Programming is the process of designing, writing, testing, debugging, and maintaining the source code of computer programs. It is a set of instructions that tell a computer what to do and how to do it.
Programming languages are the languages used to write the source code of programs. There are many programming languages, each with its own syntax, structure, and rules. The four most popular programming languages used in FRC include Python, Java, C++, and LabVIEW.
Programming languages exist to provide a way for humans to communicate instructions to computers in a manner that they can understand and execute.
Computers are essentially machines that perform operations based on a set of instructions. However, computers do not understand natural language like humans do, so programming languages provide a way for us to write code in a structured, formal syntax that the computer can interpret and execute.
Programming languages have evolved over time to become more user-friendly, easier to read, and capable of abstracting complex concepts into simple, high-level constructs. This makes it easier for humans to write and understand code, and allows for the creation of more complex programs.
Additionally, programming languages serve as a means of communication between developers, enabling them to share, reuse, and build upon each other’s code.
In summary, programming languages exist to provide a bridge between human language and the language of computers, enabling us to create software that can perform a wide range of tasks and solve complex problems.
Robotics programming involves writing code that controls the behavior and actions of robots. This code can control how a robot moves, interacts with its environment, and processes information from sensors.
The basics of robotics programming usually start with understanding how to control the movement of a robot’s motors, how to gather and interpret data from sensors, and how to make decisions based on that data. This requires an understanding of the underlying hardware and how to communicate with it using code.
Once you have a basic understanding of these concepts, you can start writing code to control a robot’s movements, such as making it move forward, turn, and avoid obstacles. You can also write code that enables the robot to make decisions based on the data it gathers from its sensors, such as determining the distance to an object and avoiding collisions.
Overall, robotics programming is an exciting and challenging field that combines both software and hardware skills. With time and practice, you can develop your skills and create more sophisticated robots that can perform complex tasks.
The next few chapters will guide you through the aspects of each programming language listed below this includes:
| Order | Page Title | Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 6.1.1 | Java | 30 minutes |
| 6.1.2 | C++ | 30 minutes |
| 6.1.3 | LabVIEW | 30 minutes |
| 6.1.4 | Python | 30 minutes |