Table of Contents
Robot Components
Skilled Level
Students demonstrate basic identification, safe handling, and understanding of core components.
● Identify FRC core components: RoboRIO, Driver Station Radio, VRM, PCM, PDH/PDP.
● Explain the function and purpose of each component.
● Demonstrate correct powering on/off procedures.
● Connect components safely according to polarity and FRC safety rules.
● Observe correct operation: RoboRIO powers up, radio connects, VRM provides regulated power.
● Recognize common faults (unpowered device, incorrect wiring, misconfigured CAN).
Independent Level
Students can integrate, configure, and troubleshoot core components in robot subsystems.
● Wire RoboRIO, Radio, VRM, PCM, and PDH/PDP independently, including power, CAN, and signal connections.
● Assign and verify CAN IDs for CAN-enabled devices.
● Configure and update firmware using vendor software.
● Diagnose issues such as unpowered devices, brownouts, or communication failures.
● Verify telemetry for core components (current, voltage, device health).
● Mentor another student in wiring, configuration, and testing of core components.
● Document wiring, configuration, and troubleshooting steps for team reference.
Leader Level
Students lead installation, configuration, and troubleshooting for all core components.
● Lead the design and layout of core components in the robot, ensuring accessibility, safety, and proper wiring.
● Supervise the wiring and integration of multiple core components simultaneously.
● Train team members on safe handling, wiring, configuration, and troubleshooting of RoboRIO, Radio, VRM, PCM, PDH/PDP.
● Develop team standards and documentation for component wiring, labeling, and configuration.
● Troubleshoot complex system-level issues under competition conditions (brownouts, CAN communication errors, VRM faults).
● Verify inspection readiness for all core components prior to competitions.
● Integrate component health monitoring into team processes (Driver Station, telemetry, log checks).
