Table of Contents
Battery Specialization
Skilled Level
Students demonstrate basic understanding of FRC batteries.
● Perform battery voltage measurement with a multimeter. Show procedure to measure the voltage ranges: ~13.0V fully charged, ~12.0V nominal, <11.0V = low / replace before match. Demonstrate proper use of the battery beak.
● Identify the type of battery used in FRC (6S, 12V, sealed Lead acid, Lithium-ion (Li-ion), Lithium Polymer (LiPo), and Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)).
● Demonstrate safe battery handling (lifting, avoiding short circuits, proper polarity).
● Show how to connect and disconnect a battery safely from the robot and charger.
● Have the ability to identify faulty battery cables, connectors, or terminals and replace them.
● Demonstrate /explain the proper charging practices using FRC-approved chargers.
● Recognize a battery that is over-discharged or damaged.
● Understand basic battery specifications (capacity, nominal voltage, max current).
Independent Level
Students can manage batteries autonomously and troubleshoot battery-related issues.
● Perform a battery load test to evaluate charge health under robot load.
● Measure and record battery voltage under load and at rest.
● Diagnose and respond to low voltage or brownout situations on the robot.
● Rotate, label, and organize batteries for team inventory management.
● Independently handle charging schedules to maintain team readiness.
● Explain battery care best practices to new team members.
Leader Level
Students lead others in battery management and team strategy for competition readiness.
● Lead a team in performing pre-competition battery checks (voltage, load test, connections).
● Develop and implement a battery tracking system for the team (e.g., labeling, log sheet, rotation schedule).
● Mentor other students on safe handling, charging, and load testing.
● Supervise and train students in rapid battery replacement and troubleshooting in the pit during competition.
● Evaluate battery performance trends over time and recommend procurement or maintenance strategies.
● Communicate battery status to drive team, electrical team, and mentors.