What is the best microcontroller for PC-controlled robotics?

  • Thread starter Thread starter dingpud
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Robotics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The best microcontroller for PC-controlled robotics, particularly for transforming RC cars into robots, is the BASIC Stamp chip from Parallax. This chip is user-friendly and suitable for individuals with minimal programming experience. It supports interfacing with servos and stepper motors through various communication methods, including hardwired connections and RF signals. The BASIC Stamp also offers a dedicated Servo Controller Board that simplifies motor control by accepting commands for speed and distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of robotics concepts
  • Familiarity with servo and stepper motor operation
  • Knowledge of interfacing techniques (e.g., hardwired connections, RF signals)
  • Basic programming skills for microcontrollers
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the BASIC Stamp chip and its programming capabilities
  • Explore Parallax's Servo Controller Board and its functionalities
  • Learn about interfacing techniques for microcontrollers, focusing on Ethernet and parallel port connections
  • Investigate additional components compatible with the BASIC Stamp, such as sensors and communication equipment
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, robotics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in converting RC vehicles into PC-controlled robots, especially those with limited programming experience.

dingpud
Messages
198
Reaction score
1
I've searched through some of the already posted threads, searching for anything on microcontrollers. My search has come up with, well...not much. So far I've been able to get some info out of some beginer robotics books.

I am interested in turning one of my old RC cars into a PC controlled robot. Has anyone out there done anything similar? I'm interested in being able to control servos, stepper motors, etc., and I understand that I am going to have to interface between the two with either a hardwire (hoping ethernet, but probably parallel port) or through an RF signal.

I'm mainly looking for somewhere to start. Any suiggestions for someon with a minimum amount of programming experience?

Thanks
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
think about using a plc to run your RC car
 
I would look into using a BASIC stamp chip with some added boards from www.parallax.com or a similar site.

Their BASIC chips are programmable, easy to understand, and you can get a specific Servo Controller Board which can take commands from the chip, including speed and distance. If you look in the accessories portal, they have tons of stuff in there compatible with the chip as well, from sensors to communication equipment. Check it out!

http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=BS2PX-IC
http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=27130
http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=30068
http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=29121
http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=28823
 
Last edited by a moderator:

Similar threads

Computer controlled machine/robot?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
How can I use active filters to control a balancing robot project using LabVIEW?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Stepper Motor Torque: Up to 1.5 Nm?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Engineering Is a Career in Robotics and Controls Right for Me?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Engineering Do Control and Automation Engineers ever code?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
7K
Need help with my project -- microcontroller for DC motor controller
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Looking for general tips, unique project
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Position control for DC motor driven actuator
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
Help with an Electromagnetic tether robot
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Newbie Seeks Advice on Robotics Project
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K