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Unread 24-01-2012, 00:50
Andrew Lawrence
 
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Re: Banebots RS-775 Case Short

I'm constantly guilty of being a wall-rider for many scenarios, and this one is the same. Like I say a lot, both sides are at fault here.

CD community:
I understand that the 775 has not been working recently, and that we're all kinda frustrated about that. However, that doesn't mean that Banebots isn't a good provider. Our 2011 robot, while not too successful, was powered by 4 CIM motors for the drive and a BaneBots 775 for the arm, and not once to this day have we had a problem with it. I know other teams have had a multitude of problems with the 775, and while that is something to be spoken up about, it's not something to create a thread of complaints about. I, for one, wholeheartedly appreciate everything our friends at Banebots do for us. Companies like AndyMark, Banebots, etc. supply FIRST teams, and often work their hardest to ensure that we are getting the best of what they can offer. I'm no business owner, but I can tell you as a fact that companies like Banebots are no walk in the park to operate, especially with the high demands of build season. We are part of FIRST, and as stated before are very understanding people. And while that holds to be true, our reactions sure are not showing the gracious professionalism expected by us from not only our peers, but the world around us. If a problem like this shows up, we as FIRSTers have the duty to not only alert the manufacturer of the product with the problem, but to work with them to engineer a solution to it. We're here to change the world, not hold others back.

Banebots Company:
To start, I really appreciate all of the things you do for FIRST teams and the great products you have distributed for our use. I know the hardships it takes of running a business, and how you probably may feel by reading the comments on this thread. Like I said above, this is both side's problem. Banebots is a great company, and great companies need to know how to handle complaints, whether emailed directly to them, or posted on an online forum. I understand that what has been posted seems like people are "bashing" your RS 775 motor, however as a great company, you should know that this doesn't mean to get mad at the people, but to inquire as to how you can fix your product so the product is not only fixed, but better than it was before. FRC teams do the best in their power to make their robots feats of engineering unmatched by any other program available, and you should be honored to be part of the program. FIRST loves Banebots, and Banebots loves FIRST (Why else would you continue to sell us your products? ) You have always been an invaluable addition to every team's designs since you joined the FIRST family, and we all hope you stay with us to further explore the engineering experiences and opportunities to come.

Thank you to anyone who reads this, and I hope that both the CD community and the Banebots company will be able to engineer their way through this mess and confusion.

-Andrew