[Al Skierkiewicz]

Keith,
We started with a request from mechanical to monitor motor currents during competition and ran with it. We now have a fully functional and tested in battle current monitor, "StangSense" (TM) and a portable version of the same monitor. We are able to monitor currents in eight motors on the robot, send the data to the OI and out the dashboard port to a color palm which shows in real time if we are close to tripping breakers on an individual motor. This gives our drivers some feedback during the match. What has proved more useful is the ability to download the data from the palm after the match and compare motor current demand and battery terminal voltage graphically.
We have used the mini version for two regionals now for analyzing other teams machines. Several teams have come to us with electrical questions about tripping breakers and resetting the interface. With a few jumpers added to their robot we were able to pinpoint an offending motor or potential problem.
We will be in Florida for the nationals so if you are having electrical problems stop by our pit and ask for help.
Good Luck All