LEGO Systems 95646A EV3 Brick with Bluetooth wireless Transceiver User Manual
LEGO Systems Inc EV3 Brick with Bluetooth wireless Transceiver
Contents
- 1. user manual
- 2. user manual statements
user manual
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1.png)
User Guide
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2.png)
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
p. 2LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
Useful Information
+ Sound File List ........................................................................................................ 46
+ Image File List ........................................................................................................ 51
+ Brick Program App—Assets List ............................................................. 55
+ Element List .............................................................................................................. 56
Introduction
+ Welcome ...................................................................................................................... 3
EV3 Technology
+ Overview ..................................................................................................................... 4
+ EV3 Brick ..................................................................................................................... 5
Overview ...................................................................................................................... 5
Installing Batteries ............................................................................................... 8
Turning On the EV3 Brick ................................................................................ 9
+ EV3 Motors ................................................................................................................. 10
Large Motor ............................................................................................................... 10
Medium Motor ......................................................................................................... 10
+ EV3 Sensors ............................................................................................................. 11
Color Sensor ............................................................................................................. 11
Touch Sensor ........................................................................................................... 12
Infrared Sensor ....................................................................................................... 13
Remote Infrared Beacon ................................................................................. 13
+ Connecting the EV3 Technology .............................................................. 15
Connecting Sensors and Motors ............................................................. 15
Connecting the EV3 Brick to Your Computer .................................. 16
+ EV3 Brick Interface ............................................................................................. 21
Run Recent ................................................................................................................ 21
File Navigation ......................................................................................................... 21
Brick Apps .................................................................................................................. 22
Settings ......................................................................................................................... 26
EV3 Software
+ Minimum System Requirements ............................................................. 30
+ Installing the Software ..................................................................................... 30
+ Lobby ............................................................................................................................. 31
+ Project Properties and Structure ............................................................ 32
+ Robot Missions ....................................................................................................... 34
+ Programming ........................................................................................................... 35
+ Hardware Page ...................................................................................................... 38
+ Content Editor ......................................................................................................... 40
+ Tools ................................................................................................................................ 41
Troubleshooting
+ EV3 Software Help .............................................................................................. 43
+ Software Updates ................................................................................................ 43
+ Firmware Update .................................................................................................. 44
+ Resetting the EV3 Brick .................................................................................. 45
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg3.png)
p. 3LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the world of LEGO® MINDSTORMS®
In this LEGO
®
MINDSTORMS
®
EV3 robotics set you have all
theelements you need to create and command thousands of LEGO
robots.
If you have never built a LEGO MINDSTORMS robot before, we
recommend that you start by building one of the five cool robot
characters pictured on the EV3 packaging. In the Robot Missions
inside the EV3 programming software, you’ll find building instructions
and examples of how to program these robots. The robots have been
created by LEGO MINDSTORMS designers to demonstrate some of
the ways you can build and program with the LEGO MINDSTORMS
EV3 robotics system. Before you know it, you’ll turn your own LEGO
creations into live robots of every type and with many different kinds
of behavior!
With LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3, building and programming your
own robot has never been easier. Think of a robot and then build
it. Use the motors and sensors to add behavior and movement.
Thesoftware will guide you in bringing your robot to life.
Create: Build your robot using the LEGO elements, motors, and
intelligent sensors included in the set.
Command: Program your robot in the intuitive icon-based
programming interface. Drag and drop the actions that you want
into the programming window and adjust them to suit your robot’s
behavior.
Go! Once you have built and programmed your robot, it’s time to
play!
Visit LEGO.com/mindstorms to see what’s new and what others are
doing with their LEGO MINDSTORMS set. When you and other LEGO
MINDSTORMS fans share your creations and your experiences, we
all benefit.
See you there!
Welcome
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg4.png)
p. 4LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Overview
Touch Sensor
+ Recognizes three
conditions: touched,
bumped, and released.
EV3 Brick
+ Serves as the control center
and power station for your
robot.
Remote Infrared Beacon
+ Remote controls your robot
from a distance.
Large Motor
+ Lets you program
precise and powerful
robotic action.
Medium Motor
+ Maintains precision, while
trading some power for
compact size and faster
response.
Color Sensor
+ Recognizes seven different
colors and measures light
intensity.
Infrared Sensor
+ Detects objects and can
track and find the Remote
Infrared Beacon.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg5.png)
p. 5LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
EV3 Brick
Overview
The Display shows you what is going on inside the EV3 Brick and
enables you to use the Brick Interface. It also allows you to add
text and numerical or graphic responses into your programming or
experiments. For example, you might want to program the Display
to show a happy face (or a sad face) for a comparison response or
to display a number that is the result of a mathematical calculation
(learn more about using the Display Block in the EV3 Software Help).
The Brick Buttons allow you to navigate inside the EV3 Brick
Interface. They can also be used as programmable activators. For
example, you might program a robot to raise its arms if the Up button
is pressed or to lower them if the Down button is pressed (for more
information, see Using the Brick Buttons in the EV3 Software Help).
Wireless Connection
Status Icons
(from the left):
Bluetooth enabled but not
connected or visible to other
Bluetooth devices
Bluetooth enabled and visible
to other Bluetooth devices
Bluetooth enabled and your
EV3 Brick is connected to
another Bluetooth device
Bluetooth enabled and visible
and your EV3 Brick is connected
to another Bluetooth device
Wi-Fi enabled but not connected
to a network
Wi-Fi enabled and connected
to a network
Battery level
USB connection established
to another device
Brick Buttons
Back
This button is used to reverse
actions, to abort a running
program, and to shut down
theEV3 Brick.
Center
Pressing the Center button says
“OK” to various questions—to shut
down, to select desired settings,
or to select blocks in theBrick
Program App. You would, for
example, press this button to
select a checkbox.
Left, Right, Up, Down
These four buttons are used to
navigate through the contents of
the EV3 Brick.
Brick Name
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg6.png)
p. 6LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
The Brick Status Light that surrounds the Brick Buttons tells you
the current status of the EV3 Brick. It can be green, orange, or red,
and can pulse. Brick Status Light codes are the following:
+ Red = Startup, Updating, Shutdown
+ Red pulsing = Busy
+ Orange = Alert, Ready
+ Orange pulsing = Alert, Running
+ Green = Ready
+ Green pulsing = Running program
You can also program the Brick Status Light to show different colors
and to pulse when different conditions are met (learn more about
using the Brick Status Light Block in the EV3 Software Help).
