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multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
The FRC control system includes a cRIO relay module for controlling pneumatic solenoids. The documentation refers to "the" module and specifies that it goes in slot 8 of the cRIO. It provides eight outputs, which is enough to control four dual solenoids. Our team's early robot design looked like it was going to far exceed that number, requiring us to use Spikes for some solenoids.
I did some checking/hacking/experimenting and determined that the system supports a second relay module installed in the otherwise empty slot 7. I see only one rule that might potentially apply, and it doesn't restrict using extra modules. Before I ask our TIMS contact to ask about this in the Q&A, does anyone else know of a reason it wouldn't be legal? |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
After a very careful check of the documentation, I agree with your interpretation. If it were me, I would challenge any inspector to find out where this was prohibited; others with less gumption may want to verify this via Q&A.
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Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
It's documented in the FIRST power distribution diagram drawings 2 & 3 as a legal use of slot 7.
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Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
Thank you, Mark. It's good to see that the documentation does support the capabilities of the system.
That also confirms the small concern with <R45> that I hinted about -- even with two cRIO relay modules installed, only one can control 24v solenoids. |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
Alan,
I would concur that it is legal and the only way to mix 12 and 24 volt solenoids without resorting to Spikes. i.e. one module powered by 24 volts and one by 12 volts. |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
After reading all the posts and reviewing the documentation, I agree with the conclusions you all have reached.
Although, I now have another question. If we are only going to use one solenoid module and it will be with 24 vdc solenoids, does it need to be in slot 7, or will either voltage work in either slot? |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
Bill -
Either voltage will work in either slot. Alan - You are only allowed one 24V bank of eight, because that is the power draw limitation of the 24V supply. 16 24V valves would likely trip the 24V breaker. |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
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That is what I assumed, but I didn't want to get burned by another assumption, if you know what I mean.::ouch:: |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
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Thanks in advance... |
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Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
If what Alan told you doesn't work, then I'd suspect the version of LabView you are running.
If it's still not showing slot 8, tell us what Help -> About FIRST Robotics Competition Version says. Quote:
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Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
So we tried the right-click, create constant...and only slot8 shows up in the menu. We are running labview 8.6 frc 2010 competition software update .5
Any ideas? Are we missing an update or something? |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
You are indeed missing an update.
See: http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprogr....aspx?id=10934 Look under software, where it says Mandatory LabVIEW Update (if you have trouble with the link PM me-it was acting up when I just tried it). We are currently at Update 2.0. While you're there also pickup the Driver Station update. Keep watching that page, too. NI has said that there will be another Driver Station update released soon. |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
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Thanks for the quick reply!! |
Re: multiple cRIO relay (solenoid) modules?
It won't clobber any existing projects, however, the default templates change and it would be worthwhile to copy or move your code over into the new template.
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