Quote:
Originally Posted by Johnny_5
I recommend checking out the manual that I attached, it really helped me understand more. And now I feel that building a field with the FIRST electronics is more possible than before!!
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I was actully refering to that manual in composing my original post.
What you say is just about right.
Honestly the Scorpion Moduel is just the computer running the fms, and a bunch of switches, io boards, etc. The only reason it's in a case is to keep it neat. I am just personally interested in seeing what exactly FIRST chose to use in constructing those parts.
As for the box you mentioned on the scorers table, that is actually only used in on-season. However I forgot to mention that all versions of the FMS for off-season use (the one FIRST uses at it's competitions is usually not released to the public) uses a software version of that on your computer screen, so that is a whole step out of the process. It is layed out exactly the same on the screen.
I'm going to be quite honest with you, as cool as it is to try to remake a full set of electronics, I don't really see the need. For your off-season, renting them from FIRST is alot easier if you want to have everything used at the regionals, as things such as the tower triggers, and the tablets, aren't always used each year, and would save you alot of$.
In terms as just a practice field, the basic Linksy's Router, 2 switches, and a laptop to run the FMS should be just fine. You don't need the LCD displays or the status lights for just practice. The only thing this limits you on is game specific electronics, but once again these change from year to year, and they add up in cash pretty quick.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Fletch1373
I know for fact that FIRST will send out a full official field to off-season events. However, I think you need to have a trained FTA at the event to receive the field.
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That would be correct. Part of your fee for renting the field electronics is having an FTA who comes down, helps you set it up, and is on hand to help things run smoothly. (I want to note that this if you rent the field and field electronics. FIRST does rent out fields to events without electronics, in which case you will not have any FIRST Staff/ FIRST trained volunteers coming with the field.)
The thing about integrating the more advance electronics, is I have yet to see it (or heard of) it being done outside of FIRST Rented electronics. My concern here is more of compatibility with the FMS. Once again FIRST may be able to shed some light on this.
John I wish you the best in your endeavor to try this out. I appreciate it if you kept me informed on how things go. Also, you already look like someone who wants to be an FTA. If you ever think about volunteering for FIRST down the road, thats a good position to look into.
Also I don't think it's really been mentioned, but in terms off constructing a regulation field on the hardware end there is full and complete documentation on the construction process for the entire Field.
Edit:
Check this PDF out for what I consider a "basic" set-up.