Ep 066: Robot Inspection NEW RULES! (2025-02-16)

An episode of the Sunday night FRC Roundtable for FIRST Robotics students and mentors. John Stratis team mentor and seasoned FIRST Robot Inspector reviews the most common reasons teams fail inspection and what you can do to avoid failing and have a successful robot inspection. John highlights the key new rules from 2025 including that weigh in is now possible at load in and pits now close Thursdays when practice matches are complete - no more late evening pits. Other new rules include a reduced weight limit, new rules for bumpers (see the new bumper rules episode). Tips include benefits early inspection, watch for sharp edges, team numbers on all 4 sides, electrical tips, new radio rules and tips, robot light requirements, pneumatics tips, firmware rules and tips, the importance of gracious professionalism when asking for a second opinion from the lead inspector. A discussion of Q&A with the teams follows.