VEX Robotics VEX IQ Firmware Update Utility for Mac OS

All of the VEX IQ Smart Devices (Robot Brain, Controller, Smart Motor, and sensors) contain their own internal processors and run special software called firmware. This firmware is what allows for advanced programming features and an enhanced user experience. The best way to ensure that your VEX IQ system is functioning properly is to keep the firmware up to date.

Important Note: When the firmware on the Robot Brain is updated, all sensors and motors must also be updated by plugging them in to the Brain during the update.

Robot Brain Firmware Version 1.16

Updated September 2015
- Supports VEX IQ Smart Radio 

Controller Firmware Version 1.05

Updated September 2015
- Supports VEX IQ Smart Radio

Installing the VEX IQ Firmware Update Utility

Note: If you have already installed the VEX IQ Firmware Update Utility, proceed to step one of using the firmware updater.
1. Download the installer.
2. Mount the DMG by opening the downloaded file and following the on-screen instructions.
3. Open the DMG (found on your desktop) and drag the Firmware Update Utility to the Applications folder.

Using the VEX IQ Firmware Updater - 3 Easy Steps!

- Plug all devices into the Robot Brain, and plug the Robot Brain into your computer via USB.
- Turn on the Robot Brain.
- Open the VEX IQ Firmware Updater, and click "Update All Components". Note: If using a Smart Radio, be sure to select the corresponding programming environment button.

About Device Firmware:

Applying a newer firmware version than the one already installed on your unit can bring various enhancements, include workarounds for diverse problems encountered by the device, and improve or add newly developed features.

On the other hand, downgrading the firmware version can recover the device’s functionality in the event of a software update either turning up faulty or causing the unit’s overall performance to drop. However, bear in mind that applying an older firmware isn’t recommended and might not always be possible.

When it comes to the update steps, due to the large variety of devices and numerous ways for installing a new firmware, it is recommended that you carefully read and understand the upgrade steps, and consider applying a different firmware only when you have familiarized yourself with the update method.

As the installation process is most of the times quite risky, this step should be taken by users that have the ability to successfully complete the update; regular users may initiate it at their own risk. Moreover, it’s best that this task be performed in a steady power environment such as the one ensured by a UPS unit.

Therefore, if you consider applying this release, hit the download button, take into account all the aforementioned aspects, and update the device’s firmware. Also make sure you constantly check with our website to ensure that you don’t miss a single new release.