There are 3 modules that plug into the cRIO. Each requires a breakout board to adapt between the many-pin connector on the module and the things that you want to connect to the module.
- Analog Input Module (NI 9201): required; breakout board is a small circuit board that plugs directly into the module; for taking inputs from analog sensors (where the signal varies from zero to five volts)
- Digital I/O Module (NI 9403): required; breakout board is the Digital Sidecar; outputs PWM signals, for controlling speed controllers, as well as a simple on/off signal for controlling relays (like a Spike) and takes inputs from digital sensors (where the signal is either on or off).
- Solenoid Module (NI 9472): only needed if using pneumatics; breakout board is a small circuit board that plugs directly into the module
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A potentiometer (or pot) is a variable resistor which can be used to give a analog signal based upon the position of the knob. The knob on a stereo is a potentiometer.
A gyroscope (or gyro) is a type of sensor that gives a signal that changes with rotation. Most gryros give an analog signal, but some can also give a digital signal. For example, a Wiimote uses gyros and accelerometers (a sensor that measures acceleration) to track its movement.
I'm pretty sure
this is the link eedoga meant for his first link, it and the other he provided are both very useful and
here is the official technical resources page for the 2012 control system.