Lesson 3.4: Using int Values to Count Cycles and Repetitions

Technical Context

Counting discrete events, such as scored elements or intake cycles, requires whole numbers. An int makes that intent clear and prevents fractional results from entering code that expects a count. It does not prevent every logic error, but it gives Java a useful type boundary.

When int Is the Right Tool

An int (integer) is a 32-bit primitive used for whole numbers ranging from approximately −2 billion to +2 billion. In robotics, int is essential for indexing through arrays of motors or counting the specific number of encoder ticks reported by a DcMotor. Unlike double, an int does not store decimal information; if you divide 5 by 2 using integers, Java will return 2, completely discarding the remainder.

Annotated Code

@TeleOp(name="Cycle_Counter")
public class CycleCounter extends OpMode {

    // Declaring an int to store the total count of scored items
    int pixelCount = 0;
    boolean wasPressed = false;

    @Override
    public void init() {
        telemetry.addData("System", "Counter Reset to Zero");
    }

    @Override
    public void loop() {
        // Incrementing the integer count on each new button press
        if (gamepad1.a && !wasPressed) {
            pixelCount++; // Shorthand for pixelCount = pixelCount + 1
        }
        wasPressed = gamepad1.a;
        telemetry.addData("Pixels Scored", pixelCount);
    }
}

Fill-in-the-Blank Practice

The datatype used for whole numbers without any decimal places is __________.
When dividing two integers, Java performs __________ division, where any remainder is discarded.
A standard integer in Java is a/an __________-bit signed value.

Show answers

int
integer (truncating) division
32

Simulator Challenge

Robot Scenario: Your autonomous requires the robot to keep track of how many "laps" it has completed. Declare an int variable and increment it every time the "B" button is pressed.

Telemark Unit 3 Simulator

Tracks `String`, `double`, `boolean`, and `int` variables as you edit.

Supports telemetry, `gamepad1`, simple `if` blocks, and basic `setPower()` math.

Does not simulate full hardware behavior or complex Java control flow.

Show answer

int laps = 0;

@Override
public void init() {
    laps = 0;
}

@Override
public void loop() {
    if (gamepad1.b) {
        laps++;
    }
    telemetry.addData("Laps completed", laps);
}

Ready to move on?

Technical Context​

When int Is the Right Tool​

Annotated Code​

Fill-in-the-Blank Practice​

Simulator Challenge​

Technical Context

When int Is the Right Tool

Annotated Code

Fill-in-the-Blank Practice

Simulator Challenge