3-Wire Devices#

3-Wire devices connect to the three-pin ports on the EXP Brain. These devices include sensors, legacy motors, and actuators that communicate using simple analog or digital signals.

Below is a list of available 3-Wire devices:

  • 3-Wire Expander - A 3-Wire Expander adds additional 3-Wire ports when all of a Brain’s built-in ports are in use.

  • Accelerometer - Detects acceleration and tilt along multiple axes to measure motion and orientation. The sensor includes a jumper that adjusts sensitivity between 2G and 6G ranges.

  • Analog In - Reads a continuous voltage signal from an analog 3-Wire sensor to report values across a range.

  • Bumper Switch - A spring-loaded switch used for detecting collisions or impacts on the robot.

  • Digital In - Reads binary input signals (high or low) from external devices such as switches or sensors.

  • Digital Out - Sends binary output signals (high or low) to control external devices like LEDs or relays.

  • Encoder - Measures the relative rotational position and direction of a shaft to determine speed or distance traveled.

  • Gyro Sensor - The Gyro Sensor measures the heading and the rotation of the robot.

  • LED Indicator - Controls LED Indicators by turning them on or off.

  • Light Sensor - Measures the intensity of ambient light to detect brightness or contrast changes in the robot’s environment.

  • Limit Switch - A small switch that detects contact with objects or surfaces.

  • Line Tracker - Detects differences in light reflection, allowing the robot to follow lines on the field surface.

  • Motor 393 - A legacy DC motor from VEX EDR systems.

  • Object Sensor - Uses infrared reflection to detect whether an object is nearby, returning a digital signal when something is within range. Used with the CTE Workcell.

  • Potentiometer - Measures the angular position of a rotating shaft or mechanism. The sensor supports 270 degrees of rotation.

  • Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) - Outputs a pulse-width-modulated control signal through a 3-Wire port to drive legacy motor controllers or servos.

  • Range Finder - Uses ultrasonic sound waves to measure the distance between the sensor and nearby objects.

  • Servo Motor - A position-controlled motor used to rotate mechanisms to specific angles.

  • Victor Motor - A legacy motor controller that takes a 3-Wire PWM signal from the Brain to control VEXpro/EDR DC motors that can’t plug directly into Smart Ports.