> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bellflight.gitbook.io/vertical-robotics-competition/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bellflight.gitbook.io/vertical-robotics-competition/hardware/peripheral-component-computer/code.md).

# Flash the PCC

#### VS Code can do more than just Python! We can even compile and deploy code to microcontroller-based devices, like our PCC. In this tutorial, we'll get VS Code ready to upload our code to the PCC. 

## Install PlatformIO

* Open VS Code
* Open the extensions drawer (or press CTRL + SHIFT + X)
* Search for and install the PlatformIO IDE

![](https://734487356-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MObZEFR6zG-gnkxXVBb%2F-MXAUQ33faV7wX3pq1gG%2F-MXAWyqf_eUZmsCYz1Zp%2Fplatformio_extension.JPG?alt=media\&token=748c614c-2fb5-4fc7-96eb-fafa2b6cca8d)

### Open the VRC Peripheral Software Project:

* Click **PIO** button
* Click **Open**
* Click **Projects**
* Click **Add Existing**
* Navigate to where you cloned the VRC Phase I Repo
* Click **MCU Software**, then **Open**
* Your project will show up 
* Click **Open** once more

### Flashing the PCC

* Once the project is open, let PIO build the Intellisense Index and download the necessary packages it needs (see the blue bar at bottom of VS Code window for progress)
* Once that's done, open the src -> main.cpp file
* Click the **checkmark** (the program should build)
* Plug your assembled PCC into a USB port on your computer
* Click the **right arrow** (project should flash onto PCC)

![Gif of steps to upload code to PCC](https://734487356-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MObZEFR6zG-gnkxXVBb%2F-MXAUQ33faV7wX3pq1gG%2F-MXAhXYVkK8bdNDLU2ec%2FWebp.net-gifmaker%20\(1\).gif?alt=media\&token=cf84defa-5a34-4613-a285-44ead21e8621)

{% hint style="success" %}
You're now ready to test it out!
{% endhint %}