[Al Skierkiewicz]

OK everyone, time to start thinking about issues you need to address for FRC events. I am basing some on experience and some on reports from preseason and first week events.
Please feel free to add to this list. I will as time goes on.

1. Bumpers! Your bumper system must satisfy all of <R07, 08 & 09> not just the parts that you want. Numbers need to be seen from 100 feet away by grandmothers in the stands and anyone else who is taking stats for strategy. If you want to be picked, make the numbers legible from the top row.

2. Update all software and firmware you are using for anything that might be update able. Check the First website for info and links.

3. Minibot rules are intentionally written and limited. Don't force inspectors to tell you something needs to be removed. We really don't like looking into team members faces and telling them that the rules were updated twice a week or that their design choice was ruled illegal in TU#4 and we are now up to #16.

4. Inspectors use the latest version of the inspection checklist for both robot and minibot reflecting the latest rules changes when they occur. We are using Rev K of Section 04 this week. If you have a specific Q&A answer that you think applies, bring a copy for your inspection team.

5. Before you make major changes to your robot, check with your inspector. You may have misunderstood a ruling or misinterpreted a decision. All teams may ask for the LRI at their event for a decision should they disagree with an inspector's ruling. LRI's will contact the FTA, Head Ref, or someone higher if there is no clear answer. We make mistakes sometimes and I don't want you to be adversely affected by a wrong decision.

6. The box and scale are unambiguous. You either fit or you don't. You are either over 120 lbs or under. Weight and size checks are free. Make use of the scale and box before you come in for an official inspection. Bring your robot over when you get it out of the crate. Know early.

7. You must reinspect whenever you make a change at the event. Check with an inspector prior to the change, they may have a better idea if you ask. They want you to have a great weekend. All robots in finals matches plus alternates will be reinspected prior to match play.

8. Pneumatic rules have been loosened this year but are not unrestricted. Parts still need to be COTS, unmodified and rated for 125 psi working pressure. Off board compressors still need to meet the rules and have to be controlled by the Crio and robot battery. That is the battery on the robot, not another robot battery. You only get to put the compressor (and a few other components) off board to save weight. All other rules apply still apply.

9. There are certain items on the robot that have labels that need to be seen. Don't paint over the labels or mount the components so they can't be seen and read. Wire color codes are strictly enforced. Use the right colors even if you have a sponsor who gave you thousands of feet of rainbow colored wire, only the colors specified can be on your competition robot.

10. Inspectors want everyone to have a fun event. We will be working all weekend toward that goal.