The VEX Cortex Microcontroller uses wireless 802.11b/g for communications through a proprietary VEXnet implementation. This implementation is designed to eliminate the need for any knowledge of IP addresses, MAC addresses, security settings, and IP protocols. Just turn it on and it automatically connects to the correct Joystick.
802.11 is a set of standards for implementing a wireless local area network communications between a series of devices. The VEXnet implementation utilizes wireless communication within the 2.4 GHz frequency band. Using this type of wireless communication allows huge amounts of data to be instantly transmitted back and forth between a VEXnet Joystick and a VEX Cortex Microcontroller. In the past, the only way to securely and reliably transmit such a large volume of data was by the use of wires and cables. However, this would not be conducive in many robotic applications. VEXnet allows users to gain complete and instantaneous wireless control.
Setting up the VEXnet Wireless Link
Refer to the Cortex Microcontroller and VEXnet Joystick User Guide to setup the VEXnet Wireless Link. This document is a very valuable resource when working with any VEX robot. Make sure to read it thoroughly and keep a copy handy. It includes many troubleshooting tips.
- Pair VEX Cortex Microcontroller and VEXnet Joystick. This procedure is detailed in Step 1 of the User Guide.