Controller needed for FRC 2014

[rvgrossman]

For the operator console do we need to use the provided joysticks, or can we use any type of controller we would like to?

[Christopher149]

As far as I know, there are no restrictions.* For example, we've used the sticks provided by the KOP, a 3-axis bought on eBay, and gamepads (for consoles). So long as the driver station recognizes it as some kind of joystick device, you're probably fine.



*okay, one is that you can't be touching it during autonomous, so something you wear could be annoying

[Lemon]

There is also the restriction that the controller (or anything really, other then the laptop and the robot) can not be communicating wirelessly. So it would have to be a controller that you could plug into your computer.

[geomapguy]

Just about any usb controller works...

You can actually make a custom usb device like many teams (us included do)...helps for creating custom buttons and such.

[SpaceOsc]

You can use any variety of controllers that work with your drivers station. this can be USB controllers made for consoles and PCs. also note that you can create your own controller. or control panel. wire switches. and nobs. lights, indicators. anything that makes driving your robot better.

FIRST has an award for unique and innovated systems.

Innovation in Control Award sponsored by Rockwell Automation

Celebrates an innovative control system or application of control components – electrical, mechanical, or software – to provide unique machine functions.

check out CD media for picture of whats possible. dont be afraid to go the extra mile on your drivers station.

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/search/results/1509110

just make sure its not wireless communications.