On November 1st, The Qubit Bot robotics team had the pleasure of hosting a virtual outreach session with rookie team 27123, YAD ATX, guiding them through the basics of FTC software setup and programming. This event, organized by Coach Vik, featured our Lead Programmer, Kylie, as the primary speaker, and it marked the start of a series of sessions aimed at supporting YAD ATX in developing their software skills. With YAD ATX beginning their FTC journey this season, they were eager to learn, and Kylie was excited to share her knowledge in the spirit of Coopertition and Gracious Professionalism.
Introduction to The Qubit Bot’s Lead Programmer: Kylie
Kylie, the Lead Programmer of the Qubit Bot team, began by introducing herself and sharing her FTC background, role responsibilities, and programming experience. She emphasized that while her journey in FTC has been rewarding, it took time to develop the skills required for programming robots effectively. Her passion for helping others understand FTC coding made her the ideal person to guide YAD ATX through this initial learning curve.
Key Topics Covered in the Workshop
The session covered a variety of essential topics, focusing on the practical tools and strategies that have become integral to FTC programming. Here’s a breakdown of the primary areas Kylie focused on:
Setting Up Essential FTC Software
Kylie guided YAD ATX step-by-step through downloading and setting up Android Studio, GitHub Desktop, and REV Hardware Client. Each tool serves a specific role in FTC software, and Kylie provided valuable insights on how to navigate the interfaces and get comfortable with each one.
Introduction to Android Studio and GitHub Desktop
As the primary coding platform for FTC teams, Android Studio allows for complex coding setups essential for the competition. Kylie walked through the download and layout of Android Studio, explaining its folder and file structure. She also demonstrated how to integrate Android Studio with GitHub Desktop, a version control tool, to allow the rookie team to collaborate efficiently and keep their code safe and organized.
Using REV Hardware Client for Code Deployment
Moving from coding to testing, Kylie introduced the REV Hardware Client, a tool used to deploy code from Android Studio to the robot’s Control Hub. She explained how the tool scans for devices, checks for updates, and ensures that code is properly uploaded and ready for testing. The team learned how to bridge their coding environment to the physical robot, making the robot’s movements and functions come to life.
In-Depth Teleop Code Walkthrough
By request, Kylie concluded with a hands-on demonstration of a sample driving Teleop code. She broke down each line of code, explaining gamepad controls, Teleop mode, and elapsed time periods. This section provided valuable context for YAD ATX on how FTC coding differs from general Java coding, specifically with aspects unique to robotics, like defining motors, servos, and writing if statements connected to gamepad inputs.
Learnings and Insights for the Rookie Team
Throughout the workshop, YAD ATX gained valuable insights and practical skills that will lay a strong foundation for their programming journey:
Software Setup Proficiency
The session empowered them to install and set up essential FTC applications independently, preparing them to tackle programming challenges with confidence.
Version Control for Collaboration
Learning to use GitHub Desktop in tandem with Android Studio was a key takeaway. They now understand how to manage code collaboratively, an essential skill for any team project.
Organized Coding Practices
Kylie emphasized the importance of organizing code in separate files for different robot functions, making debugging easier and updates more manageable.
Understanding FTC-Specific Coding Techniques
The team discovered that FTC programming requires a unique approach. Even with a Java background, there are additional considerations for coding FTC robots, like connecting code variables to robot hardware.
Deploying and Testing Code
With the REV Hardware Client, YAD ATX learned the critical process of deploying their code to the robot’s Control Hub, bridging the gap from theory to real-world testing.
Looking Ahead: Building on the Basics
This session was only the beginning of the journey for team 27123 YAD ATX. The Qubit Bot team plans to continue these outreach sessions, diving deeper into specific programming challenges and helping the rookie team gain confidence. Kylie found this session uniquely rewarding, as it allowed her to support a team that’s just starting, much like she once was. For YAD ATX, these outreach sessions represent more than just technical training—they symbolize the FTC community’s commitment to mutual support and growth.
Conclusion
Qubit Bot’s workshop with YAD ATX demonstrated the powerful impact of shared knowledge within the FTC community. By guiding YAD ATX through essential software setups and introducing core programming practices, Kylie and the Qubit Bot team provided invaluable support that will equip YAD ATX for success this season. Through these outreach sessions, the spirit of Coopertition thrives, as experienced team members pass down their expertise to the next generation of FTC programmers.
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