Between-Match Battery Swaps

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by pyrr101

A tip for charging the batteries is to attach a set of connectors to the end of the charger like the ones that are on the leads for the battery for a good connection.

For all teams, this is the recommended method of using the charger. Don't be tempted to use the alligator clips that come with the charger. The clips will damage the surface of the power lock contact, giving you high resistance and a good place to burn during a match. Teams that use the clips this way also run the risk of shorting the output of the charger when you need it the most. Extra pins for the 50 amp connector are available through Terminal Supply or other outlets.

[Unholy]

Originally Posted by BrianBSL

12 batteries is excessive if you ask me. With the 6A chargers FIRST provides these days, I don't really see a need for having more than 5 or 6 batteries, even if you have a crazy power-hungry robot. If you kill a battery every match, then you should rethink the mechanical design of your robot. If you plan it right, and you don't have a lot of back-to-back matches, and your robot doesn't draw a ton of power, you can certainly get through a regional with only 3 or 4.

Absolutely. It seems irrational to go through batteries just like that.