Looking for 2005 or 2006 Robot Controller

[Daru]

Hi everyone,

We're looking for an extra robot controller so we can make a little prototype robot with the new freshmen. We had it all built, and were disappointed when we realized the 2004 controller uses the edu code... correct?

I guess it's already getting to pinch-time, though. Excited about the kickoff? I am!

If you have an extra robot controller you would be willing to sell, please let me know!

~Dave
Team 706

[bear24rw]

edu code?

the 04 controller is in C just like the 05 and 06

[Matt Krass]

There are technically two 2004 controllers, either of which could be useful. The "mini" controller does in fact use EDU code, but that doesn't preclude it from being useful.

If you're using the mini-RC, you can use it to teach freshman autonomous mode, unless you want to invest in the R/C control system you'd need to make it tele-op capable. Even standalone it's invaluably useful for teaching programming, and testing out little designs.

If it's the regular RC, you're golden, just update to master v12 and start working with the full size 2005 default code (2006 would need some conversion, it's well documented you can try that as well if you'd like. Might be a good freshman project.)

[chris31]

I dont know how easy it will be for you to find an 04,05,or 06 controller. You best bet is to buy the mini-RC. However there might be a team hear willing to give up an old controller, but I doubt it.

[Rob2713g]

When do you need it by? We're on winter break right now, but I will ask my team.

[bear24rw]

The mini RC still runs on C and the code is virtually identical to
that of the regular RC. you can still layout all your autonomous
code the same. There are only slight differences that you probably
wont even notice

[Daru]

If it's the regular RC, you're golden, just update to master v12 and start working with the full size 2005 default code (2006 would need some conversion, it's well documented you can try that as well if you'd like. Might be a good freshman project.)

How do I update that? Seems like that would be the best option right now?

[Matt Krass]

Originally Posted by Daru

How do I update that? Seems like that would be the best option right now?

Get the updated code from here: http://www.ifirobotics.com/rc.shtml#Programming

Download the 2006 default code, included is a ZIP file with the default code for the new controller, instructions for converting it to run on the 2004/2005 controllers, which are good to run through as a basic project as well.

To do the master update, select the FRC_MASTER_V12.BIN file in IFI Loader, make sure the OI/RC are tethered and both connected to stable power (Wall warts and such). IFI Loader will automatically switch to Master update mode and warn you not to disconnect anything and such, it makes it seem kind of scary, but as long as you don't have a complete power failure during the update, or trip over anything and knock it out, you're clear.

I'd recommend updating to Master Code 12, then converting the Default Code to run on previous controllers (there's a .txt file in the ZIP detailing that process as well) and getting that to run, then saving the whole directory. Good way to get started.

Let me know if you need any other help.

[Daru]

Thanks a lot, I got it working.