Robot Kits:
The first thing to
consider when choosing your robotic kit
is whether you want to work with non-programmable or
programmable kit.
Non-programmable kits: The most basic starter of robotic kits typically non-programmable robots when choosing a non-programmable kit start with a simple robot that you are sure you can tackle and then progress to advance robots. One good example of an easy to use non-programmable kit is the Soccer Jr.robot from OWI Inc.The little plastic Soccer Jr.robot not only performs a task but also offers some human interaction and control. The kit comes with a wired controller that allows it it move in any direction and capture and shoot small soccer balls(well, they are actually ping pong balls). You can even enter it in certain robot competitions.
The Hyper Line Tracker is an intermediate level nonprogrammable robotic kit from OWI Kit. Unlike Soccer Jr.,The Hyper Line Tracker requires no constant human interaction. Instead it performs one pre-programmed task following a line. You get to draw the line,which might be more fun than you think.Line following is not a useless task;many industrial robots that manage warehouses use a similar concept to navigate.
You may be required to solder parts on the circuit board connect wire and test connections. Before you begin you should review the kit and assemble instructions to be sure that the kit is something you can handle. For purchasing kits you can check this website www.robotkitsdirect .com.
Programmable Kits:
Unlike non-programmable kits
that have only
one static behavior
programmable kits give
you the ability
to modify or
change behavior.
The data cable download method is the most for todays programmable robots. Many simple micro controllers allow you to only one programming language. A micro controller contains a program, memory, and input and outputs all in a one chip package.
Getting a program into your robot
They are many ways to programmer robot with one simple programmable robotic kit for example,you use a number two pencil to fill in dots on a data card that gives a list of commands(such as turn left,turn right,or go straight). Another robot kit allows you to enter a few commands into an on board keypad.
Programming Languages:
The more sophisticated your computer, the more programming options you are likely to have. Many simple microcontrollers allow you to use only one programming language such as Basic or Assembly. On the other hand, some robot brains are like a PC computer on wheels.
TIP:
When you know how to program,you will be well on your way to making robots that do almost anything you want them to do.Great sources for programmable robot kits include Parallax,Inc.(www.parallaxinc.com) and the Robot Store(www.robotstore.com). When choosing a preprogrammed robot look for a kit that has few sample or demo programs to save you from having to develop the entire robot’s program from scratch.
Demo and sample programs:
Many programmable robots come complete with one or more sample programs. The manufacturer will often give you the source code so that you can simply copy the program into your program editing software. Having the source code is a big advantage because you can simply make any needed modifications, rather than start from scratch.
