Updating VEX EXP Brain Firmware in App-based VEXcode EXP

Updating your firmware with Web-based VEXcode EXP? See this article.

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

Note: VEXcode EXP can only update the firmware on the EXP Brain when connected to a device via a USB cable. VEXcode EXP does not support updating the firmware on the EXP 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 EXP device that is connected to it.


Why Should I Update?

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

  • Each update of VEXcode EXP 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 EXP line.
  • Updates allow for advanced programming features.
  • The best way to ensure that your VEX EXP system is functioning properly is to keep the software up to date.

How to Update Brain Firmware

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

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

Once the Brain is connected, launch VEXcode EXP. 

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

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If the Brain's firmware is out of date, you will receive a prompt and the Brain icon will turn orange in the Toolbar.
You can update the Brain's firmware in VEXcode EXP by selecting the ‘Update’ button.

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Wait while the firmware updates.

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

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

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

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