📌 Rules_

Welcome to the OpenVCU Community Forums. This is a space for hardware developers, EV converters, and embedded engineers to collaborate on the OpenVCU ecosystem. To keep this board useful and safe, all users must adhere to the following operational parameters. ## 1. Safety is Non-Negotiable You are dealing with high-voltage traction packs (often 400V+) and heavy automotive machinery. * **Never** post "hacks" that bypass hardware safety interlocks or contactor checks. * Clearly state if a piece of code or wiring diagram is untested or experimental. > **WARNING:** If you post dangerous, negligent, or intentionally malicious hardware configurations, your post will be flagged, your account will be locked, and your Security Level (SL) will be permanently revoked. ## 2. Search Before Asking Before starting a new thread, use the Search function to see if your issue has already been solved. Additionally, check the [OpenVCU Wiki](/wiki) for official hardware abstractions and pinout diagrams. If the answer is in the Wiki, your thread may be locked. Be sure to write about the time you found what you were looking for and how. ## 3. Format Your Code Do not paste raw unformatted code or screenshots of code. Always use Markdown code blocks (three backticks) so others can read and copy it easily. **Example:** ```cpp // Correct way to post snippets if (bms_voltage > MAX_VOLTAGE) { contactor_open(); System::halt("BMS Overvoltage Triggered"); } ``` ## 4. Constructive Diagnostics Only Hardware debugging is frustrating. Blown components happen. * No flaming, insults, or gatekeeping. * If a user posts a faulty schematic, constructively point out the error and link to the correct documentation. ## 5. The Flagging System If you see spam, severe hostility, or physically dangerous advice, use the **⚑ Flag** button. This sends the post directly to the Mod Queue for SL 100+ administrators to review. *** *By posting on this forum, you acknowledge that you have read and accepted the [OpenVCU Legal & Safety Disclaimer](/legal).* "An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes, which can be made, in a very narrow field." -Niels Bohr

## Community Code of Conduct: Inclusion & General Behavior OpenVCU is a community of builders, engineers, and tinkerers. We are united by a shared passion for EV conversions, and we believe that innovation thrives best in an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. To maintain this standard, all members are expected to adhere to the following behavioral guidelines: ### 1. Absolute Inclusion & Respect We are unequivocally committed to providing a welcoming, harassment-free experience for everyone. We actively support and welcome members of the LGBTQIA+ community, all racial and ethnic minorities, individuals of all genders and gender identities, neurodivergent individuals, and people of all physical abilities. * **Zero Tolerance for Hate:** Discriminatory language, slurs, transphobia, homophobia, racism, sexism, or any form of hate speech will result in an immediate and permanent ban. * **Respect Identities:** Treat your fellow builders with basic human dignity. ### 2. Constructive Dialogue When we discuss hardware, firmware, and high-voltage safety, disagreements will happen. However, those discussions must remain technical, objective, and respectful. * **Attack the problem, not the person.** * If you spot a dangerous flaw in someone's build, point it out clearly and constructively. "That contactor wiring could arc under load" is helpful. Belittling them is not. ### 3. No Gatekeeping Everyone starts somewhere. Whether a user is wiring their first 12V relay or programming a custom CAN bus state machine, treat their questions with patience. Do not shame users for asking "basic" questions—especially when high-voltage safety is on the line. ### 4. Enforcement If you see a post or interaction that violates this code of conduct, please use the **⚑ Flag** button immediately. Our moderation team will review the queue, redact offending content, and remove users who refuse to respect the community standards. *We are here to build the future of mobility together. Keep the grid positive.* "An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes, which can be made, in a very narrow field." -Niels Bohr