Make: Volume 55 is all about DIY robots. Those who take this on will find that bot building is more accessible than ever. Motors, sensors, and hardware controllers are easy and cheap to acquire, and offer incredible power. Programming software can be as simple as dragging blocks of code in a graphical interface — and even the advanced, custom options like Robot Operating System use protocols that are easy to use. If you’re simply looking to get a kit that contains everything you need for a certain type of robot, the options are now nearly boundless. We scratch the surface with our overview of kit products that are great for makers — check them out to figure out what will suit your needs best. If you’re looking for a challenge beyond kits, check out the Chip-E project, and the companion balance bot EddiePlus. Looking to use Lego? Take a look at the TrotBot and the Color-Sensing Sound Sequencer for ways to get started using this platform.
Knowing how to program is an increasingly important skill in the world we are making. Thankfully, it’s never been easier to learn. Block-based languages like Scratch make it simple to start acquiring the base concepts of creating software. Python, a language I personally believe should be required for graduation from high school, is now ubiquitous […]
How I built a Centennial Challenge robot using the cheapest materials I could find.
Of all electronics tools, the multimeter is the most essential. Understand what to look for and how to use it to get the most out of your projects.
This 8-legged walker bot has a high-stepping gait that defeats obstacles, and you can build it with Lego.
Electronics manufacturer Eric Pan discusses the future of factories and electronics.
Seattle-based Makerologist created this Stranger Things wall with a very keen attention to the details.
What started as a straightforward drill bike has turned into an elaborate glowing, art bike shaped like a pony made by artist Scott Blake.