EV3 Brick
Technical
Specifications
for the EV3 Brick
+Operating System—LINUX
+300 MHz ARM9 Controller
+Flash Memory—16 MB
+RAM—64 MB
+Brick Screen Resolution—178x128/Black & White
+USB 2.0 Communication to Host PC—Up to 480 Mbit/sec
+USB 1.1 Host Communication—Up to 12 Mbit/sec
+Micro SD Card—Supports SDHC, Version 2.0, Max
32 GB
+Motor and Sensor Ports
+Connectors—RJ12
+Support Auto ID
+Power—6 AA batteries
Brick Status Light – Red Brick Status Light – Orange Brick Status Light – Green
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg7.png)
p. 7LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Input Ports
Input Ports 1, 2, 3, and 4 are
used to connect sensors to
theEV3 Brick.
PC Port
The Mini-USB PC Port, located
next to the D port, is used
to connect theEV3 Brick to
acomputer.
Output Ports
Output Ports A, B, C, and D
are used to connect motors to
the EV3 Brick.
Speaker
All sounds from the EV3 Brick
come through this speaker—
including any sound effects used
in programming your robots.
When the quality of the sound
is important to you, try to leave
the speaker uncovered while
designing your robot.
Check out the cool sound files
that can be programmed with
in the EV3 Software (learn more
about using the Sound Block in
the EV3 Software Help).
SD Card Port
The SD Card Port increases
theavailable memory for your
EV3 Brick with an SD card
(maximum 32 GB—not included).
USB Host Port
The USB Host Port can be used
to add a USB Wi-Fi dongle for
connecting to a wireless network,
or to connect up to four EV3
Bricks together (daisy chain).
EV3 Brick
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg8.png)
AA, 1.5V x 6
p. 8LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
EV3 Brick
Installing Batteries
in the EV3 Brick
The EV3 Brick requires six AA/LR6 batteries. Alkaline or rechargeable
Lithium Ion AA batteries are recommended.
To install the AA batteries, remove the battery cover on the back of
the EV3 Brick by pressing the two plastic tabs on the side. After you
have inserted the six AA batteries, attach the battery cover again.
Some important information about batteries:
+ Never use different kinds of batteries together
(including mixing old and new).
+ Remove batteries from the EV3 Brick when not in use.
+ Never use damaged batteries.
+ Use the correct battery charger under the supervision of
an adult.
+ Never attempt to recharge batteries that are not rechargeable.
Note: If your batteries are weak, the Brick Status Light may stay red
after you press the Start button, while the Display continues to say
“Starting.”
Power-Saving Practices
+ Remove the batteries between use.
Remember to keep each set of batteries in its own storage
container so they can be used together.
+ Reduce the volume.
+ Adjust the Sleep Setting.
+ Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use.
+ Avoid unnecessary wear on the motors.
Low Battery Power Indicator
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg9.png)
p. 9LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Turning On the EV3 Brick
To turn on the EV3 Brick, press the Center button. After you press
thebutton, the Brick Status Light will turn red and the Starting screen
will be displayed.
When the light changes to green, your EV3 Brick is ready.
To turn the EV3 Brick off, press the Back button until you see theShut
Down screen.
The Abort X will already be selected. Use the Right button to select
the Accept check mark, then press the Center button for OK. Your
EV3 Brick is now turned off. If you press OK while the X is selected,
you will return to the Run Recent screen.
EV3 Brick
Starting screen
Shut Down screen
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bga.png)
p. 10LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
EV3 Motors
Large Motor
The Large Motor is a powerful “smart” motor. It has a built-in Rotation
Sensor with 1-degree resolution for precise control. The Large Motor
is optimized to be the driving base on your robots.
By using the Move Steering or Move Tank programming block
in theEV3 Software, the Large Motors will coordinate the action
simultaneously.
Medium Motor
The Medium Motor also includes a built-in Rotation Sensor (with
1-degree resolution), but it is smaller and lighter than the Large
Motor. That means it is able to respond more quickly than the Large
Motor.
The Medium Motor can be programmed to turn on or off, control its
power level, or to run for a specified amount of time or rotations.
Compare the Two Motors:
+ The Large Motor runs at 160–170 rpm, with a running torque of
20 Ncm and a stall torque of 40 Ncm (slower, but stronger).
+ The Medium Motor runs at 240–250 rpm, with a running torque
of 8 Ncm and a stall torque of 12 Ncm (faster, but less powerful).
+ Both motors are Auto ID supported.
For more information on using the Rotation Sensor in your
programming, see Using the Motor Rotation Sensor in the EV3
Software Help.
Large Motor
Medium Motor
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bgb.png)
p. 11LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Color Sensor
The Color Sensor is a digital sensor that can detect the color
or intensity of light that enters the small window on the face of
thesensor. This sensor can be used in three different modes: Color
Mode, Reflected Light Intensity Mode, and Ambient Light Intensity
Mode.
In Color Mode, the Color Sensor recognizes seven colors—black,
blue, green, yellow, red, white, and brown—plus No Color. This
ability to differentiate between colors means your robot might be
programmed to sort colored balls or blocks, speak the names of
colors as they are detected, or stop action when it sees red.
In Reflected Light Intensity Mode, the Color Sensor measures
theintensity of light reflected back from a red light–emitting lamp.
The sensor uses a scale of 0 (very dark) to 100 (very light). This
means your robot might be programmed to move around on a white
surface until a black line is detected, or to interpret a color-coded
identification card.
In Ambient Light Intensity Mode, the Color Sensor measures
thestrength of light that enters the window from its environment,
such as sunlight or the beam of a flashlight. The sensor uses a scale
of 0 (very dark) to 100 (very light). This means your robot might be
programmed to set off an alarm when the sun rises in the morning,
or stop action if the lights go out.
The sample rate of the Color Sensor is 1 kHz/sec.
For the best accuracy, when in Color Mode or Reflected Light
Intensity Mode, the sensor must be held at a right angle, close
to—but not touching—the surface it is examining.
For more information, see Using the Color Sensor in the EV3
Software Help.
EV3 Sensors
Color Mode
Reflected Light Intensity Mode
Ambient Light Intensity Mode
Color Sensor
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bgc.png)
p. 12LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Touch Sensor
The Touch Sensor is an analog sensor that can detect when
thesensor’s red button has been pressed and when it is released.
That means the Touch Sensor can be programmed to action using
three conditions—pressed, released, or bumped (both pressed and
released).
Using input from the Touch Sensor, a robot can be programmed
to see the world as a blind person might, reaching a hand out and
responding when it touches something (pressed).
