vex keys wont work

hello when i plug the vexnet key into the remote and microcontroller then turn it on, after a period of time dependent on the last time i tried using the vex keys. all the lights on the remote turn red and then i cant use it. although everything works perfectly when i directly tether from usb to usb when using without the keys.

i am using vex cortex

All red lights mean the joystick out of batteries. Replace the 6 AAA batteries in the back and it should work.

If it does not work try updating your cortex and joystick through your programming software

thanks i swear i tried it before and it still didnt work but i guess the batterys worked thanks for the help
now i just need help with my program

@
toggle switch program

When you use the tether, the Cortex is powering the joystick, so the dead batteries in the joystick won’t show up until you unplug everything.