Ranger Crashes Mac, No longer works with Makeblock HD iPad app

#1

My son got the mBot ranger for Christmas. We successfully got the ranger to talk with the iPad app and worked well.

However, my son wanted to be able to scratch code instructions. We downloaded mblock for mac version 3.4.4 (what we thought was the latest version. We installed the USB drivers on our machine running el capitan, but it kept crashing the machine every time we plugged in the ranger.

After some fiddling around, we managed to get the ranger connect to the mac via usb. We updated the firmware as per instructions, but now it won’t talk to the iPad app anymore; it says unrecognized firmware version. To add insult to injury, connecting the ranger to the USB is crashing the mac again.

HELP

#2

Use this driver instead: http://www.mblock.cc/posts/run-makeblock-ch340-ch341-on-mac-os-sierra

I’m on Sierra and it also experienced crashes. Upgrading worked great. I also had no trouble pairing the robot to the Mac via bluetooth. Works perfectly on iOS and macOS. Be sure that if you want to connect to a different device that you disconnect the bluetooth from the prior device or app before trying to connect elsewhere.

#3

Awesome. Thanks @barthrh for the help. Are you using version 3.4.4 of the MacOS app? Is that the version I should be using?

#4

Greetings, fellow pilgrims. Similar circumstances: Christmas mBot Ranger for 10-year-old, worked well with iPhone using Bluetooth, good fun. Attempted to create scratch code using mBlock 3.4.4, only responded to some of code, rendered Bluetooth controls inoperable. Tough to stay positive with disappointed youngster when dad is not used to this stuff. After much searching, saw above link to new driver, successfully downloaded, able to connect via USB port without crashing MacBook Pro. Unclear of sequence/whether to upgrade firmware, restore default code, when to set firmware mode. Tried a couple sequences. Able to link again via iPhone MakeBlock via Bluetooth but controls not responsive. Suspect either MakeBlock requires update or sequence incorrect above. Welcome assistance before son realizes that much of this kind of work involves frustration of things not working in just this manner. Cheers

#5

Hi Toucan,

Normally, if you have load some program to the mBot before, you need upgrade firmware for mBot to clear the previous uploaded program, then you can control the mBot with Makeblock APP. Reset default program works either.
For the issue that the robot doesn’t react when control through mobile APP, you may change the battery for robot have a try.According to our test and research, it is suggested to use rechargeable Li-ion battery or rechargeable nickel-metal hydride, nickel-cadmium which can be bought from amazon or local shop. Or Alkaline battery with good quality like Energizer, DURACELL.

Besides, here we have a program online course for mBot to you for reference:http://learn.makeblock.com/en/mbot-programming/