You might build a robot with a Touch Sensor pressed against
thesurface beneath it. You might then program the robot to respond
(Stop!) when it is about to drive off the edge of a table (when
thesensor is released).
A fighting robot might be programmed to keep pushing forward
against its challenger until the challenger retreats. That pair of
actions—pressed, then released—would constitute bumped.
For more information, see Using the Touch Sensor in the EV3
Software Help.
EV3 Sensors
Touch Sensor
Released
Bumped
Pressed
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bgd.png)
70cm / 27inch
200cm / 79inch
70cm / 27inch
200cm / 79inch
p. 13LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Infrared Sensor and
Remote Infrared Beacon
The Infrared Sensor is a digital sensor that can detect infrared light
reflected from solid objects. It can also detect infrared light signals
sent from the Remote Infrared Beacon.
The Infrared Sensor can be used in three different modes: Proximity
Mode, Beacon Mode, and Remote Mode.
Proximity Mode
In Proximity Mode, the Infrared Sensor uses the light waves reflected
back from an object to estimate the distance between the sensor
and that object. It reports the distance using values between 0 (very
close) to 100 (far away), not as a specific number of centimeters or
inches. The sensor can detect objects up to 70 cm away, depending
on the size and shape of the object.
For more information, see Using the Infrared Sensor Proximity Mode
in the EV3 Help files.
Beacon Mode
Choose one of the Remote Infrared Beacon’s four channels from
the red Channel Selector. The Infrared Sensor will detect a beacon
signal matching the channel that you specify in your program up
to a distance of approximately 200 cm in the direction it is facing.
Once detected, the sensor can estimate the general direction
(heading) of and the distance (proximity) to the beacon. With this
information, you can program a robot to play hide-and-seek, using
the Remote Infrared Beacon as the target of its search. Theheading
will be a value of between -25 and 25, with 0 indicating that
thebeacon is directly in front of the Infrared Sensor. The proximity
will be values between 0 and 100.
For more information, see Using the Infrared Sensor Beacon Mode
in the EV3 Help files.
EV3 Sensors
Proximity Mode
Beacon Mode
Infrared Sensor
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bge.png)
p. 14LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
The Remote Infrared Beacon is a separate device that can be
handheld or built into another LEGO® model. It requires two AAA
alkaline batteries. To turn the Remote Infrared Beacon on, press
the big Beacon Mode button on the top of the device. A green LED
Indicator will turn on, indicating the device is active and transmitting
continuously. Another press on the Beacon Mode button will turn
it off (after one hour of inactivity, the beacon will automatically turn
itself off).
Remote Mode
You can also use the Remote Infrared Beacon as a remote control
for your robot. When in Remote Mode, the Infrared Sensor can detect
which button (or combination of buttons) on the beacon is pressed.
There are a total of eleven possible button combinations:
= No button (and Beacon Mode is off)
= Button 1
= Button 2
= Button 3
= Button 4
= Both Button 1 and Button 3
= Both Button 1 and Button 4
= Both Button 2 and Button 3
= Both Button 2 and Button 4
= Beacon Mode is on
= Both Button 1 and Button 2
= Both Button 3 and Button 4
For more information, see Using the Infrared Sensor Remote Mode
in the EV3 Help files.
EV3 Sensors
Remote Mode
Remote Infrared
Beacon
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bgf.png)
p. 15LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Connecting Sensors and Motors
In order to function, motors and sensors must be connected to
theEV3 Brick.
Using the flat black Connector Cables, link sensors to the EV3 Brick
using Input Ports 1, 2, 3, and 4.
If you create programs while the EV3 Brick is not connected to your
computer, the software will assign sensors to default ports. Those
default port assignments are:
+ Port 1: Touch Sensor
+ Port 2: No sensor
+ Port 3: Color Sensor
+ Port 4: Infrared Sensor
If the EV3 Brick is connected to your computer while you program,
the software will automatically identify which port is being used for
each sensor or motor.
Using the flat black Connector Cables, link motors to the EV3 Brick
using Output Ports A, B, C, and D.
As with the sensors, if the EV3 Brick is not connected when you are
writing a program, each motor will be assigned to a default port.
Default port assignments are:
+ Port A: Medium Motor
+ Port B and C: Two Large Motors
+ Port D: Large Motor
If the EV3 Brick is connected to the computer when you are
programming, the software will automatically assign the correct
port in your programs.
Connecting the EV3 Technology
Connecting Sensors
Connecting Motors
NOTE:
The software cannot
distinguish between two or
more identical sensors
or motors.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg10.png)
p. 16LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the EV3 Brick to
Your Computer
Connect the EV3 Brick to your computer by USB Cable or wirelessly
using either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
USB Cable
Using the USB Cable, plug the Mini-USB end into the EV3 Brick’s PC
Port (located next to Port D). Plug the USB end into your computer.
USB Cable connection
Connecting the EV3 Technology
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg11.png)
p. 17LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Wireless—Bluetooth
If your computer is not Bluetooth enabled, you will need a Bluetooth
USB dongle for your computer.
Making a Bluetooth Connection to the Computer
Before you can make a Bluetooth connection between the EV3
Brick and the computer running the EV3 Software, you will need to
enable Bluetooth on the EV3 Brick. Directions for this can be found
on page 27.
Once you have enabled Bluetooth on the EV3 Brick, it can now be
connected to the computer and EV3 Software.
First, confirm that the EV3 Brick is turned on.
Open a new or existing program in the EV3 Software
(see theEV3 Software chapter on page 31 for directions
on how to do this).
Go to the Hardware Page at the lower right of the screen—
expand thewindow if collapsed (learn more about
theHardware Page on page 38).
Click on the Available Bricks tab. If your EV3 Brick is not
already listed, click the Refresh button to locate the EV3 Brick
and check the Bluetooth box that will appear.
Accept the connection on your EV3 Brick manually,
then enter the passkey and press the Center button for OK.
The default is 1234. Repeat this in the EV3 Software.
The connection is now established and a “<>” symbol
is shown on the top left of the EV3 Brick Display
(next to the Bluetooth icon) to confirm the connection.
To disconnect the EV3 Brick from the computer, click on
theDisconnect button next to the Refresh button in the Hardware
Page.
More information about Bluetooth settings on the EV3 Brick can be
found on page 27.
Wireless connection
Connecting the EV3 Technology
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg12.png)
p. 18LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
NOTE:
The EV3 Brick only
supports the following
network encryption
modes: None and
WPA2.
