Encoder Issues and Controller Question

[TomH]

Hello everyone,

I have two questions that I'd like to ask, one with encoders, and the other about using an Arduino based custom controller to drive the bot (not cRIO, but like gamepad or joystick controller)

Our programming team has encountered some interesting issues this year with encoders. It seems as though we can get the raw 0s and 1s from a live readout in Netbeans, but we can't get it to count or give us a rate. We are not using CAN, and I tried all I could think of. We are just using one signal to get the rate/distance, we aren't interested that much into direction. Could this be a problem? I can give more details on how its been set up.

Next, my Arduino controller question. Is it possible, or even legal, to make an Arduino controller to have a few buttons that do different things? I don't think we'd use this at all in competition , but it would be a cool experiment that we could do, and also show how custom controllers can be made. And is it possible to make a custom controller that the driver station can recognize, and further more even take commands from?

Thanks,
Tom