Minibot Battery
 

We need to order a spare battery for our minibot, but the spare batteries are $50. I can build an equivalent battery for $14 but it would be 1600mAH as opposed to the supplied battery's 3000mAH. Is this acceptable by FIRST regulation?

Re: Minibot Battery
 

if it's not identical, and it sounds like it isn't, then it isn't legal.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

<R92>
Emphasis mine.

I don't think making your own battery would be legal, in this case.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

As stated in the rules (R92 C), it must be identical to the battery in the FTC kit of parts. Having a lower mAH rating makes this battery not identical to the one supplied in the kit. I am not on the GDC, but in my interpretation of the rules, this would not be allowed. However, if you could make one that supplied 3000 mAH, it would be identical, fitting the rule.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

Thank you.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

I emphatically disagree with that statement. It might have the same capacity specifications, but it would not be an identical part, and it would thus not follow the rule.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

Have you checked the FIRST Q and A forum?

Re: Minibot Battery
 

You really do not have to check the forums. Using a self-made battery is obviously illegal, and dangerous if you're not sure.

Using it for practice is fine, as long as it's safe.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

Dakota,
You can ask the Q&A but this rule makes all minibots use the exact same voltage/current/weight battery that has a fuse holder attached for use with known (and widely available at competition) battery charger and connector.

Re: Minibot Battery
 

Why do you need a new battery? One should be plenty enough to run the competition. 3000mAh is way overkill for a couple tetrix motors. I still don't understand why they made us use such a massive battery.