Wireless—Wi-Fi
Your first step in connecting to Wi-Fi is to acquire a Wi-Fi USB
dongle. For a list of compatible dongles, go to the official LEGO
®
MINDSTORMS® website (www. LEGO.com/mindstorms).
To begin the setup, you must have access to a wireless network,
and know the network’s name and its password.
If the EV3 Software is open, close it and insert your Wi-Fi dongle
into the EV3 Brick using the USB Host Port.
Before you can connect the EV3 Brick to a network, you will need
to enable Wi-Fi on the EV3 Brick. Directions for this can be found
on page 29.
Settings screen
Connecting the EV3 Technology
NOTE:
Because of keyboard
limitations, the password for
the network must be made up
of numbers, capital letters, and
lowercase letters. You will not be
able to use some symbols, such
as the # sign, or letters and
symbols from non-Latin
alphabets.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg13.png)
p. 19LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the EV3 Brick to a network
After selecting Wi-Fi on the Settings screen, use the Up and Down
buttons to select Connections and press the Center button for OK.
The EV3 Brick will now search for and list available Wi-Fi networks.
Using the Up and Down buttons for navigation, find your network on
the list. If the EV3 Brick is not already connected to your network
(indicated by a check mark), select your network using the Center
button.
In the Network dialog box that appears, select Connect and press OK
with the Center button. You will now be asked to enter the encryption
type and the network password using the Left, Right, Up, and Down
buttons to navigate (upper and lower cases do matter here).
Once you have entered the correct password, press the check mark
for OK. You will now be connected to the network.
If the EV3 Brick does not find your network in its search, the network
may be hidden. To connect to a hidden network, select “Add hidden.”
You will then be asked to enter the name, encryption type, and
password for the hidden network you wish to add (upper and
lower cases do matter here). Once done, the EV3 Brick will be
connected to the hidden network and the network will be included
in thenetwork list.
NOTE:
Once you have
connected to a network
using its password, the EV3
Brick will remember the password
for future connections. Known
networks are indicated in
the list with an asterisk
“*” symbol.
Network list Connect to network
Network password Add hidden network
Connecting the EV3 Technology
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg14.png)
p. 20LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Making a Wi-Fi Connection from the Computer to the EV3 Brick
Using the USB Cable, connect the EV3 Brick to the computer.
Open an EV3 Software program. Access the Wireless Setup tool in
the Hardware Window (at the bottom right of the screen), or select
Wireless Setup from the Tools Menu.
The computer will display which networks it detects.
Select the network you want to connect to and click on “Connect” to
configure the connection. To add a network that is not broadcasting
its Network Name (SSID), click “Add.”
To edit the settings of a previously configured network, click Edit.
Click OK to establish a Wi-Fi connection. Once the connection is
established, you can unplug the USB Cable.
Wireless Setup tool
Connecting the EV3 Technology
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg15.png)
p. 21LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
The EV3 Brick is the control center for bringing your robots to life.
Using the Display and the Brick Buttons, the EV3 Brick Interface
contains four basic screens that give you access to an amazing array
of functions unique to the EV3 Brick. It can be something as simple
as starting and stopping a program, or something as complicated
as writing the program itself.
Run Recent
This screen will be blank until you begin to download and run
programs. The most recently run programs will be displayed on this
screen. The program at the top of the list that is selected by default
is the latest program run.
File Navigation
This screen is where you will access and manage all the files on
your EV3 Brick, including files stored on an SD card.
Files are organized in Project folders, which, in addition to the actual
program files, also contain sounds and images used in each project.
In the File Navigator, files can be moved or deleted. Programs
created using the Brick Program app are stored separately in
theBrkProg_SAVE folder.
EV3 Brick Interface
Run Recent screen
File Navigation screen
Open folder in File Navigation
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg16.png)
p. 22LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Brick Apps
The EV3 Brick comes with four brick applications preinstalled and
ready to use. In addition, you can also make your own apps in theEV3
Software. Once downloaded to the EV3 Brick, the homemade apps
will be displayed here.
The four preinstalled apps are the following:
Port View
On the first screen in the Port View, you will see, at a glance, which
ports have sensors or motors attached. Use the EV3 Brick Buttons
to navigate to one of the occupied ports and you will see thecurrent
readings returned from the sensor or motor. Attach some sensors and
motors and experiment with the different settings. Press theCenter
button to see or change the current settings for theattached motors
and sensors. Press the Back button to get back to the Brick Apps
main screen.
Motor Control
Control the forward and reverse movement of any motor connected
to one of the four output ports. There are two different modes. In
one mode, you will be able to control motors connected to Port A
(using the Up and Down buttons) and to Port D (using the Left and
Right buttons). In the other mode, it is motors connected to Port B
(using the Up and Down buttons) and Port C (using the Left and
Right buttons) that you control. Use the Center button to toggle
between the two modes. Press the Back button to get back to
theBrick Apps main screen.
EV3 Brick Interface
Brick Apps screen
Port View app
Motor Control app
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg17.png)
p. 23LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
IR Control
Control the forward and reverse motion of any motor connected
to one of the four output ports using the Remote Infrared Beacon
as remote control and the Infrared Sensor as receiver (the Infrared
Sensor must be connected to Port 4 in the EV3 Brick). There are
two different modes. In one mode, you will be using Channels 1 and
2 on theRemote Infrared Beacon. On Channel 1, you will be able
to control motors connected to Port B (using Buttons 1 and 2 on
the Remote Infrared Beacon) and to Port C (using Buttons 3 and 4
on the Remote Infrared Beacon). On Channel 2, you will be able to
control motors connected to Port A (using Buttons 1 and 2) and to
Port D (using Buttons 3 and 4). In theother mode, you can control
your motors in the exact same way by using Channels 3 and 4 on
the Remote Infrared Beacon instead. Use the Center button to toggle
between the two modes. Press theBack button to get back to the
Brick Apps main screen.
EV3 Brick Interface
IR Control app
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg18.png)
p. 24LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Brick Program
The EV3 Brick comes with an on-brick programming application
similar to the software installed on your computer. These instructions
provide you with the basic information you will need to get started.
Create a Program
Open up your Brick Program App.
The Start screen provides you with a Start and a Loop block that
are connected via a Sequence Wire. The vertical broken Add Block
line in the middle indicates that you can add more blocks to your
program. Press the Up button to add a new block from the Block
Palette.
