Quote:
Originally Posted by billbo911
"<R83> All equipment connected to the joystick ports of the Operator Interface must be powered solely through the power available through the port. External power sources of any type are not permitted on any equipment connected to the joystick ports. Portable computing devices can not be connected to joystick input ports on the Operator Interface. Powerpassive devices (e.g. joysticks that draw their power solely through the Operator Interface joystick port) are permitted. The one exception to this rule is Innovation First Incorporated USB adapters (IFI Part Number USB-CHICKLET) may be used to connect USB devices to the joystick ports of the Operator Interface. If used, this USB adapter must be powered with a 7.2V battery similar to the back-up battery. Teams can not use power from the competition port or any other source to power the USB adapter. The USB adapter must be positioned within the OPERATOR CONSOLE so that the indicator lights may be seen during inspection and operation in a match."
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(has anyone noticed that Adobe Reader puts a proverbial boatload of carriage returns in any multi-line rule you try to copy out of it? AAGH!)
If I was to take that rule entirely literally, having a power source on any device connected to the OI is illegal, regardless of whether or not the power ever touches the same circuit. However, I think that the judges would be OK with it; just make sure it is easily opened and cleanly wired so that it is obvious the power doesn't hit any control circuit.
Just my 2 cents.
JBot