Intro to Programming

What is Programming?

Programming is when you give instructions to a computer. However, the instructions are written in a language that the computer can read and understand. These languages are programming languages and there are many different types that have different or sometimes similar usages. In FRC, Java, C++ and Python are three programming languages that are used to program robots.

What is Java?

Java is also an object-oriented programming language, which means its work is done by having objects that different actions, or functions, are called on. Java is also the most common programming language used in FRC which is why FRCSoftware in Java. For FRC teams that use Java, learning Java is first step for learning how to program a robot.

Why Program in FRC?

In FIRST Robotics, robots are made out of many mechanisms. They have drive trains, flywheels, arms, intakes, elevators, etc. Programming is important in FIRST Robotics because code is used to program motors, and sensors which allows those different mechanisms to move. Teams can use sensors on a motor to deploy an intake, program the intake’s motor to spin so it can pick up a foam ball, program a drive train, etc. FIRST Robotics Competition, teams also program autonomous features for the portion of the game where robots drive themselves. In autonomous, points are typically doubled so it’s important to have code written which allows the robot to score points using preprogrammed instructions.