Custom Chargers for backup battery

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Larry et al,
As I have said in this thread and elsewhere, I am not happy with the design of the IFI charge circuit. I would rather have a charger that indicates a fully charged battery and takes up zero weight and size on the robot. The only way to get all of those items is to take the time to take the battery off the robot and stick it in a charger in the pit. Easy, safe, and sure that the battery is charged. I like the idea of conversion to power poles as well. (hates Molex)
On another note from an experienced inspector...When mounting the backup battery, don't velcro to the top of the RC. As convenient as that is it blocks the tally lights on the RC from inspection during on-field troubleshooting by IFI and field personnel.
As a suggestion to IFI, if there is going to be a change in RC design, I would allow the main battery to feed the servo power through steering diodes so that the backup has less current draw during normal match operation. This would allow the backup to feed camera servos and normal battery fail circuitry while allowing the main battery to power everything else during the period in which the robot is turned on during matches.