FRCTools

R602       *Other batteries are only allowed for peripheral devices and LEDs only. COTS USB battery packs with a capacity of 100Wh or less (27,000mAh at 3.7V), with 5V/5A max output or 12V/5A max output using USB-PD per port, and batteries integral to a self-contained camera (e.g., GoPro style camera) may be used provided they are:

A.      connected only using unmodified COTS cables,

B.      charged according to manufacturer recommendations,

C.      securely fastened to the ROBOT,

D.      not supplement power to any of the ROBOT actuators, and

E.      not used by any devices receiving control signals from the ROBOT control system (i.e., COTS USB battery packs must remain electrically isolated from the ROBOT power systems.). Exceptions to part E of this rule are:

                                                                           i.      powered USB Hubs, and

                                                                         ii.      ROBOT CONTROLLER smartphones.

For example, a REV Blinkin powered by a COTS USB battery pack cannot be controlled by signals from a REV Control or Expansion Hub. Any device receiving signals from a REV Control or Expansion Hub must be powered by the main ROBOT battery.

Similar Rules

Rule R605
R605       *Batteries are not ballast. No batteries other than those allowed per R601 and R602 are allowed on the ROBOT, whether or not they are being used to supply power.
Rule R601
R601       *Battery limit – everyone has the same main ROBOT power. The only legal source of electrical energy for the ROBOT control system and actuation during the competition, the ROBOT battery, must be 1 and only 1 approved 12V NiMH main battery. The ROBOT main battery must have a COTS equivalent in-line 20A ATM mini blade fuse installed. Installed connectors may be replaced with other popular connectors such as Anderson Powerpole, XT30, or any connector with a comparable power rating. The only allowed ROBOT main power battery packs are:
Rule R606
R606       *Batteries should be securely mounted. The ROBOT battery must be secured such that it will not dislodge during vigorous ROBOT interaction including if the ROBOT is turned over or placed in any arbitrary orientation. Batteries must be mounted such that they are protected from direct contact with other ROBOTS or any sharp edges.
Rule R603
R603       *Charge batteries with safe connectors. Any battery charger used to charge a ROBOT battery must have a corresponding polarized connector installed.