Frequently Asked Questions
Overview
This page is a compilation of some frequently asked questions we receive from teams, along with the answers to these questions.
General
Where should I go for support and RMAs?
You should contact WestCoast Products (support@westcoastproducts.com) for all support issues.
In the event that WCP cannot help you resolve your issue; they will elevate it to Vivid-Hosting.
Mounting
Can I put my VH-109 in a 3D printed enclosure or mount?
You can 3D print custom brackets to help mount the VH-109.
However, we highly recommend that teams DO NOT put the VH-109 into an enclosure. Enclosing the VH-109 will trap heat and potentially reduce the performance of the VH-109.
Can I mount my VH-109 radio near motors?
The VH-109 is a 6 GHz device. Devices that operate on this spectrum have different RF propagation characteristics. We suggest mounting your VH-109 away from motors if at all possible.
Wiring
How Should I Power My Radio?
After a successful deployment of the VH-109 radio at the 2024 FIRST Championship and many offseason competitions, we have learned quite a bit about how teams should wire radios. Here are some of the best practices:
Teams should strive to reduce the number of failure points. This means reducing the number of devices (i.e. removing power modules and regulators) that are between the radio and the robot's power distribution system.
If possible, do not use an ethernet switch. Instead, we recommend that teams take advantage of the extra ethernet ports on the VH-109.
If you NEED a switch, teams should still plug the RoboRIO directly into the Radio's RIO port.
Configuring / Programming
Firmware
How do I know what firmware version is on my radio?
There are several ways to know what firmware version is on your radio. Check out this page to see them.
What firmware version is required at official events?
For the 2025 FRC season, all radios must be on at least 1.2.6. Any radios running a version prior to this will be automatically updated to the latest release when they configure their radios using the Radio Kiosk tool at an official event.
Practicing
Do I need a second radio?
Technically no, however, we strongly recommend using a second radio as an access point for several reasons:
Simplify your at home practice setup.
Better mimics the setup that will be used at official competitions.
Take advantage of using the 6 GHz band, which has significantly less noise than the more common 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
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