dashboard rules

[tilky]

is there any rule defining how the dashboard has to be programmed, or are you allowed to use a UDP connection where the robot sends a string that contains all of the info that is needed on the dashboard, and then you just write a normal vi (and make it an exe) which breaks down the string and acquires the data. would this work, or does the FMS prevent this from happening?

[Greg McKaskle]

There isn't a rule, but you need to use an approved TCP or UDP port. There are conventions for how data is passed, but you are free to go your own path.

Greg McKaskle

[tilky]

approved as in not already taken?

[Mark McLeod]

Approved as in not blocked by the field system and dedicated for other uses.

For port restrictions on the playing field see Team UPDATE - 2012-01-20
http://frc-manual.usfirst.org/TeamUpdates/0#term 103
This could change year-to-year so just be prepared to switch ports if necessary.