Unable to upload Arduino code

[cosmofed]

1. Checked all cabling. The following was tried using only power from USB connection to computer.
2. Uno board is displaying a steady green LED and a blinking amber LED.
3. Motor shield board is displaying a steady red LED.
4. There is no blue LED from the WIFI board.
5. The line tracking LED's are lit when I move my hand under the sensor.
6. The program compiles without any errors.
7. After uploading, see attachment for error codes.

Thank you

[kalqlate]

Sadly, if you look at topic Q7 in the TroubleShooting.md file of the APP_Controller (https://github.com/UCTRONICS/WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car/blob/master/APP_Controller/TroubleShooting.md), when this error occurs, you'll see where they state:

"3. The serial port RX/TX on the development board has other connections or reuse. Before uploading our code , you should disconnect the wifi module because of the RX/TX reuse."

This, for now, means that quick, iterative coding of the car can't be done. Each time you want to upload new code, you must unplug battery power, then pry the small top daughter-board from the system, upload your code (which it will complete successfully now), reinsert the daughter-board, reconnect batter power, reset your phone's WiFi, then FINALLY, test as desired.

Hopefully, Uctronics will work out a better solution. This car is a great platform for all types of coding experiments. Without quick, iterative code-and-test, it limits productivity and spoils the fun. :(

[cosmofed]

HI, Thank you for your reply. I am sorry I didn't catch the Q7 solution. Per your instructions, I am assuming I should remove the "wifi adapter board" and not the entire "wifi core board" (which includes the wifi adapter board. I think you're calling this the daughter board). After uploading the compiled code dated 2/4/18, I get these error messages:

Arduino: 1.8.5 (Windows 8.1), Board: "Arduino/Genuino Uno"

Sketch uses 13674 bytes (42%) of program storage space. Maximum is 32256 bytes. Global variables use 715 bytes (34%) of dynamic memory, leaving 1333 bytes for local variables. Maximum is 2048 bytes. avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 1 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 2 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 3 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 4 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 5 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 6 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 7 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 8 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 9 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 10 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xd3

Invalid library found in C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car: C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car Invalid library found in C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car: C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car

I doubled checked that I have the "WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car" folder in the Arduino library. Is it possible I have a bad Uno board? Please advise. Thanking you in advance, Cosmo

On January 23, 2018 at 10:06 PM kalqlate notifications@github.com wrote:

Sadly, if you look at topic Q7 in the troubleshooting.md file of the APP_Controller, when this error occurs, you'll see where they state:

"3. The serial port RX/TX on the development board has other connections or reuse.
Before uploading our code , you should disconnect the wifi module because of the RX/TX reuse."

This, for now, means that quick, iterative coding of the car can't be done. Each time you want to upload new code, you must unplug battery power, then pry the small top daughter-board from the system, upload your code (which it will complete successfully now), reinsert the daughter-board, reconnect batter power, reset your phone's WiFi, then FINALLY, test as desired.

Hopefully, Uctronics will work out a better solution. This car is a great platform for all types of coding experiments. Without quick, iterative code-and-test, it limits productivity and spoils the fun. :(

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[kalqlate]

MUCH apologies! The entire WiFi system must be removed. That is, pry off the mid-board assembly that includes the smaller board. I should've said "the board assembly with the antenna". Yes, you are correct: the WiFi core board.

After removing, try again.

If you are still getting the "invalid library found..." errors, try copying the .ino file in the "example" to a new folder in your documents folder, reload the code from there, compile and attempt to load.

Please let me know your results. 😊

Kalqlate

[kalqlate]

To be clear, your are to copy the .ino to something like...

C:\Users[replace with windows login name here]\Documents\Arduino\WIFI_Camera_Robot_Car

[kalqlate]

Haha... one more thing...

I assume you have, but just checking.

Be sure to include the WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car library by ...

Sketch-->Include Library-->(scroll to and select WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car)

[cosmofed]

Hello Kalqlate, Thank you for your prompt reply. Here is what I did:

1. Copied the 2/4/18 version of the WIFI_Camera_Robot_Car.ino file into a folder called WIFI_Camera_Robot_Car under my Documents/Arduino directory.
2. Copied the RobotCar folder from the GITHUB download into the C:/Local Disk/Program Files (x86)/Arduino/libraries location. In that folder I see the "example" folder and three other files (keywords.txt, UCMotor.cpp,UCMotor.h)
3. When I remove the wifi adapter module and invoked the .ino file, it compiles correctly. However when I upload it, it get these error messages:

Arduino: 1.8.5 (Windows 8.1), Board: "Arduino/Genuino Uno"

Sketch uses 13674 bytes (42%) of program storage space. Maximum is 32256 bytes. Global variables use 715 bytes (34%) of dynamic memory, leaving 1333 bytes for local variables. Maximum is 2048 bytes. avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 1 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 2 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 3 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 4 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 5 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 6 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 7 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 8 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 9 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1 avrdude: stk500_recv(): programmer is not responding avrdude: stk500_getsync() attempt 10 of 10: not in sync: resp=0xb1

Problem uploading to board. See http://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/Troubleshooting#upload for suggestions. Invalid library found in C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car: C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car Invalid library found in C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car: C:\Program Files (x86)\Arduino\libraries\WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car

I have noticed something which may point towards a problem with the UNO. From the Arduino IDE, under TOOLS, Port, I only see COMM1. No other choices. That is the port I am using. But there not be a option such as COMX(Arduino/Genuino Uno) like is shown on page 47 of your "user guide.pdf"? Just a thought.