In the Block Palette, you can choose which new block to add by
navigating using the Left, Right, Up, and Down buttons. Navigating
farther up, additional blocks will show. Navigating all the way down
will take you back to your program. Generally, there are two types
of blocks—Action and Wait. The Action Block Indicator is a small
arrow at the top right on the block. The Wait Block Indicator is a small
hourglass. In total, there are six different Action blocks and eleven
different Wait blocks to choose from.
When you find the block you want, navigate to it and press theCenter
button. You will be taken back to your program.
In your program, you can navigate between the blocks using the Left
and Right buttons. Press the Center button to change the settings of
the highlighted block (always the block in the middle of the screen)
or to add a new block when the Sequence Wire is highlighted and
the Add Block line is visible.
On each programming block, you can change one setting using
theUp and Down buttons. For example, on the Action Move Steering
block, you can change the direction of your robot’s path. When you
have chosen the setting you want, press the Center button.
EV3 Brick Interface
Start screen Block Palette
Full Block Palette
New block added Adjust block setting
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg19.png)
p. 25LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Delete Blocks
If you want to delete a block from a program, highlight the block you
want to delete and press the Up button to go to the Block Palette.
In the Block Palette, navigate to the trashcan on the far left and press
the Center button. The block is now deleted.
Run Program
To run your program, use the Left button to navigate to the Start
block at the very beginning of the program. Press the Center button
and your program will run.
Save and Open Program
To save your program, navigate to the Save icon on the far left of
your program. When clicking on the Save icon, you will be asked to
name your program or accept the default name. Once you are done,
click OK and your program is now saved in the BrkProg_SAVE folder
that can be accessed from the File Navigation screen (see page 21).
You can also open any existing EV3 Brick Program by clicking on
the Open icon located above the Save icon. Use the Up and Down
buttons to toggle between those two icons.
EV3 Brick Interface
Delete block
Run program
Save program
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1a.png)
p. 26LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Settings
This screen will enable you to see and adjust various general
settings on the EV3 Brick.
Volume
There may be occasions when you will want to adjust the volume
of the sound coming from the EV3 Brick Speaker. To change
thespeaker volume, go to the Settings screen. As the top menu,
Volume will already be highlighted. Press the Center button.
Use the Right and Left buttons to change the volume setting, which
can be intervals from 0% to 100%. Press the Center button to accept.
This will return you to the Settings screen.
Sleep
To change the amount of inactive time that passes before the EV3
Brick goes into Sleep Mode, go to the Settings screen and navigate
to the Sleep menu using the Down button. Press the Center button.
Use the Right and Left buttons to select a lower or higher time period,
which can be intervals from 2 minutes to never. Press theCenter
button to accept. This will return you to the Settings screen.
EV3 Brick Interface
Settings screen
Adjust volume
Adjust sleep
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1b.png)
p. 27LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Bluetooth
This is where Bluetooth is enabled on the EV3 Brick, and where you
can choose some specific privacy and Apple iOS settings. Here
you can also connect to other Bluetooth devices such as another
EV3 Brick.
When you select Bluetooth on the Settings page, there are four
options presented—Connections, Visibility, Bluetooth, and iPhone/
iPad/iPod. To go back to the main Settings screen, press theDown
button until the check mark at the bottom of the screen is highlighted,
then press the Center button for OK.
Bluetooth
It is here that you enable standard Bluetooth on the EV3 Brick. Using
the Up and Down buttons, select the word “Bluetooth,” then press
theCenter button for OK. A check mark will appear in the Bluetooth
box. Bluetooth is now enabled on your EV3 Brick, and a Bluetooth
icon will be shown in the top left of the EV3 Brick Display.
Note: This setting will not allow you to connect with an iOS device. For
this, you will need to select the iPhone/iPad/iPod setting (see below)!
To disable Bluetooth, repeat the above procedure, this time
unchecking the Bluetooth box.
iPhone/iPad/iPod
Select this setting only if you specifically want your EV3 Brick to
connect with Apple iOS devices—iPhones, iPads, and iPods—using
Bluetooth (make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your iOS device).
Note: Using this setting will not allow you to communicate with other
Bluetooth devices, including computers and other EV3 Bricks!
You cannot choose to enable both standard Bluetooth and Bluetooth
communication for Apple iOS devices at the same time.
To enable and disable Bluetooth communication for iOS devices, use
the Up and Down buttons to select “iPhone/iPad/iPod,” then press
the Center button for OK.
EV3 Brick Interface
Enable Bluetooth
NOTE:
Your EV3 Brick will
run more efficiently if you
disable theBluetooth
setting when it is
not in use.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1c.png)
p. 28LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
Connections
This option allows you to discover and choose other available
Bluetooth devices (make sure Bluetooth is enabled). If you click
on “Connections,” you will be taken to a Favorites screen, where
thedevices you trust are displayed and identified with a check mark.
No passkeys are needed for your trusted devices. Using the check
boxes, you can manage which devices you wish to have as Favorites.
If you then click on “Search,” the EV3 Brick will scan the area for all
detectable Bluetooth-emitting devices—including other EV3 Bricks.
Your favorite devices will be shown with an asterisk “*” symbol.
Use the Up and Down buttons to select the device on the list you
wish to connect to. Press the Center button for OK. If you choose to
connect to a device not yet marked as a Favorite, you will be asked
to enter the passkey to establish the connection. Once theother
device verifies the passkey, you are automatically connected to
thedevice.
Visibility
If the Visibility setting is selected, other Bluetooth devices (including
other EV3 Bricks) will be able to discover and connect to your EV3
Brick. If Visibility is unchecked, the EV3 Brick will not respond to
search commands from other Bluetooth devices.
EV3 Brick Interface
Favorites list
Device list
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1d.png)
p. 29LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
TECHNOLOGY
EV3 Brick Interface
Wi-Fi
This is where you enable Wi-Fi communication on the EV3 Brick and
connect to a wireless network. After selecting Wi-Fi on the Settings
screen, use the Up and Down buttons to select the word “WiFi” and
press the Center button for OK. A check mark will appear in the WiFi
box. Wi-Fi is now enabled on your EV3 Brick, and a Wi-Fi icon will be
shown in the top left of the EV3 Brick Display.
To go back to the main Settings screen, press the Down button until
the check mark at the bottom of the screen is highlighted, then press
the Center button for OK.
For information on how to connect your EV3 Brick to a wireless
network, see the Connecting the EV3 Brick to Your Computer
section on page 18.
Brick Info
When you need to know the current technical specifications of your
EV3 Brick, such as hardware and firmware version and EV3 Brick OS
build, this is where you will find that information. This is also where
you can find out how much free memory you have available.
