PicoBlocks - Reference
Common Error Messages
Error Message
Explanation
The Beamer cannot see
the Cricket
The Beamer is sending, but no Cricket is responding.
Solution: Make sure the Cricket is turned on, and that the Cricket
and the Beamer are facing each other.
For more information, see
www.picocricket.com/troubleshooting
Can’t find the Beamer
PicoBlocks wasn’t able to open the communication port.
Solution: Make sure the Beamer is properly connected to your
computer. If you are using Windows, make sure only one copy of
PicoBlocks is running. For more information, see:
www.picocricket.com/support
Can’t save an empty score You tried to export a melody or rhythm that is empty.
Solution: Make sure the block contains notes, then click Export
again.
Can’t use ____ as a name PicoBlocks does not allow that word as a name. Numbers, names
starting with % or [ , and existing words are considered invalid.
Solution: Type another name.
Communication problem There was a communication problem while PicoBlocks was
downloading data to your Cricket.
Solution: Make sure that the Beamer and the Cricket are facing
each other, then try again. If the Cricket’s yellow antenna lights
keep flashing even when you are not downloading, the Cricket
is probably receiving infrared interference from a monitor or
other device. Shield the Cricket from the monitor. For more
information, see
www.picocricket.com/troubleshooting
Missing input to _______ One (or more) of the blocks requires input.
Solution: Check that every block has something attached on its
right side when required. (You can tell by the shape of a block
whether it takes an input.)
For example,
display
needs a number (or other value) attached
as an input:
display
100
Repeat
requires a number value at the top right. It also requires
plus one or more blocks under its “arm” to repeat:
repeat
chirp
10
Tip: To check if a block needs inputs, click on the block with the
Help tool
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