Post by Dingo on Aug 4, 2004 11:23:47 GMT 10
Everyone robot needs "brains". This is usually acheived by controlling the robot with a microcontroller (a chip that can take inputs from switches, LDRs, etc and you program it using a computer to determine outputs)
There are many types of microcontrollers available but the best place to start is with the PICAXE (www.rev-ed.co.uk/picaxe/)
These IC's (chips) are cheap ($5-20+ each) and don't require any expensive hardware to program them (programming done via cable frm computer to 3 pins on the chips)
They were designed as a way UK students could learn about microcontrollers but are powerful enough to be very useful (actual chip is a commercial design with PICAXE bot loading code added)
The distributor in Australia is www.microzed.com.au/index2.htm
but they are sold elsewhere:
oatleyelectronics.com/
www.kaytech.com.au/index.php?cPath=24_47
and elsewhere
My best advice is start with a kit, I chose the CHI-035 project board which is included in the AXE-002 /035 pack sold by MicroZed. I would also buy the 18X version instead on the 18A that is included (merely adds $4 to the order). This is becuase the 18X has more functions and more memory.
The packs come with everything needed to get started (except batteries and maybe some LEDs - but these are available at any Dick Smith etc). Believe me, with a project board you can have your PICAXE program controlling LEDs, motors, piezo buzzers etc within minutes.
Also there is heaps of docmentation that is accessible by newbies etc as well as support documents and support forums etc
PICAXE is popular in UK, AUS, and NZ and is the best and cheapest way to start giving your robot "brains".
There are many types of microcontrollers available but the best place to start is with the PICAXE (www.rev-ed.co.uk/picaxe/)
These IC's (chips) are cheap ($5-20+ each) and don't require any expensive hardware to program them (programming done via cable frm computer to 3 pins on the chips)
They were designed as a way UK students could learn about microcontrollers but are powerful enough to be very useful (actual chip is a commercial design with PICAXE bot loading code added)
The distributor in Australia is www.microzed.com.au/index2.htm
but they are sold elsewhere:
oatleyelectronics.com/
www.kaytech.com.au/index.php?cPath=24_47
and elsewhere
My best advice is start with a kit, I chose the CHI-035 project board which is included in the AXE-002 /035 pack sold by MicroZed. I would also buy the 18X version instead on the 18A that is included (merely adds $4 to the order). This is becuase the 18X has more functions and more memory.
The packs come with everything needed to get started (except batteries and maybe some LEDs - but these are available at any Dick Smith etc). Believe me, with a project board you can have your PICAXE program controlling LEDs, motors, piezo buzzers etc within minutes.
Also there is heaps of docmentation that is accessible by newbies etc as well as support documents and support forums etc
PICAXE is popular in UK, AUS, and NZ and is the best and cheapest way to start giving your robot "brains".
