Troubleshooting a robot, building a custom robot or simply searching for the right part is significantly easier when there are others who are not only knowledgeable but are willing and able to help.
RobotShop Help
RobotShop understands that selecting the ideal robot, building a custom robot and troubleshooting are important to users.
LEARNING CENTER:
The RobotShop Learning Center is intended to provide both new and seasoned robot builders with the tools, information and contacts they need to build ever increasingly complex robots. The Learning Center itself is a dynamic tool which will grow and change over time.FORUM:
Membership is free and anyone can post threads about any robot-related topic ranging from generic ideas for robots to specific/complex programming issues. The robotic community has proven time and time again to be open to helping new hobbyists. We hope that you too will share the knowledge and skills you gain when building robots.SUPPORT CENTER:
RobotShop’s staff includes technicians and engineers capable of helping you with a variety of different issues pertaining to products offered through RobotShop Distribution Inc.MANUFACTURER:
Product Information: Many parts manufacturers try to provide as much information about their products as possible. Often manuals can be downloaded prior to purchase and you should strongly consider looking through the manual to see if it has been written in a way you can understand. RobotShop makes every attempt to include as much information about a product in the product page. Information such as PDF files, ZIP Files (including software), Videos and more can be found at the bottom of each product description when available.Technical Support: Most manufacturers offer technical support either by telephone or e-mail. These technicians and engineers are specialized in their products and as such should be asked only specific information pertaining to their product lineup. Users are encouraged to contact RobotShop before contacting a manufacturer directly.
Forums: Some manufacturers have created forums to encourage users of their products to share information, questions and ideas. Often these forums encourage users to submit their successfully completed projects (using their parts).
Research
Search engines: Google and other search engines are proving to be the fastest way for users to find the information they need. If you find parts or additional information that you found useful, do not hesitate to contact RobotShop via the Support Center.
Robotic Books:
Do not be fooled into thinking that a robotic book that came out in 2003 is not relevant in 2008. While new, technologically advanced products are brought to market every day, understanding the basics/fundamentals is what will help you in the long run.
Robot Magazines:
Robot magazines contain a wealth of information, and back issues can often be ordered. There is often a section that educates the reader about an aspect of robotics and sections that showcase other's accomplishments.
Community
Clubs:
The robotic community has proven time and time again to be open to helping new hobbyists. We hope that you too will share the knowledge and skills you gain when building robots.
Schools: If you are a student in high school, college or university, there are most likely ressources within your school library available to you free of charge. Consider also talking with teachers (some may be more interested and/or available than others to help you).
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://community.robotshop.com/tutorials/show/basics-where-can-i-find-help-and-resources