Brick Info
Enable Wi-Fi
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1e.png)
p. 30LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
While building robots is fun, the heart of robotics is bringing
them to life—making them move and accomplish tasks. You will
find theLEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3 Software to be an easy, intuitive,
and icon-based programming interface.
Installing the Software
Once you have confirmed that your computer meets the minimum
system requirements, you are ready to install the software. Close all
other programs, then double-click on the installation file in the EV3
Software application folder. Installation will now begin.
Minimum
System
Requirements
Operating Systems:
+Windows: Windows XP (32 bit); Vista (32/64 bit),
excluding Starter Edition; Windows 7 (32/64 bit);
and Windows 8 desktop mode, excluding Starter Edition
—all with the latest service packs
+Macintosh: MacOS X v.10.6, 10.7, and 10.8 (Intel only)
—with thelatest service packs
System Requirements:
+2 GHz processor or better
+2 GB of RAM or more
+2 GB of available hard disk space
+XGA display (1024*768)
+1 available USB port
LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3 does not
support tablets or certain netbooks
with hardware that does not meet
the above requirements.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg1f.png)
p. 31LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Every time you open the EV3 Software, you will automatically start
out in theLobby area. The Lobby makes it easy to locate and work
with thesoftware and gives you access to everything you need.
In the Lobby you will find the following options and resources:
Lobby Tab—This button always returns you to the Lobby.
Add Project—Here you add a new project so that you can start
programming your own robot.
Robot Missions—Here you can get started with building and
programming the five main models.
Open Recent—Get easy access to the latest projects you
have worked with.
Quick Start—Support resources such as short introduction
videos, EV3 User Guide, and Software Help.
News—Small stories and news splashes from
LEGO.com/mindstorms (Internet connection is required).
More Robots—Access to building and programming more
models (Internet connection is required).
Lobby
Lobby overview
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg20.png)
p. 32LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
When you open a new program, it will automatically create a project
folder file. All programs, images, sounds, videos, instructions, and
other assets that are used within a project will automatically be
stored in this project folder. This makes it easy to store your project
and share it with others.
Each project will be displayed in the form of a tab at the top of the
screen. Underneath, you will see tabs for the programs that belong
to the selected project. You can add a new project or program by
clicking on the+button to the right of the other tabs. Clicking on
an X will close the tab.
Project Properties Page
If you click on the tab with the wrench to the far left of the program
tabs, you will be taken to the Project Properties page. This page
gives you an orderly display of the project that is currently selected,
including all programs, images, sound, and other assets. Here you
can describe your project with text, images, and video that will
determine how the project shows up in the Lobby.
Project Properties and Structure
Project and Program tabs
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg21.png)
p. 33LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Project Properties displayed include:
Project Description—Give your project a title, describe it,
and insert any images and video you would like to appear
in theLobby when theproject is previewed.
Project Content Overview—Here you will find all assets
included in the project: for example, programs, images,
sounds, and My Blocks.
Daisy Chain Mode—This check box enables the Daisy Chain
Mode, so you can program up to four connected EV3 Bricks.
Share—Here you can easily share your project on
LEGO.com/mindstorms (Internet connection is required).
Project Properties and Structure
Project Properties page
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg22.png)
p. 34LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
In the EV3 Software Lobby area, five cool robots are featured:
TRACK3R, SPIK3R, EV3RSTORM, R3PTAR, and GRIPP3R. These
robots have been created by LEGO
®
designers to demonstrate some
of the ways you can build and program with LEGO® MINDSTORMS®
EV3. Click on any of therobots and you will be taken to the Mission
Overview of that particular robot. Missions are designed to take you
through the essentials of programming and getting to know the EV3
hardware and building system.
Each Mission helps you build and program a part of the robot. You
start with the first Mission and then move on to the next once it is
completed. When you have completed all the Missions, therobot
is built and ready to receive your commands. All Missions are
structured in four steps:
+ Objective
+ Create
+ Command
+ Go!
Robot Missions
Robot Missions
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg23.png)
p. 35LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Program your robot in the intuitive icon-based programming
interface. Drag and drop the actions that you want into the
programming window and adjust them to suit your robot’s behavior.
The EV3 Programming interface consists of
the following main areas:
Programming Canvas—Lay out your program here.
Programming Palettes—Find the building blocks for your
program here.
Hardware Page—Establish and manage your communication
with theEV3 Brick here and see what motors and sensors are
connected where. This is also where you download programs
to the EV3 Brick.
Content Editor—A digital workbook integrated into the software.
Get instructions or document your project using text, images,
and videos.
Programming Toolbar—Find basic tools for working with your
program here.
Programming
Programming interface
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg24.png)
p. 36LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Programming Blocks and Palettes
All the programming blocks that are used for controlling your
robot are located in Programming Palettes at the bottom of the
Programming interface underneath the Programming Canvas.
TheProgramming blocks are divided into categories according to
type and nature, making it easy to find the block you need.
To learn more about the EV3 Programming interface and see
how you can get started with your first program, see the Getting
Started and Software Overview videos in the Quick Start section
of theLobby.
You can also find more information about how to program in theEV3
Software Help.
Action Blocks
(In order from left to right)
+ Medium Motor
+ Large Motor
+ Move Steering
+ Move Tank
+ Display
+ Sound
+ Brick Status Light
Flow Blocks
(In order from left to right)
+ Start
+ Wait
+ Loop
+ Switch
+ Loop Interrupt
Sensor Blocks
(In order from left to right)
+ Brick Buttons
+ Color Sensor
+ Infrared Sensor
+ Motor Rotation
+ Timer
+ Touch Sensor
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg25.png)
p. 37LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Programming Blocks and Palettes
Data Blocks
(In order from left to right)
+ Variable
+ Constant
+ Array Operations
+ Logic Operations
+ Math
+ Round
+ Compare
+ Range
+ Te x t
+ Random
Advanced Blocks
(In order from left to right)
+ File Access
+ Messaging
+ Bluetooth Connection
+ Keep Awake
+ Raw Sensor Value
+ Unregulated Motor
+ Invert Motor
+ Stop Program
My Blocks
When you are repeatedly
using the same segment of
aprogram in many programs,
that is a good time to create
a My Block. Once your My
Block is created, you can
simply insert that single block
into future programs within
the same project.
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg26.png)
p. 38LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
The Hardware Page provides a range of information about your
EV3 Brick. It is always located in the lower right-hand corner when
working with programs and can be collapsed when needed using
the Expand/Collapse tab. Even when collapsed, the Hardware Page
Controller will be visible, allowing you to download your program
or experiment.
