icon.

Launch the VEXos Utility.

Screenshot of the VEXos Utility window with a message that reads Connect a VEX product via USB. A diagram indicates that the computer must be connected to the internet and a VEX product to be able to update that product's firmware.

Ensure all electronic devices (Smart Motors, sensors, and tethered controller) are connected to the IQ Brain.

Screenshot of the VEXos Utility window with a Brain connected via USB. The Brain and all of its connections are shown in a diagram, including 11 Smart Port devices and the controller. Certain devices, including the Brain, are highlighted yellow indicating that their firmware is out of date.

The parts that need to be updated are highlighted in yellow.

Screenshot of the VEXos Utility window with a Brain connected via USB. Certain devices in the diagram are highlighted yellow, indicating that their firmware is out of date. The Install button below is highlighted.

Select ‘Install’ on the VEXos Utility and do not disconnect any cables or close the utility until the update is complete.

Note: The IQ Brain might reboot during the update process. Only turn the IQ Brain back on if prompted to do so.

When the update is complete, you will hear a cheering sound and see the message, "All connected VEX products are up to date." You can then disconnect the IQ Brain from the computer. You have successfully upgraded the firmware for the IQ Brain and connected components!

VEXcode IQ with a green Brain icon on the Toolbar to indicate that the Brain's firmware is up to date. The Brain dropdown menu is open and the listed Firmware is highlighted and reads Up to date.

Now, when you connect your IQ Brain to VEXcode IQ, a green Brain icon will appear in the Toolbar instead of an orange Brain icon. You will now be able to download and run VEXcode IQ projects.