An electronic controller and portable programmer system for a pneumatically-powered point-to-point robot is disclosed. The microprocessor-based controller includes a read-only memory for storing the main control program, a non-volatile memory (EAROM) for storing a sequence of robot functions forming a user program, an output interface for transmitting control signals to the robot solenoid values, and an input interface for receiving feedback pressure signals to indicate that the various robot functions have been completed. The portable programmer provides a teach control unit, which is used to enter, edit, and test the user program. The teach control unit includes a matrix keyboard, a display, circuit means for decoding the keyboard and driving the display, and an interface for providing serial communication with the controller.