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

Updating your (2nd gen) firmware with App-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: Updating firmware via Web-based VEXcode IQ is only available for 2nd gen Brains, and VEXcode IQ can only update the firmware on the IQ Brain when connected to a device via a USB cable. Web-based 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 Brain Firmware

Screenshot of the VEX IQ firmware update interface, displaying options for checking and installing firmware updates for VEX IQ robotics components, aimed at enhancing user experience and functionality in educational robotics projects.

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

Firmware update instructions for VEX IQ Robotics platform, featuring visual representation of the update process and relevant components, aimed at enhancing user understanding of system maintenance and programming.

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

Once the Brain is connected, launch Web-based VEXcode IQ.

For more information about connecting to web-based VEXcode IQ, view the following articles:

Screenshot of VEX IQ firmware update instructions, featuring a step-by-step guide for users to follow, including visual indicators and buttons for updating the VEX IQ robotics system.

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 IQ by selecting the ‘Update’ button. Or by opening the Brain Icon in the toolbar and selecting 'Update'.

Screenshot of VEX IQ firmware update instructions, showcasing steps for upgrading the VEX IQ Robotics platform software, including visual indicators and key actions for users to follow in the VEX knowledge base.

Wait while the firmware updates.

Screenshot of the VEX IQ firmware update interface, displaying version information and update options for the VEX IQ Robotics platform, aimed at educators and students to enhance their robotics projects and learning experience.

The update will complete, then you will need to reconnect your Brain.

Diagram illustrating the firmware update process for VEX IQ robotics systems, showing steps and components involved in ensuring the system is up-to-date for optimal performance in educational robotics projects.

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