[billbo911]

Originally Posted by TimCraig

I'm sort of disappointed that the autonomous phase was cut to only 10 seconds this year. Finally, we get a processor that's reasonably capable, we've had a couple of years to develop some experience with the PIC processors, and instead of increasing the time so we can really show off, we get our time cut. Programming the autonomous phase is one of the more difficult and time consuming parts of robot development, I think cutting back the time seems to denegrate its importance. I was hoping for at least 20 seconds if not 30.

If I'm not mistaken, we really have as much as 90 sec. for Autonomous. (Well OK, 10 Autonomous + 2 40 sec. "hybrid" periods). I know, you think I'm off my nut. Fine, but think about it. There is no way you can track the upper target manually with any real success! You have to have it done by sensors and processor all the time while on offence. Add to that the initial 10 sec. fully autonomous, and you have a real programming challenge.
Besides, 10 sec. to gain a serious point advantage is one heck of a challenge.

My suggestion, don't look at it as a disappointment, look at it as a real challenge to you as a programmer to make maximum points in minimum time.