This lesson uses FTWCODE to create code and to connect to and navigate the Hopper Drone. FTWCODE can be accessed at: www.ftwcode.com 

Block-Based Coding - FTWCODE

• Block-based programming in FTWCODE features a drag-and-drop capability

• Blocks are snapped and stacked on top of each other to form actions 

• Blocks can be dragged and rearranged, and include common functions found in most programming languages

Types of Blocks - FTWCODE

Closed Blocks:

• The “Program Start” block and the “Functions” blocks are the only blocks that are considered Closed Blocks

• Blocks can be placed inside of them but they cannot be placed inside of any other blocks

Snap Blocks - FTWCODE

• Snap blocks are any type of block that can be placed inside of a Closed Block

• Snap Blocks often feature selectable elements

• For example - the fly block lets you choose direction from a drop down, and enter time and power setting

Building Code - FTWCODE

• Blocks are only considered active when they are solid in color

• “Program Start” is always active and will always be solid

• Snap blocks will look "greyed out' when they are not active or inside of a closed block

“Program Start” - FTWCODE

• FTWCODE uses “Program Start” as the initial command (pictured below)

• To start programming, select the General category

• This will expand the General category available block set

• Drag the “Program Start” block onto the work area

Programming in FTWCODE

• After “Program Start”, each command needed is added in the order necessary to solve the problem and complete the code 

Problem:

• Program the drone to take off, hover, turn in a circle to the right, and then land 

Solution:

Executing the Code

• Once you have developed your code, you will need to connect to the drone and run the program

Connecting to the Hopper - FTWCODE

• Enable the computer’s Bluetooth function (desktop, laptop or Chromebook)

• Select DRONE in the upper left-hand corner

• Select CONNECT to bring up the pairing window

• Select your individual drone which is identified by its unique six (6) digit serial number

• Click on PAIR

• Your drone will now be connected and its current battery level will be displayed

Run the Code

• Once the drone is connected, you may hit the RUN button to execute the code that you have programmed