Updating VEX IQ (2nd gen) Brain Firmware in App-based VEXcode IQ – VEX Library

Updating your (2nd gen) firmware with Web-based VEXcode IQ? See this article.

Using VEX IQ (1st generation)? See this article.

Many VEX IQ products contain their own internal processors and run on a special Operating System. This software is the VEX IQ Firmware and is called VEXos.

Note: VEXcode IQ can only update the firmware on the IQ (2nd gen) Brain when connected to a device via a USB cable. VEXcode IQ does not support updating the firmware on the IQ Brain when using an iPad, Android, or Fire tablet.

What is Firmware?

This Operating System is written entirely by VEX Robotics, and harnesses the flexibility and power of VEX hardware for the diverse needs of education and the rigors of competition. The Brain will automatically push out the latest updates to any IQ device that is connected to it.

Why Should I Update?

There are several reasons why you should update your VEX IQ Brain’s firmware with the latest VEXos, some of these include:

Each update of VEXcode IQ will require the latest version of the VEXos firmware installed on the Brain before user programs can be downloaded.
VEXos updates will include fixes for known bugs and add the software which is needed to operate any new devices introduced into the VEX IQ line.
Updates allow for advanced programming features.
The best way to ensure that your VEX IQ system is functioning properly is to keep the software up to date.

How to Update (2nd generation) Brain Firmware

VEX IQ icon representing the category for educational resources and documentation on the VEX IQ Robotics platform, including firmware updates, programming tutorials, and project ideas for beginners and educators.

First ensure no other applications that work with VEX hardware are open in the background - such as Web-based VEXcode IQ or Visual Studio Code.

Illustration of a human brain connected to a laptop, symbolizing the integration of technology and robotics in education, relevant to the VEX IQ Robotics platform and its firmware resources.

Make sure the Brain is properly wired to your computer and powered on.

Once the Brain is connected, launch VEXcode IQ.

Note: if you do not have VEXcode IQ downloaded, visit this page to download it.

Screenshot showing firmware update instructions for the VEX IQ Robotics platform, including steps for downloading and installing the latest firmware version to enhance robot functionality and performance.

If the Brain icon color on the VEXcode IQ menu bar is orange, you will need to update your firmware. You can update the Brain in VEXcode IQ by selecting the ‘Update’ button.

Screenshot showing the firmware update process for VEX IQ Robotics platform, including step-by-step instructions and interface elements for users to follow in order to successfully update their robot's firmware.

Wait while the firmware updates.

Screenshot of VEX IQ firmware update instructions, displaying steps for updating the firmware on VEX IQ robotics systems, including version details and guidance for users to ensure their devices are up-to-date for optimal performance.

Once completed, select ‘OK.’ The IQ Brain will power off and then back on, known as power cycling.

Screenshot showing the firmware update process for VEX IQ Robotics platform, including options for checking current firmware version and instructions for downloading and installing updates.

Once your firmware has been updated, the Brain icon will turn green.