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Glossary

Here are some common terms and tools you may want to reference while learning about FRC electrical systems.

  • CAN — Control Area Network; a communication method used by devices in a chain. It is typically carried on 22-gauge twisted yellow and green wire and must be closed with a 120-ohm resistor.

  • PDH — Power Distribution Hub; REV hardware that regulates power to different components, such as motors, using breakers and smaller components with fuses.

  • PDP — Power Distribution Panel; CTRE hardware that regulates power to different components. It offers more slots and uses breakers.

  • RoboRIO — The previous main robot controller used in FRC.

  • Systemcore — The current main robot controller used in FRC.

  • Voltage — The potential difference in charge between two points.

  • Amperes (Amps) — The unit used to measure electric current.

  • Ohms (Resistance) — A measure of the opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit.

  • CAN Chain — Also known as the CAN bus, this refers to the connection of all devices in the chain via CAN.

  • Multimeter — A tool used to test electrical characteristics such as voltage, current, and resistance.

  • RSL — Robot Signal Light; used to indicate the status of the robot.

  • Bigus Chain - A term used to describe the method of transferring power/CAN to rotating mechanisms.

  • Battery - The power source for the robot.

  • Radio - The device used to communicate with the robot from the driver station.

  • Motors - The devices that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to move the robot.

  • Crimper — A tool used to make and complete wire crimps. Anderson crimpers are used for Anderson-style connectors, and similar tools are used for other connector types.

  • Contact - The metal part that is crimped onto bare wire.

  • Housing - The plastic part that shrouds the contact.

  • TPA - Terminal Positional assurance: This plastic part goes into Molex SL TPA housings for increased strength on the crimped connection.

  • WCP - West Coast Products; An engineering and robotics supplier known for high quality parts used in FIRST Robotics competitions

  • Pneumatics - The use of compressed air to create motion or apply force.

  • Current - The flow of electric charge through a conductor.

  • Resistance - The opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit.