Advantages of New goBILDA Parts For FTC Decode Season (Explained!)

In the demanding environment of FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) robotics, every component matters. To build a truly competitive robot, we as FTC teams need reliable parts that optimize performance and minimize headaches. goBILDA launched two key parts for this FTC Decode 2025-2026 season that can significantly enhance your robot's capabilities: the 6V Servo Power Injector and the Floodgate Power Switch. These new parts were pretty impressive when I looked at it first glance, especially seeing the level of robustness they hold - which is so critical in winning bots as robot failure in the middle of comp. is out of question! Without further ado - lets dive in!

Unleashing Servo Potential with the 6V Servo Power Injector

6V Servo Power Injector

FTC robots run on a 12-volt battery, but most servos prefer a 5-7 volt range. While the typical REV Control Hub provides 5 volts to the servos, this can be a limiting factor, especially when using high-power servos or multiple servos simultaneously. The goBILDA 6V Servo Power Injector addresses this limitation by drawing power directly from your robot's 12V battery and providing a stable 6V source dedicated to your servos.

Benefits of the 6V Servo Power Injector:

• Increased Torque and Speed: Higher voltage and dedicated current allow servos to perform at their best, delivering more torque for manipulating game elements and faster movements for quick maneuvers.

• Reliable Performance: Avoid brownouts (reduction in voltage) and unexpected servo shutdowns caused by overloaded Control Hub regulators, ensuring consistent and predictable robot behavior throughout matches.

• Expanded Servo Usage: Freely utilize a greater number of high-power servos (Note: this FTC season, the servo limit is 10) without worrying about current limitations, allowing for more complex and ambitious robot designs.

• Optimized Power Management: Separate servo power from the Control Hub, ensuring other essential robot components receive the power they need without interruptions.

Important Considerations:

• Wiring is Key: Ensure proper wiring of the Servo Power Injector to avoid shorts or damage to your electronics. Check the documentation provided by goBILDA and FIRST for guidance.

• Servo Behavior when Disabled: Be aware that servos connected to a power injector may behave differently when the robot is disabled compared to those connected directly to the Control Hub.

Ensuring Reliable Power Delivery with the Floodgate Power Switch

A robust power switch is paramount for safe and dependable robot operation. The goBILDA® Floodgate Power Switch offers a more durable and reliable alternative to standard switches, helping teams avoid common pitfalls.

Benefits and Uses for FTC Teams:

• Enhanced Reliability: The Floodgate's robust construction reduces the likelihood of issues like weak solder joints and loose connections, common problems with some standard switches.

• Flexible Installation: The included mounting bracket seamlessly integrates with goBILDA® and REV systems, enabling versatile mounting options within your robot's structure.

• Safety First: A durable and reliable switch minimizes the risk of accidental disconnection or breakage, preventing uncontrolled robot movements or potential electrical hazards.

• Seamless Compatibility: The Floodgate's XT30 connectors ensure easy integration with your existing FTC robot power system.

• User-Friendly: The straightforward on/off functionality makes it simple for teams to control robot power, even during intense competition moments.

  

  Floodgate Power Switch

Important Considerations:

• Mounting: The FTC rules require the main power switch to be readily accessible but protected from accidental contact with field elements or other robots. Consider mounting the Floodgate switch inside the robot frame, facing outwards, and potentially behind a protective cover or side shield with an opening for manual operation.

• Wire Management: Keep the wiring to the Floodgate switch neat and secure, preventing entanglement or damage during robot operation. 

Building a Winning Combination

By incorporating these new goBILDA parts for FTC - the 6V Servo Power Injector and the Floodgate Power Switch into your FTC robot, you're building a more reliable, powerful, and ultimately more competitive robot. Knowing that your robot's fundamental systems are robust and dependable, will allow your FTC team to focus on innovation and strategy. Another note is that these parts haven't been released by goBILDA yet, as they are expected to be released around kickoff date, so additional contingencies are yet to arise. Hopefully this blog gave you some expectations and a sense of how these parts may help your robot in the future.

Good luck teams!