FRC Blog - 2016 Motor Controllers

[Jimmy Nichols]

Originally Posted by Michael Hill

That's exactly how I feel. I'd much rather know now in a blog post than to read it in the rules.

Agree. When I started things like this didn't exist. There wasn't a blog and information like this wasn't widely distributed.

I just go the weekly email, I do feel that the timing of the blog post to the email could be better coordinated so that the information goes out together. So more teams get the info at the same time.

[Gdeaver]

We use the BB RS540 for our swerve steering. I wonder if all BB motors are going to be illegal at a late date. With all BB motors listed as discontinued and new Planetary gear boxes from BB, they may have a new line for 2016. Time will tell. We have used the BB products for years and have liked the small light weight solution they provide. We design with in spec. The Vex pro planetary maybe nice but heavy and larger foot print.

For those who complain about motor controller prices, look at the other commercial shipping controllers for hobby robotics. These companies are providing high quality devices for a fantastic price. The Talon SRX with it's program ability is an unbelievable bargain compared to the other market options. Sub 50$ controllers is fantastic.

[Jimmy Nichols]

Originally Posted by Gdeaver

We use the BB RS540 for our swerve steering. I wonder if all BB motors are going to be illegal at a late date. With all BB motors listed as discontinued and new Planetary gear boxes from BB, they may have a new line for 2016. Time will tell. We have used the BB products for years and have liked the small light weight solution they provide. We design with in spec. The Vex pro planetary maybe nice but heavy and larger foot print.

For those who complain about motor controller prices, look at the other commercial shipping controllers for hobby robotics. These companies are providing high quality devices for a fantastic price. The Talon SRX with it's program ability is an unbelievable bargain compared to the other market options. Sub 50$ controllers is fantastic.

Our kids are designing a swerve and was getting ready to purchase the parts which included BB parts. I'm thinking Saturday will be looking at redesign or other motor options.

I'm very happy to see motor controllers going down in price over the last few years.