Thank you, Cosmo

On March 1, 2018 at 1:08 AM kalqlate notifications@github.com wrote:

MUCH apologies! The entire WiFi system must be removed. That is, pry off the mid-board assembly that includes the smaller board. I should've said "the board assembly with the antenna". Yes, you are correct: the WiFi core board.

After removing, try again.

If you are still getting the "invalid library found..." errors, try copying the .ino file in the "example" to a new folder in your documents folder, reload the code from there, compile and attempt to load.

Please let me know your results. 😊

Kalqlate

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[kalqlate]

Hi, Cosmo.

Where you state "...page 47 of your "user guide.pdf", just to clarify, I'm just a customer like you; I don't work for the company.

For the selection "COMX(Arduino/Genuino Uno): This probably goes without saying, but assure the following:

a) you have a USB-to-Printer type cable plugged into a USB port on your computer, and the other end into the robot car, b) for Tools-->Board, you should have "Arduino/Genuino Uno" selected, c) for Tools-->Port, you should now see or be able to select "COMX (Arduino/Genuino Uno)", where X is the USB port number your car is connected to.

If now you do not see or are able to select the "COMX (Arduino/Genuino Uno)", try a different USB-to-Printer cable. After doing that, if it still doesn't work, try a different port on your computer. If it still fails, I'm sorry, but I don't know how to diagnose further. It's unfortunate that the manufacturer isn't monitoring and trying to help out. Mention this in your review on Amazon or wherever you purchased it, and knock them down a star or two on your review on Amazon for this, and I'm sure they'll make a good attempt to be more attentive to the needs of their customers.

You're welcome, Kalqlate

[cosmofed]

Hi Kalqlate, Thanks for your help. I thought you were from the company. My apologies and compliments because you are very knowledgeable. I assume you have the same product. Did you get it working with all the supplemental support on github? I know a Linda from the factory by email. She tells me there is a new instruction update which they are working on. She wanted me to give it a look over and make suggestions. I assume it's probably the old instructions with the new github materials included. Let me know if you need it. Frankly I think they need all the input they can get from users. Although I must admit the documentation from this product is so much better than some of their older products. Good to see they are learning. Cosmo

On March 3, 2018 at 12:47 AM kalqlate notifications@github.com wrote:

Hi, Cosmo.

Where you state "...page 47 of your "user guide.pdf", just to clarify, I'm just a customer like you; I don't work for the company.

For the selection "COMX(Arduino/Genuino Uno): This probably goes without saying, but assure the following:

a) you have a USB-to-Printer type cable plugged into a USB port on your computer, and the other end into the robot car,
b) for Tools-->Board, you should have "Arduino/Genuino Uno" selected,
c) for Tools-->Port, you should now see or be able to select "COMX (Arduino/Genuino Uno)", where X is the USB port number your car is connected to.

If now you do not see or are able to select the "COMX (Arduino/Genuino Uno)", try a different USB-to-Printer cable. After doing that, if it still doesn't work, try a different port on your computer. If it still fails, I'm sorry, but I don't know how to diagnose further. It's unfortunate that the manufacturer isn't monitoring and trying to help out. Mention this in your review on Amazon or wherever you purchased it, and knock them down a star or two on your review on Amazon for this, and I'm sure they'll make a good attempt to be more attentive to the needs of their customers.

You're welcome,
Kalqlate

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[kalqlate]

Hi, Cosmo.

Yes. After removing the WiFi subsystem, I was able to compile, upload, reinstall the WiFi subsystem, connect the Smart Car app on my smartphone to the Smart Car WiFi, and control the car successfully, including receiving and controlling the video signal. This car is actually VERY COOL! Nice, zippy, and responsive. Once a few kinks get worked out, I can see it being a favorite for kids, roboticists, and experimenters. Some of the issues I'd like to see addressed:

1) The need to remove the WiFi subsystem. This limits the iterative code/test progression for using the robot car as a development platform for adding more sensors, automation and SLAM (simultaneous location and mapping).

2) Easy video eavesdropping by anyone in the vicinity. The current WiFi setup allows anyone to download the phone app and see everything your car sees. And you may not even need that. The WiFi broadcast on the car is completely open, not locked in any way. Anyone looking at the lists of available WiFi connections will see UCTRONICS listed boldly and showing no lock. Out of curiosity, they'll do a Google search, find the software, install and run, voila!... instant spying on the owner and family of the robot car. This is completely unacceptable! AT MINIMUM, at the factory, each car should be programmed with a random WiFi password that is delivered only with that car and shown with a label in the instructions for the buyer. If lost, a lookup by car serial number should be possible. A BETTER solution: expose WiFi setup code in the robot car code that allows the user to set the SSID and password of the WiFi broadcast from the car and set whether or not the SSID is broadcast or not.

