Robot Best Practices
This article collects best practices for building a reliable FIRST Tech Challenge robot. Each section below covers a specific area of robot design and can be read independently.
Servo Power Usage Best Practices
See the Servos page for background on servo ports and power.
Power Management Best Practices
See the Power Distribution page for background on power ports.
Robot Grounding Best Practices
The Competition Manual requires that the ROBOT frame be electrically isolated from all wiring and electrical devices. Compliance with this rule can be checked by unplugging the battery from the ROBOT main power switch assembly and using a multimeter to observe a >120Ω resistance between the (+ / red) input terminal of the ROBOT main power switch assembly in the “ON” position or the (- / black) input terminal of the ROBOT main power switch assembly and any electrically connected point on the ROBOT. Most aluminum has a clear anodizing layer or oxidation layer on it that acts as an insulator. In order to make a good electrical connection with the grounding strap to the frame, it may be necessary to scratch/file/remove the anodize/oxidation layer from the area of contact with the metal first. Note that some cameras, decorative lights, and sensors (some encoders, some IR sensors, etc.) have grounded enclosures or are manufactured with conductive plastics. These devices must be electrically isolated from the ROBOT frame to ensure compliance with this rule.
See Managing ESD Effects for more detail on grounding straps and electrostatic discharge mitigation.
Robot Controller Mounting Best Practices
Robot Wiring Best Practices
See the Robot Wiring Guide for a full guide on wire management, strain relief, and connectors.
Control System Software Management Best Practices
Gamepad Best Practices
Battery Mounting Best Practices
See the Robot Wiring Guide for related battery security guidance.