How would I interface a flash drive to the RC?

[Alan Anderson]

Originally Posted by JBotAlan

That part that you quoted is not specific; it refers to another rule, <R56>:

Aside from the rule itself, I don't see references to <R56> anywhere in the 2006 robot manual. It certainly isn't mentioned in the section on custom circuits.

Originally Posted by JBotAlan

I interpret that to mean "if you are using 12v, you need to use a fuse".

One of us is very confused, and I don't think it's me. Fuses are mentioned in <R57>, not <R56>, and are designated there as permitted, not as mandatory. The circuit breaker is mandatory in any case.

Originally Posted by JBotAlan

Why would they provide us with 5v out of the RC if we can't use it?

The 5v from the RC is for sensors. Rule <R91> about powering custom circuits is explicit. I also repeat the mention from <R57> here in its full context.

Originally Posted by <R57>

The use of additional electronics is intended to allow teams to construct custom circuits for their robots. The custom circuits may be used to indirectly affect the robot outputs by providing enhanced sensor feedback to the Robot Controller to allow it to more effectively decide how to control the robot. In addition to the required branch power circuit breaker, smaller value fuses may be incorporated in the custom circuits for additional protection. All outputs from the custom circuits must be connected to the analog inputs, digital I/O, TTL Serial Port, or Program Port on the Robot Controller.

Originally Posted by <R91>

You must protect the power feed to Custom Circuits and Additional Electronics with a 20A Circuit Breaker.