New to this and Need Help

Technical C/C++
1

Hey everyone I’m brand new to all this programming stuff and I have NO idea what I’m doing. If there are any websites out there that you know of that you would not mind sharing with me that would be AMAZING!!!, and also just any advice or tips and tricks they would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much!!

2

If you’ve never done any programming before, I would highly recommend starting with either LabView or Java before trying C++. Take a look at both and see which one you feel is more intuitive.

Of course, this only applies if your team doesn’t already have other programmers with more experience in C++. If that’s the case, then check out the programming section on this website:

http://wpilib.screenstepslive.com/s/3120

For some fairly broad documentation for all 3 languages.

3

See we have both Labview and Java, but the thing is I have NO Idea what im duing and I am the only Programmer so its kinda like Where do I start?

4

You’re not the first person who has had this situation this season. Here is a lovely thread with many suggested references.

5

Hey thanks so much!!, Do you have any tips or tricks on anything and everything because I am thinking of switching to Labview??

6

If you’re the only programmer and you’re starting fresh, use Java or LabView. Trying to learn C++ in 4 weeks is going to be a nightmare.

Over the next 2 days take a look at each language, look at some example code, and decide which one you can read and comprehend easier. Documentation is essentially equal now so don’t worry about that, just figure out which one comes more naturally to you and dive into it.

7

As someone who has learned programming from scratch for both Labview and C++ solely within the context of FIRST, I would strongly recommend Labview. The examples in Labview are abundant and many include wiring diagrams on the Front panel of the sample program.

One of the best resources I learned Labview programming was from http://www.frcmastery.com/ I just checked their site and it has not been updated since the 2011 season. The Labview framework has not changed greatly and is still a great place to learn the basics specifically applied to FIRST.