The different Hardware Page Controller buttons have
the following functionality:
Download—Downloads the program to the EV3 Brick.
Download and Run—Downloads the program to the EV3 Brick
and runs it immediately.
Download and Run Selected—Downloads only the highlighted
blocks to the EV3 Brick and runs them immediately.
The EV3 text in the small window at the top will turn red when an
EV3 Brick is connected to your computer.
Hardware Page
Hardware Page Controller
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg27.png)
p. 39LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Brick Information
The Brick Information tab displays important information about
theEV3 Brick that is currently connected, such as EV3 Brick name,
battery level, firmware version, connection type, and memory bar. It
also gives you access to the Memory Browser and Wireless Setup
tools.
Port View
The Port View tab displays information about the sensors and motors
connected to the EV3 Brick. When your EV3 Brick is connected to
thecomputer, this information is automatically identified and you will
be able to see the live values. If your EV3 Brick is not connected,
you can still set up the Port View tab manually. Select a port, then
select the appropriate sensor or motor from the list.
Available Bricks
The Available Bricks tab shows the EV3 Bricks that are currently
available for connection. You are able to choose which EV3 Brick
you want to connect to and the type of communication. Also, you
can disconnect an existing EV3 Brick connection.
You can find more information about how to use the Hardware Page
in theEV3 Software Help.
Hardware Page
Brick Information tab
Port View tab
Available Bricks tab
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg28.png)
p. 40LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
The Content Editor offers a convenient way for users to document
thepurpose, process, and analysis of their projects. You can include
text, images, videos, sound effects, and even building instructions.
Content Editor is also the place where already-made content—for
example, theRobot Missions—are displayed and used.
Each page can be customized with different layouts and can
automatically perform a range of actions, such as opening specific
programs or highlighting a particular programming block.
The Content Editor is located in the top right corner of the EV3
Software and is available whenever you are working on a project. You
open the Content Editor using the large button with the book icon.
Once the Content Editor is open, you will be able to see whatever
content has been made for a project or program.
The Content Editor consists of the following main areas
and features:
Open/Close Content Editor—Here you open and close
theContent Editor.
Edit/View Mode—Allows you to view or edit your pages.
Page Navigation—Go to the next or previous page.
Page Title—Add a title to your page.
Page Area—This is where the main content is shown
and edited.
Icons—Select what content type you wish to add to
the page area.
Page Thumbnails—Go to a specific page using the thumbnail
images.
Add/Delete Page—When adding a page, you get to choose
from fourteen different templates.
Page Setup—Make special settings for each page, such as
format, page action, and navigation to the next page.
You can find more information about how to use the Content Editor
in the EV3 Software Help.
Content Editor
Content Editor
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg29.png)
p. 41LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
In the top menu bar of the EV3 Software you will find a number of
small Tools that can add extra functionality and support to your EV3
Software experience.
You can learn more about the Tools in the EV3 Software Help.
Sound Editor
Create your own sound effects or customize one from our selection
of official EV3 Sound files. The sounds can then be used for
programming your robot by use of the Sound Programming Block.
Image Editor
Make creative use of the EV3 Brick Display by designing original
images or customizing existing images. The images can then
be used for programming your robot by the use of the Display
Programming Block.
My Block Builder
Sometimes you make a great miniprogram that you want to use
again in another project or program. My Block Builder helps you take
this miniprogram and create a unique My Block where you define
the name, icon, and parameters that are relevant for you. My Blocks
will automatically be archived in the My Block Programming Palette.
Firmware Update
Periodically, updated firmware will become available for your EV3
Brick. We recommend that you install new versions as they become
available. This tool will tell you if there is a new firmware version
available and help you update it on your EV3 Brick.
Wireless Setup
In case you wish your EV3 Software to communicate with your EV3
Brick using Wi-Fi, this tool will help set up the wireless connection.
To do so, you will need to acquire a Wi-Fi USB dongle for the EV3
Brick and enable Wi-Fi communication on the EV3 Brick.
Block Import
Add new blocks to your Programming Palettes. This can be
new LEGO
®
Programming Blocks or blocks developed by other
manufacturers: for example, in relation to a third-party sensor. These
Blocks first need to be downloaded to your computer—then you can
import them into your EV3 Software using this tool.
Tools
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2a.png)
p. 42LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
EV3
SOFTWARE
Memory Browser
It is easy to lose track of what you have stored on your EV3 Brick.
The Memory Browser provides an overview of memory use on your
EV3 Brick (including an SD card if you have it inserted). You can use
the Memory Browser to transfer programs, sounds, graphics, and
other files between your EV3 Brick and a computer, and copy and
delete files that are already on your EV3 Brick.
Download as App
Advanced users may enjoy the challenge of creating applications
for generic tasks on the EV3 Brick. An EV3 Brick app is made as
anormal EV3 program, but when downloaded to the EV3 Brick
using this tool, it will show up as a new app in the Brick Apps screen,
together with the default apps such as Brick Programming and Port
View.
Import Brick Program
This tool will enable you to import a program made in the Brick
Program App on the EV3 Brick to the EV3 Software programming
environment. Your program can then be further refined using the full
functionality of the EV3 Software.
Tools
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2b.png)
p. 43LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
TROUBLE-
SHOOTING
Under Help at the top menu bar of the EV3 Software, you will find
access to the Help section. The EV3 Help section is a comprehensive
and structured resource that provides helpful information about and
guidance with all of the EV3 Software, including how to best use and
program with sensors and motors. This is the first place to look if
you need help or more information on how to use the EV3 Software.
Software Updates
Under Help at the top menu bar of the EV3 Software, you can enable
the EV3 Software to automatically check for software updates. By
clicking Check for Software Updates, a check mark will appear and
the software will regularly check for software updates (this requires
an Internet connection). If a relevant update is available, you will be
notified by the software. If you wish to install this software update,
you will be taken to a website where you can download the update
file. Once downloaded, you can install the update. Make sure you
have closed down your EV3 Software during installation.
EV3 Software Help
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2c.png)
p. 44LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
TROUBLE-
SHOOTING
NOTE:
Updating firmware will
delete all existing files and
projects in theEV3
Brick memory!
Firmware is the software that is inside the EV3 Brick. Without its
firmware, the EV3 Brick will not work. Occasionally, the LEGO Group
may release new versions of the firmware that add enhanced
functions or fix software bugs.
To update the firmware, you need a USB connection from your
computer to your EV3 Brick. Your computer must also be connected
to the Internet.
