Are there pros and cons for the location of the VEXnet Match Controller (that’s the gizmo with a USB port and 2 Ethernet ports SKU 275-1401 from the VEXnet Field Controller Kit which is now out of stock )? For example, does keeping it near the TM computer as opposed to the traditional mounting to the field perimeter pose a problem other than now having to run 2 Ethernet wires to the field instead of just one long USB cable?
The VEXnet Match Controller wants to be as close to the device controlling it - be it laptop/desktop/raspberry Pi. Mainly the USB cable should not be too long. The match controller to driver station cables can run long (using ethernet cables).
My preferred setup is to use Raspberry Pi to control fields and drive pit and audience displays. For fields we have moved from VEXnet Field controllers to V5 Brains running Field Control App - we get a lot of debug info and the V5 Brain Field App sends info to Tournament manager about teams and readiness. Long term that is the route to go.
The Raspberry Pi or its derivatives (Le Potato) as the cost effective way to go. Quick reboots, swap out, and cost effective per field.
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Oh, missed this. So the match controller can be plugged via USB into the Pi and then same Pi can drive field display AND match controller? This is a life saver (well, wire saver) if true. Any special setup needs to be done on the machine running the TM “server” for this?
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In our setup, we have a plate attached to the back of each field monitor with a 4-socket powerbar, Pi, field controller, and a network switch. Lots of zipties keep “helpful” volunteers from unplugging everything. There is a quick-release VESA mount in there too (thanks lscap), to separate the monitor from the stand for transport/storage.
We mount these field monitors on a 36" tall stand separate from the field perimeter. The tall stand works well with raised fields as well as floor-mounted fields.
Our preference (for reliability) is to have everything wired with network cables and provide separate power to the monitors and equipment. I know there are some who prefer wireless, and even some people use POIP monitors.
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Nope, other than reading TM guide for raspberry pi - documentation at ep.recf.org
downloads here: https://vextm.dwabtech.com
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