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Unread 05-02-2007, 10:41
BrianBSL BrianBSL is offline
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Re: do we "NEED" the power distribution block

Here's my view on this:
Is it an improvement on the IFI panel? Definitely not. That was a nearly perfect for our robots and its a shame to not be able to use it.

However, I would say it is an improvement over the 2k4 system - as it adds the ability to ground the 40A motors to something other than the FASTON connectors on flimsy 20/30A block, and allows you to eliminate the FASTON's from the high current motors (we use Anderson Powerpoles everywhere instead). It also eliminates the "stacking" of ring terminals for the 6ga connections that could be more likely to cause intermittent connections (as multiple ring terminals on a single stud means more possibilities of moving wires, more likely that the nut will loosen). The weight is annoying - but not as annoying as the 40A MAXI block. It also removes more 6ga ring terminals from the system and replaces them with simple set screw system, which is easier to terminate correctly than a large crimped ring terminal.

But oh well, we have to live with it.
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My posts represent my personal views only, and do not represent the views of either my team, Team 190, nor its primary sponsor, Worcester Polytechnic Institute.