[FTC]: Custom Material and Wiring Questions

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Joe,
I read R5 as only NXT or RCX sensors may be used. Specifically b.4, b.7, d.4 and d.8. The Q&A did allow the use of reed switches with some very specific limitations. That is all that I was able to see.

[electron]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

I read R5 as only NXT or RCX sensors may be used. Specifically b.4, b.7, d.4 and d.8. The Q&A did allow the use of reed switches with some very specific limitations. That is all that I was able to see.

Mr. Skierkiewicz, I was under the impression that certain custom sensors (eg, potentiometers, some limit switches, and some reed contacts) are considered "modifications", "additional circuits", or "sensors" connected to the prototype board. (see all rules in d. pages 29 to 30).
Also, see post #28 on the GOI Q&A Electrical page here.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Joe,
R5 d really doesn't allow even the micro switches so the Q&A for reed and microswitch is a waiver made by the GDC. Note that the inspection checklist does not have a spot for these devices. Also if you search you will find that toggle switches also were deemed legal in January after many regional events had already taken place. As you are not modifying any FTC or NXT parts these are not considered legal modifications to use such parts. I did not find any reference to the use of pots, have you? Although I have been a lead inspector for FTC, I do not have any additional input to the GDC for FTC. A strict reading of the rules, in my mind, prevents the use of these devices. That does not mean, however, that I think they should be banned. I personally would like to see the rules in this area opened to the same use as in FRC. All of the stated devices are legal in FRC and encouraged. The real issue is the ability for a team to correctly use these items with the interface tools allowed and prevent damage to the NXT.

[electron]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Joe,
[snip].
That does not mean, however, that I think they should be banned. I personally would like to see the rules in this area opened to the same use as in FRC. All of the stated devices are legal in FRC and encouraged. The real issue is the ability for a team to correctly use these items with the interface tools allowed and prevent damage to the NXT.

I could not agree more! I used to be the electrical guy on Overdrive's FRC team, and I really miss the open-nes with which FIRST viewed COTs sensors in FRC.
Hopefully, they will address custom sensors more clearly in next year's manual