preparing_system_tutorial

System Setup

This guide explains how to build and run the VRX environment. Make sure to review the System Requirements before you begin.

Step 1: Choose your installation method.

To build the VRX software, you need a development environment with the necessary dependencies installed (these include ROS, Gazebo and some utilities). There are two ways to do this:

Option A: Host Machine Installation (default)

Set up your host machine as your development environment.

• This is the simplest configuration provided you are able to install the specific versions of Ubuntu/ROS/Gazebo listed in the System Requirements.
• This is the default approach. To use this option, continue to Step 2 below.

Option B: VRX Docker Container Installation

Set up a Docker container with the necessary dependencies, and run VRX inside the container.

• This involves installing Docker, then installing dependencies into a Docker image.
• The image functions like a lightweight virtual machine that allows you to build and run VRX.
• This option is a little more complex conceptually, but has the advantage of leaving the configuration of your host machine (mostly) undisturbed.
• Choose this option if you are using the same host for multiple development projects that make use of different software environments (for example, different ROS versions), or just prefer not to install packages on your host system.
• To use this alternative installation method, follow the VRX Docker Installation Tutorial.

Step 2: Install ROS 2 Humble and Gazebo Garden.

Follow the installation instructions provided and return here when finished:

• ROS 2 Humble
• Gazebo Garden

Step 3: Install additional dependencies:

sudo apt install python3-sdformat13 ros-humble-ros-gzgarden ros-humble-xacro

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