[mman1506]

I haven't had a chance to use the robot open hardware but I modified the software to use on my own arduino board. I really like it overall. The HTML5 chrome driver station was easy to install and use. It is also Open Source and uses the Arduino environment which allows for easy programming and modification using a very well documented programming language. I wish there was a little more documentation on setting it up (the video on the website was outdated) but I would bet that 221 systems would be happy to help if you run into issues.

The Turnigy 9X/9XR is a much simpler system. We mainly use it on our past comp robots that have had there functions removed. It doesn't allow for advanced programming besides simple digital logic programming. The 9X and it's receiver does not have any analog or digital inputs and only communicates in one direction. It is also difficult to use with solenoids and spikes.

Pros & Cons

9X/9XR
pro:
-Super easy and quick to set-up.
-Cheap (70$ for the controller and 5-12$ per robot!)
-Very Reliable FHSS 2.4 ghz communication (doesn't require a wireless network!)
-Very long range 1-12 KM
- No need for a computer or external controllers (the gimbals on the 9X/9XR are excellent)
- Compact
-simple to program (onboard)

cons:
-No advanced prrogramming
-Difficult too interface with solenoids and spikes
-No inputs


Robot Open:
Pro:
-The ability to replicate your Crio program besides computer vision
-Uses a well documented programming language
-Fully replicates Crio I/O
-Backed and supported by a FIRST related company
-Example code
-Easy pneumatics and spike interfacing

Cons:
-requires a wireless network
-requires a computer
-may be a little more difficult to setup

Hopefully I'll have a chance to write a white paper on the 9X setup soon. I've been considering releasing a low cost board (~25$) that allows you to program using the arduino enviroment and easily interface with solenoids,spikes and inputs.