Power and Connect the 6-Axis Arm
Before you begin the Lessons in this Unit, you will need to be sure your 6-Axis Arm is powered on and connected to a computer. You will also need to ensure your 6-Axis Arm is connected to VEXcode EXP.
Connecting the Cables of the 6-Axis Arm
Power the 6-Axis Robotic Arm
The CTE 6-Axis Robotic Arm needs an external power source to operate when directly connected. On the back of the 6-Axis Robotic Arm's base, you will find three ports. Connect the power cable into the rightmost port that says "12VDC" beneath it.
Then connect the other end to an electrical outlet. Your 6-Axis Robotic Arm is now powered and ready to be connected to a computer or EXP Brain.
Connect the 6-Axis Robotic Arm to a Computer
On the back of the 6-Axis Robotic Arm's base, you will find three ports. Connect the USB-C into the leftmost port.
Connect the other end of the cable into your computer.
Once the 6-Axis Arm is powered and connected to a computer, the indicator light will glow green.
Connect the 6-Axis Arm to VEXcode EXP
You will need to connect the 6-Axis Arm to VEXcode EXP in order to complete the Lessons in this Unit. Follow the steps in the 'Connecting the 6-Axis Arm' section below that matches the version of VEXcode EXP that you are using (web-based or app-based). Unsure of which version you are using? Ask your instructor.
Connecting the 6-Axis Arm to Web-Based VEXcode EXP
To access the web-based version of VEXcode EXP, you must be using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser on a Windows, Mac, or Chromebook.
To access VEXcode EXP, navigate to codeexp.vex.com.
Create a new Arm project by following the steps in this video.
To connect the 6-Axis Arm, select the ARM icon in the Toolbar.
Select Connect Arm.
A text box will appear explaining which option to choose in the following connection window.
Select Continue on the text box to open the connection window.
Select the 6-Axis Arm that says Communications Port.
If Communications Port is not shown as an option, move to the next step.
If Communications Port is not shown as an option, select the 6-Axis Arm with the lowest ID number.
Select the Connect button, once you have chosen a 6-Axis Arm.
Once the 6-Axis Arm is successfully connected the Arm icon will turn green.
Connecting the 6-Axis Arm in App-based VEXcode EXP
Open VEXcode EXP.
Create a new Arm project by following the steps in this video.
The Arm Icon will display green once the 6-Axis Arm is powered on and connected to the device with VEXcode EXP opened.
Select Next > to begin Lesson 1.