[junefish]

Originally Posted by PRich1477

Yes, personal WiFi networks are illegal. However, Internet access really isn't necessary, intranet will do just fine. A single robot battery can power an Ethernet switch for an entire day of competition. Bring a lot of cables for your scouts .

If you want to have the server connected to the Internet you could do this without creating any illegal networks by using a 3G connection instead. This way you could upload from the stands and download in the pits using the same sort of 3G setup on another system, so drivers/coaches can get your info right away.

I have also seen teams using homebrew Nintendo DS software to scout, and share the data using the DS's wireless connectivity. I think this may be a bit of a gray area, since I'm not entirely sure if the DS's ad hoc system uses WiFi or a different standard.

Although, I still do kind of like the simplicity of a paper scouting system...

It's true that a paper scouting system is simpler, but it's difficult to compile and analyze after 2.5 days of steady qualification matches. We've used computers for several years now, and last year I often thought a particular robot was good--because one match really stood out--until scouting analysis showed that to be a fluke. The scouting needs to be done by humans, but computers are definitely helpful at the analysis stage.