IFI controller

[Noamr]

Hey everyone,
I know you're not using this controller anymore but I'm hoping someone could help me with this.
Since we're not using the controller anymore we're using it for other stuff at school. We managed to use its digital/analog IO, but we can't use the relays or PWM motors.
We have no idea what the problem might be, except that it could be related to the fact that we're not using the radio control panel. Could that prevent the PWM outputs from working?


Thanks,
Noam
MisCar 1574

[Al Skierkiewicz]

The servo outputs on the IFI controller use the backup battery for power. However you do need to set the enable function on the OI. It is a safety feature that prevents movement of the robot until intended. You can find this info in the documentation for the IFI hardware.

[adamdb]

On a related note, we would like to use one of these as a stand-alone controller, but I don't think we can as the controller expects a tethered or radio connection with the operator interface. Does anyone know how to get around this? Maybe a different firmware or something?

[B.Johnston]

To Run a standalone robot program (no operator input) tether your robot controller to the operator interface (you only need to do this once) and set your team number to zero (all dip switches off) on the operator interface and power it up in program mode it will read the new setting and operate as a stand alone device.

Evertime its reset it will re-start its initialization sequence and (sometimes literally) take off from there.

Be very carefull with your code!

Full on, is exactly that, with only the main circuit breaker or a dead battery as an end of routine terminator

[adamdb]

Thanks Bruce. Now that I hear the procedure, I seem to recall hearing it before in the dim recesses of some previous FIRST season.

We definitely will be cautious. This will be utilized on a non-mobile robot controlling a few servos and some leds/lights. Nothing potentially dangerous.