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Unread 19-01-2017, 13:05
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Skyehawk Skyehawk is offline
Nuts N' Bolts
AKA: Skye Leake
FRC #0876 (Thunder Robotics)
Team Role: Mentor
 
Join Date: Nov 2012
Rookie Year: 2011
Location: Northwood, ND
Posts: 271
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Re: First time with programming Java

Quote:
Originally Posted by ckpash88 View Post
Hello,

My team has basically started from the beginning and we are not sure how to program with Java. We were able to get everything downloaded and on the RoboRio. We are now trying to program our testbot that has 4 motor, 4 victor, tank drive, with one joystick.

The problem we have no one that really understands coding but we have a coach that can muddle himself through is he has video or tutorials to follow.
Programming a robot is not a whole lot different than writing code for any other reason. Assuming you are sticking with the default project structure you will not need to get too in depth. There are some basic skills that everyone needs to understand for java, and by extension just about every other programming language.

First thing first: try to get default code running, nothing will frustrate you more than not knowing why your seemingly correct code isn't working. Default code is a great way to eliminate variables in the pipeline.

Look for tutorials on:
Java IDEs (familiarize yourself with the tools of the IDE you are using)
Data types
Logic
Imports (and later external libraries (libs))
Methods (functions)
Loops (and timing)
Java WPI robotics Library (for java)

Once you have those skills look into Java specific tutorials (object based languages):
Objects (classes)
Inhertance
Interfaces

At this point you should know enough to explore on your own, you will have a better handle on what you need to learn.

The 2017 control system paper should provide information on compiling and uploading code to the RoboRio

Community, please feel free to add/disagree with my java skills basics list.

Good Luck,
Skye Leake
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My time in FIRST has made me a better person, frankly I don't know where I'd be without it.



2011 Lake Superior Regional Champs (Thanks 2512 & 3747)
2015 Central Illinois Regional Engineering Inspiration Award recipients
2016 Central Illinois Regional Champs (Thanks 2481 & 2220)

Last edited by Skyehawk : 19-01-2017 at 13:34. Reason: Update
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