3) The remote control app for the phone is not open source. Why not? The company implies that you should simply trust their code and willingly side load it without any real assurances that it doesn't contain instructions for nefarious deeds in addition to the advertised function. If it is legit, why not open source it and/or submit it to the Play Store for comfortable and trusted download and install. This will limit the buy-in by hacking-aware people until this is open sourced, just like the code running on the car. The WiFi code on the car should be open source as well. By open sourcing the phone app, it would allow new functionality to be added to the current controls as well as for control for added sensors. Regarding the philosophy of open sourcing everything: the company shouldn't view it as "giving away" their costly development. Instead, they should view it as the BEST way to engender trust and attract buyers--the market for OPEN SOURCE robotics development platforms is blazing hot! With the nice of this car as it is, if were all open source and fully advertised and supported as an open source development platform, it would fly off the shelves.

Hopefully, the company will pick up these issues via this post. For certainty, Cosmo, can you share Linda's email address with me, so I can deliver these concerns and suggestions to them directly?

How have you progressed? Is your car working now?

Kalqlate

[cosmofed]

Hi Kalqlate, Thanks for your input and I will send your recommendations to Linda. I have not seen the updated instructions yet. I will also send you the instructions. I resolved my port issue. A few weeks ago I ran a new program which was suppose to check and update all my machine's drivers. Apparently it deleted the Arduino driver. So I was back in business after I reloaded the driver. After uploading their most recent code, the only issues I am having is that my cam servo is not responding in the Y axis. And, the motor control arrows on the app are reverse to how the car moves. I'm sure these are minor and I will look into them. But I agree with you, it's pretty niffty. Great improvement over their earlier 2 wheel simpler product.

On March 6, 2018 at 5:23 PM kalqlate notifications@github.com wrote:

Hi, Cosmo.

Yes. After removing the WiFi subsystem, I was able to compile, upload, reinstall the WiFi subsystem, connect the Smart Car app on my smartphone to the Smart Car WiFi, and control the car successfully, including receiving and controlling the video signal. This car is actually VERY COOL! Nice, zippy, and responsive. Once a few kinks get worked out, I can see it being a favorite for kids, roboticists, and experimenters. Some of the issues I'd like to see addressed:

   1. The need to remove the WiFi subsystem. This limits the iterative code/test progression for using the robot car as a development platform for adding more sensors, automation and SLAM (simultaneous location and mapping).

   2. Easy video eavesdropping by anyone in the vicinity. The current WiFi setup allows anyone to download the phone app and see everything your car sees. And you may not even need that. The WiFi broadcast on the car is completely open, not locked in any way. Anyone looking at the lists of available WiFi connections will see UCTRONICS listed boldly and showing no lock. Out of curiosity, they'll do a Google search, find the software, install and run, voila!... instant spying on the owner and family of the robot car. This is completely unacceptable!

   3. The remote control app for the phone is not open source. Why not? The company implies that you should simply trust their code and willingly side load it without any real assurances that it doesn't contain instructions for nefarious deeds in addition to the advertised function. If it is legit, why not open source it and/or submit it to the Play Store for comfortable and trusted download and install. This will limit the buy-in by hacking-aware people until this is open sourced, just like the code running on the car. The WiFi code on the car should be open source as well.

Hopefully, the company will pick up these issues via this post. For certainty, Cosmo, can you share Linda's email address with me, so I can deliver these concerns and suggestions to them directly?

How have you progressed? Is your car working now?

Kalqlate

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[kalqlate]

Hi, Cosmo.

Great to hear that you at least have your car running.

BTW, I was editing my response while you were responding. I added some important comments to to items 2 and 3 that would be important for the company to see, so if you've already shared my comments, can you resend them? Especially the part from "Regarding the philosophy of open source...".

Thanks, Kalqlate

[cosmofed]

Np. I have not sent them because I'm waiting for them to send the revisions. So take your time and resend them to me at your leisure.Cosmo-------- Original Message --------Subject: Re: [UCTRONICS/WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car] Unable to upload Arduino code (#1)From: kalqlate To: UCTRONICS/WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car CC: cosmofed ,Manual Hi, Cosmo. Great to hear that you at least have your car running. BTW, I was editing my response while you were responding. I added some important comments to to items 2 and 3 that would be important for the company to see, so if you've already shared my comments, can you resend them? Especially the part from "Regarding the philosophy of open source...". Thanks, Kalqlate

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[kalqlate]

Thanks, Cosmo.

It's OK though. I was able to contact them regarding my issues directly. I'll let you know their response when I hear back from them.

[cosmofed]

Ok.thxs.-------- Original Message --------Subject: Re: [UCTRONICS/WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car] Unable to upload Arduino code (#1)From: kalqlate To: UCTRONICS/WIFI_Camera_Smart_Robot_Car CC: cosmofed ,Manual Thanks, Cosmo. It's OK though. I was able to contact them regarding my issues directly. I'll let you know their response when I hear back from them.

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