Thanks for all the awesome feedback everyone, I didn't anticipate it creating this much of a discussion! These are all things we've discussed in lead up to release, and while it's certainly a risk that something will be done to shut it down, I think it would be very sad if that was to happen. Either way - this mod will still exist - either by using this method, or by direct sensing. In fact, if the worst was to happen and the protocol changed (and we couldn't adapt to that change) moving to a direct sensing daughterboard would be a simple and manageable option. However, as russdx points out, reading from the node bus is a far more elegant and 'leave no trace' solution, so in terms of the mod scene, I would be disappointed if we couldn't pursue this as a viable alternative to croc clips and t-splicing. I would love it if Stern embraced this a great thing for pinball.
Now as far as the actual tech goes, I just want to do a quick shout out to Ashram56 my hacking partner in crime who always provides invaluable counsel in these dark endeavours. Vincent is currently working on a SAM sensing kit for his Tron mod (more bus hacking), so make sure you check that out, and give him props for being an awesome and clever dude.
Quoted from russdx:I also think a stand alone lollipop board mod by itself which decodes the bus then using its config allows you to act on all the various game events would be amazing and open the door for so many mod makers. Start creating some truly game integrated mods.
A couple of people have reached out already and we are certainly open to supporting modders (like @novacade) who have great ideas and want to take them further. All the current mods that use this tech will be hard-coded in terms of the events they focus on, however the plan is to evolve the events UI for the lollypops so that it is fully configurable much like the Pinpoint. I'm all about enabling people who might not have the programming skills to pull off their pinball ideas - so completely relate to what you're saying!