[Greg McKaskle]

NI is fine with you using the software on the DVD. The issue is that the 4 slot doesn't have the same enet or FPGA chip. It needs a new image and is only supported by the latest LV edition, not the edition shipped last year, but the one which will ship and is currently being integrated and tested in the Beta program.

This changeover doesn't happen each year -- thank goodness -- but when it does, it causes a synchronization bubble that is working its way through the system during this offseason. I believe that FIRST doesn't expect most rookies to be purchasing controllers, building robots, etc. months and months before kickoff. If you are that rookie team, you seem to be caught on the wrong side of the bubble. The eight slots were still available until a few months ago, and as mentioned, there are thousands in the community. You may even be able to borrow one from a local NI rep.

Greg McKaskle