Electronics Board Construction/Design

[Al Skierkiewicz]

For several years now we have used a punched aluminum sheet available from McMaster. I believe the holes are 1/4". It is light and allows us to tywrap everything in place in case we need to rapidly replace a component. It also allows for tywrapping all the wiring down. It may not be pretty but it gets the job done and allows for cooling air to move through the robot.

[Greg McCoy]

The TechnoKats use thin (1/8" - 1/16") Lexan because it's non-conductive, easy to cut/drill, and clear, which can be very convenient when you are trying to see something in your robot from below. We usually tie-wrap everything because it's easier to remove and replace components than it is with nuts and bolts. I'd also recommend making your wire runs as short as possible (especially the high-current ones, such as the battery and drive motors) to minimize voltage drop and get the most out of your battery. Covering the Victors is a good idea too, as metal flakes from drilling/cutting on your robot can get in them and release the magic smoke.

[Denny527]

Hey thanks for the ideas and pictures guys