Just bought an Arduino... what now?

So I have some limited knowledge of programming, and I just bought an Arduino Uno. I know its not required, but Id like a shield that would be useful for robotics. Anyone know of a shield that can run like 2 motors and 2 servos? Also some slots for inputs. Anyways, I'd really like to do it with a shield so it looks neater in the end. Im not a fan of breadboards (mainly how overwhelming they can look)

There are a number of motor shields out there that will fit your

request. I would suggest, however, that you purchase one of those overwhelming breadboards to help yourself get up to speed on using your new development board. Many sites that you will find will suggest a similar path as they show you how to prograrm your arduino and control outputs and read inputs. You don’t need a monster that has its own power input posts, but, something smaller that is about 10cm/4in long with a trough down the center would be good. Get yourself some hookup wire, LEDs, POTs, Switches, Resistors, Caps, vregs, Transistors, IR receiver (36-40khz), IR LEDs, Ultrasonic sensor, a battery pack.

You don’t need all of what I mentioned immediately, but, it is a good selection of components to have to learn to work with.

To answer your question: http://www.ebay.com/itm/L293D-Motor-Shield-Board-for-Arduino-MEGA-UNO-Duemilanove-Best-Quality-A808-/181229016054?_trksid=p2054897.l4275 should fit the bill.

thanks!

Thanks guys! I do own a breadboard and Im working through the ladyada tutorial series and doing well. The reason i asked for a shield was just for looks when I put the bot together. That shield looks perfect by the way, and im placing an order now!

 

PS: that reference guide looks like it would make my head explode lol

Check out some tutorials

A good place to start with Arduino would be Jeremy’s tutorials on YouTube, his username is sciguy14.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCxzA9_kg6s&list=PLFD13F9C277587F06