I am a newby in the world of robotics. I have a project to developp: make an equipement steered by himself when following a physical reference. I have never programmed in C language too. So that’s why I am in knowledge research process. I alredy made some Matlab programs, but the C language seems to be much more complicated.
What reference book, or other ressource do you recommend to learn the basics of microcontroller programming? ( I know there are many ways to use this language, but I’dlike to focus on what’s turning around robots and simplicity)
Some people recommend me the Robot builder bonanza, is it enough?
I will use Maxsonar WR1, mega Arduino microcontroller, a lcd screen for user interface, control buttons. The output from controller will drive a électrohydraulic valve.
I am not equiped for electronic works, hardware, connectors, etc.
What tool kit do you recommend for a beginner and what hardware (wire, connectors, design board…) do I need to be functionnal when welding and mounting my systems?
The TK-1500 kit seems enough I think…
I’ll will have few more questions in the next few weeks for my project, so be pleased to ask me questions if you have some and give me your advice.
Thanks, it really help, since I am making the list of what do I need to make my project. I will place an order soon.
Where are the digital buttons on robotshop website, I didn’t find them?
For the power supply, I would like to know what exactly do I need to make a safe connection between a 12V battery ( car type) and the microcontroller. I was thinking about a regulator that limit current intensity and voltage. ( since MEGA works with 7V to 12V current). Really important to avoid costly damages…
Welcome to the RobotShop Forum! By choosing the Arduino MEGA< you have made the learning far easier for yourself. Arduino products can be programmed in “Arduino” which is based on C. There is no “Arduino” specific book yet available, but there is significant material available online for all your needs. We suggest Arduino for all who are who to programming (arguably LEGO and VEX, as well as several other companies may have more user friendly software, though this often restricts the user to specific hardware and purchasing larger kits). The Robot Builder’s Bonanza is an excellent reference book, though it uses mainly “pseudo code” to avoid forcing the user to program in any specific language.
The Maxsonar can be easily read by the Arduino and you need only wires to connect between the two. Since you are new to prgramming, the LCD shouls have a serial interface (you would use the serial interface pins on the Arduino, as well as the 5V and GND pins (always check voltage and current requirements for the LCD before connecting in case you’ll need external power). Standard digital buttons (for example push buttons) will be connected to the digital pins on the Arduino, whereas variable input (like rotary or linear potentiometers) are connected to the analog inputs. To connect the Arduino to your computer, you will need a USB cable.
The TK-1500 Deluxe Technicial Tool Kit includes everything except cables and breadboard(s). You may also want a small sponge to wipe solder from the tip of the soldering iron (make sure the sponge is wet when you use it). The kit already comes with a multimeter, solder etc etc. and is excellent value.
If you don’t want to solder wires directly from device to device, you will need a solderless breadboard (one for each project if you don’t want to disassemble and reuse parts), as well as pre-formed jumper wires. To connect from a device to the board, you can either use the jumper wires or more flexible wires (22 gauge). Given their low price, you should get one red, one black and a third color. Use the wire cutter/stripper included with the kit.
You are correct to worry that a fully charged 12V lead acid battery might actually produce 14V. A simple voltage regulator would solve that issue (most can be used with the breakout board, but it’s up to you. We offer a range of contact and proximity sensors (including push buttons) in the sensors category.
