VEX controllers & Servos Voltage question

[matthewdenny]

We have both some VEX controllers (Cortex) as well as standard futaba (5V servos). We would like to use them together.

The issue is that I think the motor ports on the Vex controller have 7.2 V outputs. I think this because all the VEX COTS motors are rated at 7.2V. This seems too high for a standard servo. I was considering using a L7805 voltage regulator on the power pin of the VEX output, I am also wondering if I would need a voltage regulator on the signal/PWM pin from the Cortex as well, or if it would be okay to leave as is.

[gpetilli]

Do you plan on using the VEX controller on a 2015 FRC robot? I don't believe the controller is legal per rule R41. The servo is probably okay per rule R18 assuming it has a max power of 4W. Can you connect the servo directly to the PWM outputs of the roboRIO? I believe they are already setup for 5V.

[matthewdenny]

Do you plan on using the VEX controller on a 2015 FRC robot? I don't believe the controller is legal per rule R41. The servo is probably okay per rule R18 assuming it has a max power of 4W. Can you connect the servo directly to the PWM outputs of the roboRIO? I believe they are already setup for 5V.


This is completely unrelated to FRC robotics. I am a teacher and just trying to maximize the teaching supplies in my room by making the two things compatible with each other.