Servo - January 2008

In re-reading my December 2007 Robotics Resources column, I spotted a small error regarding the light wavelength of the laser diodes used in DVD players. Most commercial DVD players use 650 nanometer (deep red) laser diodes, rather than the 780 nanometer (infrared) laser diodes common in CD players.

Gordon McComb Robotics Resources

• Air Compressor

• Hand Tools

• Glues and Adhesives

• Nut and Bolt Library

• Clamps

• Cables, Wire, and Shrink Tubing

• Connectors and Pins

• Soldering/Desoldering Station

• R/C Unit

• Nibbler Tool

• PC

• Software (Schematic generation, simulation, compilers)

• Sensors (US, IR, motion, etc.)

• Microcontrollers (STAMP, PICs, ATMEL)

• Storage Bins

• Breadboard System

• Multi-drawer Tool Chest

I’m still working on the infrastructure, but at a much lower level. So, how do you go about building an infrastructure? If you’re fortunate enough to be financially well positioned, then the anticipatory approach is a viable option. Assuming that you can accurately anticipate your upcoming needs, then you can assemble an infrastructure within a few weeks. Even with equipment in hand, you’ll need several weeks to learn how to operate and apply your new hardware and software.

At the other extreme is the as-needed approach, which entails purchasing tools and test equipment on an as-needed basis. While easy on the pocket, this approach often results in a loss of momentum. Stopping a project midway to await delivery of a drill or torque wrench and then learning how to use the device can derail an otherwise focused project. There is also the defocusing associated with taking time to identify the best oscilloscope, drill press, or other item.

The two approaches aren’t mutually exclusive. For example, I use a hybrid approach in which a few major purchases — drill press, multimeter, hand tools, and oscilloscope — are added to as needed. I’ve learned the hard way that when you build an infrastructure, buy the best that you can afford. Don’t be lured by an inexpensive hand tool or soldering iron that will satisfy your current project. Instead, try to anticipate what you’ll need over the next five years. It costs more to buy a cheap tool and then a more expensive tool a few months later, than to buy the right tool to begin with. I’m a big fan of eBay where — if you’re patient enough — you can find good deals on equipment that might otherwise be out of your reach.

Another option is to outsource your infrastructure by joining a well-stocked robotics club. For modest dues, you can have access to a supportive infrastructure that may prove invaluable to your success in robotics. A related approach is to extend your infrastructure with external services, such as laser cutting. I use Pololu Robotics and Electronics ( www.Pololu.com) for laser cutting on large projects. Outsourcing can be expensive, but it allows you to focus on what you do best.

As a word of warning, as you construct your infrastructure, remember that it’s tempting to use robotics as an excuse to amass a huge collection of fantastic tools and equipment. This is fine if your intent is to collect tools. However, if your goal is to produce functional robots, then do your best to avoid the seduction of gear. SV

WoW!

Finally,

Hands-on

Training for

PIC^® Microcontrollers

and PIC BASICPRO^™!

Intro Course 3 Days $1995

Program and Control: LED and LCD Displays DC, Servo, and Stepper Motors Temperature and Light sensors RS232 Serial Communications ADCs and EEPROMs Timers, Interrupts, & Clocks Visual Basic Interfaces

Columbus, OH, Jan. 21-23 Los Angeles, CA, Feb. 4-6 Huntsville, AL, Feb. 18-20 Newark, NJ, Mar. 3-5

Check the web for more dates

Advanced Course 3 Days $1995

Program and Control:

GPS Receivers RS232, 485 Serial Communications Wireless Communications IEEE Zig Bee, Bluetooth

Distance Sensors RFID Readers and Tags Motor Control W/Feedback

Minneapolis, MN, Jul. 21-23

Los Angeles, CA, Aug. 18-20 Newark, NJ, Sep. 22-24 San Diego, CA, Oct. 6-8

Check the web for more dates

www.RCGResearch.com ^RCG_Research^Phone ⁽⁸⁰⁰⁾ ^442-8272Innovative Ideas in Electronics Design

PIC and PIC BASICPRO are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microchip Technologies, Inc. RCG Research, Inc. is not affiliated with Microchip Technologies, Inc.

Extreme Robot Speed Control!

$399

6 14V - 50V - Dual 80A H-bridges - 150 A+ Peak!
6 Adjustable current limiting
6 Temperature limiting
6 Three R/C inputs - serial option
6 Many mixing options - Flipped Bot Input
6 Rugged extruded Aluminum case
6 4. 25" x 3. 23" x 1.1”