Answered: USB Extensions for VEXnets

[MrSit]

So I’ve heard that the VEXnet keys should be placed such that it should not be enclosed by metal in order to keep the signal strong. One thing I’ve noticed on some robots: they use a USB extension cable to plug one side into their cortex, and the other to their VEXnet key so that they can strap their VEXnet key on the outside of their robot, for what I’m assuming is for a better signal. Is this legal and/or common practice?

[Karthik]

@MrSit

So I’ve heard that the VEXnet keys should be placed such that it should not be enclosed by metal in order to keep the signal strong. One thing I’ve noticed on some robots: they use a USB extension cable to plug one side into their cortex, and the other to their VEXnet key so that they can strap their VEXnet key on the outside of their robot, for what I’m assuming is for a better signal. Is this legal and/or common practice?

Yes, this is explicitly allowed as per <R7j>.

@VEX Robotics Competition Starstruck Game Manual

<R7> Robots are allowed the following additional “non-VEX” components:
j. A USB extension cable may be used for the sole purpose of remote mounting of a VEXnet key. The key must be mounted in the following manner.
i. The VEXnet key must be mounted such that no metal is touching the key above the VEXnet logo.
ii. We highly recommend that no metal may be within 2” of the top of the VEXnet key.