Where do we get NXT-G?

[Dakota]

I've read we have to use NXT-G to program the minibot, but where do we get that? The Lego site has been absolutely useless. Will NXT-G include the NXT "blocks" for the hitechnic controller?

[KevinReid]

NXT-G is the programming software for the NXT Bricks.
It is bought from LEGO.

[treffk]

If you buy an NXT brick by itself you have to purchase the license for NXT-G. If you buy a full kit from LEGO education or Toys'R'Us the software will be included.

BUT NXT-G will not program HiTechnic items, HiTechnic needs RobotC software or as I just found out LabView will work too. (http://usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/ftc/content.aspx?id=6650) which you can purchase the license from http://www.legoeducation.us/store/detail.aspx?ID=1355&bhcp=1. NXT-G is traditionally used in FLL (or home kits) with the LEGO sensors. RobotC is FTC's software and works with Tetrix items. It can be a bit confusing trying to find this information on the lego education website.

PM me if you have other questions about the brick or software, I work heavily with FLL and have assistant coached 3 different FLL teams.

[nighterfighter]

You are not required to use any programming on your minibot.

[treffk]

You are not required to use any programming on your minibot.

But if you are using the HiTechnic servo controller or touch sensor(for example) you have to use the NXT brick which requires programing.

[nighterfighter]

But if you are using the HiTechnic servo controller or touch sensor(for example) you have to use the NXT brick which requires programing.

Ah yes, I suppose that is true...

[WizenedEE]

http://zone.ni.com/devzone/cda/tut/p/id/4435

Labview extension that makes you able to program NXTs. It works like a charm.

1000x better than NXT-G or Robolab or any of that beginner stuff. Be careful because you can't use all the labview functions on the NXT (Like the in range and coerce function is out).

There's a similar toolkit that lets you do robolab (since robolab is based off of labview).