[FTC]: Custom Material and Wiring Questions

[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.