Wiring a Smart Field Controller – Global Robotics & Science Foundation

This article covers mounting and wiring a Smart Field Controller so it's ready to run on the Field.

It is written for Event Partners setting up a Smart Field Controller for an event.

Definitions of the terms used here are maintained in the central glossary.

Ready the Smart Field Controller

Diagram of a Field with red and blue alliance areas marked, showing the Smart Field Controller connected to a power outlet using its power adapter, with no other connections yet.

Secure the Smart Field Controller in a spot near the Field and close to a power source. Choose a spot where it won't be stepped on or interfered with during the event. If you need guidance, contact your Program Support Team.

Diagram of the Smart Field Controller connected to a power outlet and to a laptop using a USB cable, positioned near a Field with red and blue alliance areas marked.

Connect the Smart Field Controller to a computer using a USB cable.

Diagram of the Smart Field Controller connected to a power outlet and to a Raspberry Pi using a USB cable, positioned near a Field with red and blue alliance areas marked.

This can be either a laptop or a Raspberry Pi. The only difference is when you connect to Tournament Manager. See the VEX Tournament Manager Software User Guide for the steps for each.

Connecting the Smart Cables

Diagram of the Smart Field Controller connected to a power outlet and a laptop, with four Smart Cables running from the controller to the red and blue alliance areas on either side of the Field, two per alliance.

Plug four Smart Cables into the Smart Field Controller, two per alliance, ensuring they are long enough to reach each Driver Station on either side of the Field for teams to connect their controllers to.

Smart ports are grouped by alliance:

Blue: 6-10 and 11-15
Red: 1-5 and 16-20

Diagram of two V5 controllers per alliance, labeled 1 and 2, connected via Smart Cables to the Smart Field Controller, which is also connected to a laptop and power outlet.

When teams arrive at their alliance's side of the Field, they can connect to either Smart Cable there.

Important: Make sure that teams connect the Smart Cable to one of the controller's smart ports, NOT the middle legacy port. If they connect to the middle legacy port, they can damage their controller.

Once your Smart Field Controller is wired to the Field, see Controlling a Display. For more on the Smart Field Controller itself, see the VEX Field Control User Manual.