Answered: VexNet Key Rule

[NissanskylineN1]

Hello,

I was reading the competition rules yesterday and I noticed a rule regarding the VexNet key:

Rule R7JII:
No metal may be within 2” of the top of the VEXnet key.

My question is:

Why?

AFAIK, the VexNet works using 802.1.1 G Wifi, which is/was used with most WiFi routers, and the signal was adequate for a normal house. I also doubt that the signal could be interfered/cut off by the metal, as it can go through a normal household wall.

So, my question is: Why the heck is this rule in place, as the furthest possible distance that you can be from your robot is ~25 feet?

[Karthik]

@NissanskylineN1

Hello,

I was reading the competition rules yesterday and I noticed a rule regarding the VexNet key:

My question is:

Why?

AFAIK, the VexNet works using 802.1.1 G Wifi, which is/was used with most WiFi routers, and the signal was adequate for a normal house. I also doubt that the signal could be interfered/cut off by the metal, as it can go through a normal household wall.

So, my question is: Why the heck is this rule in place, as the furthest possible distance that you can be from your robot is ~25 feet?

This rule is in place to minimize the chance of teams inadvertently weakening their own VEXnet signal.

[NissanskylineN1]

But its Wifi G… This stuff can go through residential houses. Its a real PITA because it adds another issue of mounting the key. Please remove this rule for next year.

[Karthik]

@NissanskylineN1

But its Wifi G… This stuff can go through residential houses. Its a real PITA because it adds another issue of mounting the key. Please remove this rule for next year.

The Game Design Committee reviews all rules every year; we’ve made specific note of this concern.

[NissanskylineN1]

Thank you very much, Karthik.

[Karthik]

@NissanskylineN1

Thank you very much, Karthik.

You’re welcome.