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Victor SPX User Guide
vexpro.com ctr-electronics.com
Copyright 2018, VEX Robotics Inc., Cross the Road Electronics
Updated: 2021-11-29
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is it possible to use more than one type of speed controller?
A: Yes, it is completely safe and acceptable to use multiple types of speed controllers on a single
robot.
Q: Is it safe to mount a Victor SPX directly to a robot’s metal frame?
A: It is not only safe, it’s recommended. The electronics inside the Victor SPX are in a plastic housing,
with a layer of insulation between the electronics and the aluminum heatsink. Mounting a Victor SPX
to a robot’s frame allows the robot to be used as a giant heatsink that will help keep the Victor SPX
cool.
Q: Does the Victor SPX require a fan?
A: The Victor SPX does not require a fan for typical FRC use, but if the robot is being used for practice
or many back to back matches it is a good idea to use a fan to cool the Victor SPX.
Q: What kind of electrical connectors should I use to connect wires to the Victor SPX?
A: The choice of electrical connectors is left to the user. Electrical connectors used with the Victor
SPX should be designed for use with 12AWG wire and tightly crimped. For the best electrical
connection, it is highly recommended that wire connectors are soldered to the wire they are crimped
on.
Q: Can the Victor SPX be used with control systems other than the NI roboRIO?
A: Yes, the Victor SPX may be used with any control system that is capable of PWM output or CAN
bus.
Q: There isn’t a wire connected to the center (red) PWM wire on the .1” servo connector, is this a
problem?
A: No. The center (red) PWM wire is typ5V that can be used to power PWM devices. The
Victor SPX is powered by the 12V input and does not require PWM power.
Q: What CAN bus topologies are recommended?
A: The Victor SPX is intended to be used in the daisy chain fashion. Additionally, FRC Teams should
always confirm what is considered “legal” per latest FRC competition rules.