Control Systems#

The FTC® control system is based around a “Robot Controller” and a “Driver Station”. The Robot Controller is mounted on the robot. It is either embedded within or connected to special “Hub(s)”, which in turn connect to motors, servos, and sensors. The Robot Controller is linked to the Driver Station through WiFi or WiFi Direct.

REV Robotics is the sole manufacturer of legal FTC control system components. The REV Expansion Hub connects to motors, servos, sensors, and a Robot Controller. A REV Control Hub has the same functionality of an Expansion Hub but with a built-in Robot Controller.

More information about the FTC Control System can be found below:

There are two possible control systems that can be run on an FTC robot legally:

  • REV Control Hub + REV Expansion Hub

  • RC Phone + REV Expansion Hub(s)

Important

Beginning in the 2024-2025 season, an RC Phone will no longer be legal to use as a Robot Controller. Teams will be required to use a REV Control Hub as their Robot Controller.

REV Control Hub + REV Expansion Hub#

Warning

It is of vital importance to update the firmware on REV Expansion hubs to at least version 1.8.2. It includes better protection against disconnects and improves program performance. See the REV Expansion Hub firmware update docs.

This is the standard control system for teams starting out in FTC.

The Control Hub connects to the Expansion Hub through either a RS-485 connection, or a USB-A (Control Hub side) to mini-USB (Expansion Hub-side) connection. In either case, proper strain relief and cable management should be used.

For more information on setting up the Control Hub and configuring the robot, head to REV Robotics’ Technical Resources Control Hub Guide.

A diagram of the Control Hub + Expansion Hub control system

RC Phone + REV Expansion Hub(s)#

Warning

It is of vital importance to update the firmware on REV Expansion hubs to at least version 1.8.2. It includes better protection against disconnects and improves program performance. See the REV Expansion Hub firmware update docs.

The Expansion Hub connects to the Robot Controller phone through its mini USB port. The REV Expansion Hub is reliable, as long as proper strain relief and wiring is carried out. This includes the USB Retention Mount, as well as 3D printing XT30 stress relief mounts.

For more information on setting up the Expansion Hub and configuring the robot, head to REV Robotics’ Technical Resources Expansion Hub Guide.

A diagram of the RC Phone + Expansion Hub(s) control system