FIRST TECH Challenge

ORTOP utilizes the program developed and distributed by the FIRST Tech Challenge, in which high school age students learn to design and build robots with both radio and autonomous controlled behavior using the Tetrix Robot System. This system uses Pitsco Tetrix parts and a LEGO Mindstorm NXT Robotic System with a choice of 3 software platforms; NXT-G, Robot C or Labview. The program includes a 10- to 12-week period in which the students form teams, develop robots that can perform the tasks defined in the Challenge, then compete with, and against, other teams at scrimmages and the Championship. Through this process, youngsters experience the fun and excitement of solving complex problems in a positive and supportive team environment. The Challenge is played each year on a 12' x 12' field. Each year a uniquely challenging game is created to challenge the FTC teams. The new focus of the FTC program is to challenge teams to design, build, program and operate robots that can move over uneven surfaces, manipulate objects and makes use of sensor technology.

THE 2009 FIRST Tech Challenge ---

Click Here for game details

FTC Schedule in Oregon
The 2009 -2010 ORTOP FTC schedule: click here for post on web OR Click here for pdf of schedule with details

FTC Awards

The details of the award structure for the Fall 2009 season.

ORTOP & FTC Registration

NATIONAL TEAM REGISTRATION: ALL teams wanting to compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge must register with the national FIRST organization and pay a $275 registration fee. Teams can order the robot after paying the registration fee. Tetrix Robot information

FTC Registration opened on May 4, 2009. FTC Competition Kits can be ordered at time of registration. The FTC Robot kits ordered May, June, July and August will ship in August. There will be a separate registration for the ORTOP FTC Challenge Quaifying Tournament and Championship to be held in February 2010.

FIRST TECH Challenge Frequently Asked Questions about the 2009 Season.

To Register you team for the 2009 FTC Season - click here

ORTOP TEAM FEST DAYS, QUALIFYING TOURNAMENTS & CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT REGISTRATION
ORTOP FEST DAYS---- ONLINE Registration for ORTOP Fest Days will be posted by 9/15/09
QUALIFYING TOURNAMENTS --Teams are invited to participate in the Oregon FTC Qualifying tournament with possiblity of advancement to the Oregon FTC Championship. Online registration for qualifying tournaments will begin in December 16. Cost $75
CHAMPIONSHIP: By advancement only, no registration. The cost will be $50.