Common Usage FAQ

Pre-sale:

Q: What is Vortex’s power supply?
A: Vortex uses 4x AA batteries. We recommend using rechargeable batteries.

Q: What is included when I buy Vortex?
A: 1) Vortex single Pack contains:
Vortex x1
Golf floor map x1
Sticker s x1
Vortex user manual x1
WhenDo user manual x1

2) Vortex 2 pack contains
Vortex x2
Golf floor map x2
Stickers x2
Game floor map x1
Vortex user manual x1
WhenDo user manual x1

Q: Does Vortex support sensor module expansion?
A: Vortex has a “Maker mode” where you can connect sensors via its IIC/TWI interface.

Q: Does Vortex support iOS and Android?
A: Yes, the Vortex game app requires Bluetooth 4.0. The following smartphones are currently supported: iPhone 4s+ and Android 4.3+

Q: You said Vortex is a programmable robot. How do I upload a program? What should I use?
A: Vortex is a programmable robot based on Arduino open-source hardware. That means you can program it using Arduino IDE directly. We also have an iPad app for Vortex:
WhenDo—A graphical programming software (compatible with iPad 3+)
PC/MAC: Arduino IDE; Scratch 2.0 offline version

Q: What is the difference between WhenDo and Scratch? They both use graphical programming interfaces.
A: WhenDo is a new programming app we have developed with programming logic that is very clear. As the name suggests: When an instruction is given, Vortex will do it.
WhenDo provides a simple interface for children and beginners to play and experiment with different code functions.



After Sales:

Q: When I turn on the power switch, Vortex doesn’t start immediately. Why?
A: Vortex is a complex machine! It should take no more than 3 seconds to start up.

Q: Is Vortex easily damaged when playing games?
A: Vortex is designed to be durable and is not easily damaged during normal use.

Q: My Vortex has stopped running and has begun a series of frantic beeps!
A: It sounds like the batteries are low, try replacing them or recharging them.

Q: Why don’t the top dome lights light up even after I install new batteries?
A: Vortex needs to have its dome fitted properly on its head before the LEDs will light up.

Q: Why I can’t install the app? What should I do?
A: 1) Please ensure that your phone has Bluetooth enabled.
2) Please ensure that your device meets the following requirements:

iOS: iPhone 4S + (Bluetooth 4.0 version); iPad 3+; iPad Mini 2+
Android: Android ROM 4.3+; Bluetooth 4.0

(Note: due to the fragmentation of Android system, we can’t guarantee every Android device will be compatible with the app. Please try updating your ROM if there are issues, or contact support.

Q: After connecting once, Vortex can’t connect again. What should I do?
A: There may be services running in Vortex’s system background. Try turning it off, exiting the app and disabling and enabling Bluetooth, and then try connecting again.

Q: I can’t upload programs to Vortex via the WhenDo app, what should I do?
A: 1) Please ensure that your device is connected to the Internet via WiFi or a high-speed mobile network
2) Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your device
3) Ensure that Vortex is powered on
4) Ensure that your device and Vortex are paired.

Q: After I upload a new program to Vortex, I can’t use it to play the app’s games anymore. Why?
A: Vortex’s memory can only hold one program at a time, and the new program will replace the default factory one. In order to re-enable games, you must restore Vortex’s factory defaults. Please refer to WhenDo manual for information on how to do this.