Electronics and Motion Components

This chapter contains information on electric power and electronics of the robot, including information on wiring, batteries, motors, and control system.

• Wiring Guide
• Connectors and Wires
• Control Systems
• Driver Station Guide
• Motor Guide
• Servo Guide
• Sensor Glossary
• Tips and Tricks

Glossary

Gauge

Wire gauge refers to the diameter of wire. AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, the general system used in the US. The larger the gauge number, the smaller the wire diameter. Generally, servo wires are 22 AWG and motor wires are 18 AWG.

Grounding Strap

The REV Grounding Strap is used to ground the metal frame of the robot to the XT30 port of the Expansion Hub. It is currently the only legal way to ground your robot.

USB Retention Mount

The USB Retention Mount, sold by REV, is a plastic part affixed to the Expansion Hub that relieves stress on the USB Mini port. This is especially important because if the USB cable is loose or disconnected, the robot phone cannot communicate with the Expansion Hub, causing a disconnect.

Note

For teams using an expansion hub, it is highly recommended for teams to purchase the USB retention mount.