Where can I get dirt cheap servos?

[jehan60188]

I'm tired of blinking-LED programs, so I figure I'd experiment with a shift register (74HC595) and after reading about it a bit, it seems like I can use 3 of them on one arduino to control 18 (24, actually, I guess) servos.

the magic number is 18, since that's how many articulation points are on a hexapod.

anyways, the cheapest I can find is 2.65 each, which still puts me at almost $50 for motors alone! After additional hardware, the platform could be pushing $100, which is more than I want to spend >_<

can anyone beat that price?
thanks!

 

[Achy47]

I understand your frustration with the high cost of the servos for your project. Have you considered using cheaper alternatives such as hobby servos or continuous rotation servos? These can be found for as low as $2-3 each and can still provide movement for your hexapod. Additionally, you could look into using 3D printed or DIY servo brackets to further reduce costs.

Another option could be to use a microcontroller with more output pins, such as the Teensy 3.2 which has 34 pins, allowing you to control more servos without the need for shift registers. This could potentially save you money in the long run.

It's also worth mentioning that there are many online resources and forums dedicated to DIY robotics and hexapod projects where you may be able to find cost-saving tips and advice from other hobbyists.

I hope these suggestions help you in finding a more affordable solution for your project. Best of luck!