[FTC]: Using Anderson Connectors for wiring.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Phil,
As much as I like these connectors (we have used them for years on our FRC robots) under 2011 rules they are not legal for FTC. Specifically, they are not official Lego or Tetrix parts and are not on the allowed materials list. While 2011 rules do allow for splicing electrical connections, they specifically call for tape to insulate such connections.

However, if you check my other posts on this subject, you will find that I highly recommend the West Mountain Radio crimp tool. We use these connectors for all FRC motor connections and a variety of other uses on our robots. If FTC rules will allow these in the future, I expect that battery connectors will be required to remain as they are provided from the manufacturer. If for no other reason than to have compatibility between teams.

[PhilBot]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Phil,
As much as I like these connectors (we have used them for years on our FRC robots) under 2011 rules they are not legal for FTC.

Since the 2011/12 rules are yet to be released, I don't know if they are legal or not this year, but it would amaze me if FIRST went to the effort of collecting this information from a team, and placing it on their website if they weren't going to be legal. Plus they (FIRST) are pushing the document on Facebook and Twitter.

Phil.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Agreed but stranger things have happened in the past. We will know in a few days.

[jtdowney]

Just a followup now that the FTC rules have been released. Rule R5(c)-26 says:

Anderson 30 Amp PowerPole or similar Crimp style snap plug connectors and butt splice connectors for joining electrical wires are allowed. Power distribution panels may also be used (and is strongly recommended) to make wiring easier.