I don't think there is a set rule stating that you cannot use your own control devices to operate the robot. What gives it away is the fact that IFI has made a USB Chiclklet that can plug into the standard Joystick Port and then plug in a USB Control Device and use it to your liking. So if you want to modify a PS or X-Box controller you can, just make sure that its done the right way other wise it is close to $450
to replace the OI. Hopefully if someone is also reading this who has modified a Game Console Controller they can tell you exactly how to do it so that nothing gets messed up
or search the White Papers. I'm pretty sure someone has posted a diagram on what goes where. Many teams have not used the Joysticks that FIRST provides and re-wire they're own and used them quite successfully. I know I have seen a Game Console Controller and PC / Game Console Steering Wheel with and without the pedals used with the OI to operate the robot so I know it can be done. Take your time and do it right
.
Good Luck to your Team this year and I hope the controller works the way you want it to.
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Past FIRST Robotics Events that I proudly volunteered at:
FLL: NY State Competition '03
FRC: NYC Remote Kickoff '04 & NYC Regionals '04-'15 ,'10-'13 & NJ Regionals '06-'10, Finger Lakes Regional '09 & SBPLI Regional '08-'15 and the World Championship in '05 (Galileo Field) '07 (Newton Field) '09 (Practice Fields Attendant / FTA(A)), CeBIT Convention in '04 & NextFEST in '06 both held @ the Javitts Center, Monty Madness '07-'10, Panda-monium '08, B.Eruption '08 & '09, Ramp Riot '08, PARC '09 & '10, BR^2 '09 & Wol. Inv. '09 -'15
2015 FIRST Robotics Off Season Events that I hope to volunteer at:
Where is Wolcott Invitational
2015 FIRST Robotics Events that I will be volunteering at:
SBPLI Reg. & Championships
Volunteer Resume:
Alt & Lead Team Queuer, Field Repair/Reset, Field Setup/Breakdown, Spare Parts Attendant, Field Power Controller/Score Keeper, Co-Emcee & Official Scorer, Control System Advisor, FIRST Tech Advisor Assistant & recently Practice Field Attendant.