Answered: VEXnet Key Extension Cable Length

VEX Robotics Competition Discussion VRC > Skyrise (14/15)
#1

Hiya,

Just a question regarding the length of a non-vex USB extension cable, is there a specific length it has to be or can I use any length? I’ve recently purchased a 1 metre cable and am wondering if it is legal?

On rule <R7>:

  • Robots are allowed the following additional “non-VEX” components:
    h. 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. (See the below image for reference)
    i. The VEXnet key must be mounted such that no metal is touching the key above the
    VEXnet logo.
    ii. No metal may be within 2” of the top of the VEXnet key.*

So it doesn’t say anything about length but then in rule <R5>:
Robots may be built ONLY from Official Robot Components from the VEX Robotics Design System
unless otherwise specifically noted within these rules.
a. During inspections if there is a question about whether something is an official VEX component,
a team will be required to provide documentation to an inspector, which proves the
component’s source. Such types of documentation include receipts, part numbers, or other
printed documentation.
b. Only the VEX Robotics Design System Components specifically designed to be used for Robot
construction are allowed. Using additional components outside their typical purpose is against
the intent of the rule (i.e. please don’t try using VEX apparel, competition support materials,
packaging or other non-robot products on a VEX Robotics Competition Robot).
c. Products from the VEXpro, VEX IQ, or VEX Robotics by Hexbug product line cannot be used
for robot construction, unless specifically allowed by a clause of <R7>. Products from the
VEXpro or VEX IQ, or VEX Robotics by Hexbug product line which are also cross listed as part
of the VEX product line are legal.
d. Official Robotics Components from the VEX Robotics Design System which have been
discontinued are still legal for competition use. However teams must be cognizant of <R5a>

Sorry if this question has been asked before but I’ve had a look around and haven’t seen anything about the length.

#2

As long as the non-VEX USB extension cable is being used **solely **for the remote mounting of your VEXnet Key, you may use one of any length. Using an excessively long cable, longer than needed to remote mount your VEXnet Key in the desired location, could be considered ballast and thus put this cable in violation of the rule. In summary, try not to use a cable that’s longer than you need.

#3

Thank you Karthik, that’s cleared things up for me!

#4

You’re welcome!

1 Like
#5