Turn your EV3 Brick on and connect it to your computer.
Select Firmware Update in the Tools menu.
Click the Check button to see if new firmware updates are
available.
Select the most recent firmware version from the Available
firmware files.
If you want to use a firmware version located on your computer
instead, use the Browse button to find and select the correct
firmware file.
Click the Download button to download the new firmware to
your EV3 Brick. The progress bars at the bottom of theFirmware
Update dialog box will show you how the firmware update is
proceeding. Once complete, your EV3 Brick will restart itself.
If for some reason your EV3 Brick stops working during the firmware
update process, you will need to manually update the firmware by
doing the following (the EV3 Brick still needs a USB connection to
your computer):
Hold down the Back, Center, and Right buttons on the EV3 Brick.
When the EV3 Brick restarts, release the Back button.
When the screen says “Updating,” release the Center and Right
buttons and click the Download button in the Firmware Update
tool. The firmware will be downloaded to your EV3 Brick, which
will restart itself.
If the manual firmware update does not make your EV3 Brick work
the first time, repeat the manual update process.
Firmware Update
Firmware Update tool
NOTE:
Check your EV3 Brick
batteries before repeating
manual firmware updates.
The problem may simply
be due to worn-down
batteries!
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2d.png)
p. 45LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
TROUBLE-
SHOOTING
If your EV3 Brick suddenly stops working and cannot be shut down
through the normal process, you will need to reset your EV3 Brick.
Resetting the EV3 Brick does not delete existing files and projects
from previous sessions in the EV3 Brick memory. Files and projects
from the existing session will be lost.
Make sure that the EV3 Brick is turned on.
Hold down the Back, Center, and Left buttons on the EV3 Brick.
When the screen goes blank, release the Back button.
When the screen says “Starting,” release the Center and Left
buttons.
Resetting the EV3 Brick
NOTE:
Check your EV3 Brick
batteries before reinstalling
firmware. Problems may
simply be due to worn-
down batteries!
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2e.png)
p. 46LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Sound File List
Animals Colors
Catpurr Black
Dogbark Blue
Dogbark Brown
Doggrowl Green
Dogsniff Red
Dogwhine White
Elephantcall Yellow
Insectbuzz
Insectbuzz
Insectchirp
Snakehiss
Snakerattle
T-rexroar
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg2f.png)
p. 47LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Sound File List
Communication Expressions
Bravo Boing
EV Boo
Fantastic Cheering
Gameover Crunching
Go
Goodjob
Good
Crying
Fanfare
Goodbye Kungfu
Hello Laughing
Hi Laughing
LEGO Thankyou Magicwand
MINDSTORMS Yes
Morning
No
Ouch
Shouting
Okay Smack
Okey-dokey Sneezing
Sorry Snoring
Uh-oh
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg30.png)
p. 48LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Sound File List
Information Mechanical
Activate Airrelease
Analyze Airbrake
Backwards Backingalert
Color Blip
Detected
Down
Erroralarm
Blip
Blip
Error Blip
Flashing Horn
Forward Horn
Left Turn Laser
Object Up
Right
Searching
Motoridle
Motorstart
Start Motorstop
Stop Ratchet
Touch Sonar
Ticktack
Walk
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg31.png)
p. 49LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Sound File List
Movements Numbers
Arm Eight
Arm Five
Arm Four
Arm Nine
Dropload
Liftload
Servo One
Servo Seven
Servo Six
Servo Speeding Ten
Slideload
Snap
Speeddown Three
Speedidle Two
Speedup Zero
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg32.png)
p. 50LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Sound File List
System
Click
Powerdown
Ready
Startup
Confirm
Connect
Download
Generalalert
Overpower
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg33.png)
p. 51LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Image File List
Expressions
Bigsmile
Heartlarge
Heartsmall
Mouthopen
Mouthshut
Mouthopen
Mouthshut ZZZ
Sad
Sick
Smile
Swearing
Talking
Wink
Disappointed
Angry Dizzy
Awake Down
Blackeye Evil
Bottomleft Hurt
Bottomright Knockedout
Crazy Love
Crazy
Up
Sleeping
Pinchright
TearMiddleleft
Winking
Middleright
TiredleftNeutral
TiredmiddleNuclear
TiredrightPinchleft
ToxicPinchmiddle
Eyes
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg34.png)
p. 52LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Image File List
INFORMATION
Accept
Backward
Decline
Forward
Left
Nogo
Questionmark
Right
Stop
Stop
Thumbsdown
Thumbsup
Warning
Colorsensor
EVicon
EV
Gyrosensor
IRbeacon
IRsensor
Largemotor
USsensor
LEGO
Mediummotor
MINDSTORMS
Soundsensor
Tempsensor
Touchsensor
LEGO
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg35.png)
ProgressProgress
p. 53LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Image File List
DialBar
DialBar
DialBar
DotsBar
DotsBar
DotsDial
DotsDial Timer
Hourglass Timer
Hourglass Waterlevel
Hourglass Waterlevel
Timer Waterlevel
Timer Waterlevel
Timer
Objects
Bomb
Boom
Fire
Flowers
Forest
Lightoff
Lighton
Lightning
Night
Pirate
Snow
Target
Objects
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg36.png)
p. 54LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Image File List
System
Accept
Accept
Alert
Box
Decline
Decline
Dotempty
Slider
Slider
Dotfull
SliderEVsmall
SliderBusy
SliderBusy
SliderPlay
SliderSlider
Slider
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg37.png)
p. 55LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Images
Accept
Pinchright
Pirate
Neutral
Hurt
Decline
Questionmark
Awake
Warning
Stop
Boom
EVicon
Brick Program App—Assets List
Sounds
Hello
Fanfare
Start
Goodbye
Erroralarm
Stop
Object
Blip
Snap
Ouch
Arm
Laser
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg38.png)
x
p. 56LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
Element List
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg39.png)
p. 57LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg3a.png)
5,5
p. 58LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
![](/img.php?id=3587077&img=bg3b.png)
cm/in
cm/in
cm/in
p. 59LEGO.com/mindstorms
LEGOtheLEGOlogoMINDSTORMSandtheMINDSTORMSlogoaretrademarksofthe/
sontdesmarquesdecommercede/sonmarcasregistradasdeLEGOGroup©TheLEGOGroup
USEFUL
INFORMATION
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
iPad, iPhone and iPod touch are
trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in
the U.S. and other countries.
iPod Touch (4th gen.)
iPhone 4
iPhone 4S
iPad 1
iPad 2
iPad 3 (3rd gen.)