NEW 2009 Control System Released

[dcbrown]

Originally Posted by writchie

The two architectures are completely different. It appears the only commonality would be through labview.

You can get started with the new FRC control system stuff now. The following are current prices:

cRIO 9074 - $2999
Power Supply & Cables $249
9201, 9403, and 9472 Modules and Cables $1219
Subtotal Total Hardware $4467

Software:

Labview for Windows $4099
Labview Real-Time Module $2499
Labview FPGA Module $2499

Subtotal Software $9097

Total $13,564

The above doesn't include the custom undocumented digital sidecar so the above would only get you started on the tool chain and sensor platforms.

Also doesn't include the "bumps" for the i/o modules or the cable for the digital side car, or the wireless access point listed as part of the cRIO-FRC kit.

Discounting is steep - to start NI offers 30% discount for 100 or more of same config ordered in a 1 year period. Going to 4 slot chassis from 8 saves $300. The FPGA size is one of the more sensitive pieces. Going from a 1M to 3M FPGA is an increase of $1700.

But anyway you slice it, this is an expensive piece of hardware. If teams want a 2nd one for proto work, its going to put a serious dent in the budget. This could become a factor between have and have-not teams in terms of which have deep pockets and are able to afford a 2nd controller setup unless teams are able to order a cRIO-FRC at discounted price. Of course, if teams can come up with ~$4000 needed now to purchase one they could go that route. But, without the pwm breakout board (digital sidecar), it would be difficult to build a fully functioning robot.

Debug is either via LabVIEW or Wind River IDE. But in order to use Wind River Workbench IDE you need a full license for the WR IDE -- but that isn't listed on the description of what's included in the new controller set.