Robot Building for Beginners

by David Cook

Learning robotics by yourself isnt easy, but it helps when the encouragement comes from an expert whos spent years in the field. Not only does author David Cook assist you in understanding the component parts of robot development, but he also presents valuable techniques that prepare you to make new discoveries on your own.

Cook begins with the anatomy of a homemade robot and gives you the best advice on how to proceed successfully. General sources for tools and parts are provided in a consolidated list, and specific parts are recommended throughout the book. Also, basic safety precautions and essential measuring and numbering systems are promoted throughout.

Specific tools and parts covered include digital multimeters, motors, wheels, resistors, LEDs, photoresistors, transistors, chips, gears, nut drivers, batteries, and more. "Robot Building for Beginners" is an inspiring book that provides an essential base of practical knowledge for anyone getting started in amateur robotics.

Genres: Nonfiction, Research, Technology, Science

600 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

David [9^] Cook

David Cook is an engineering manager at Motorola. He has 20 years of experience as a software developer, creating everything from award-winning computer games to mobile background-check applications for police. Self-taught in electronics and basic mechanics, David explains his years of robot experiences to the average backyard scientist in a comfortable and helpful manner, without scholarly intimidation. David hosts the popular robot site RobotRoom.com.

Reviews

[Douglas Zaznaow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the second (not pictured) edition of this book by David Cook. I refer to this one, not the pictured first edition in this review.

I found this book a very comprehensive guide to building basic robots- although only one robot (David Cook named it Sandwich after the sandwich container it uses as a body) is included in this book, the parts and techniques explained could certainly help you make many more. Sandwich is a line-following robot and although I am sure it is simple by robotics standards, it is still an ambitious project for someone with little or no experience in robotics, such as me. If you plan to read this book and make Sandwich, I suggest

[Smellsofbikes · Rating 4 out of 5]

he's not joking when he says "for beginners" -- this is robot building for someone who has never done anything mechanical or electrical, and it's comprehensive and excellent, covering electronics, how to use multimeters and do soldering, math needed for figuring out what discrete components are required, and what sort of designs work well.

[Dr.genius · Rating 4 out of 5]

introduction to robot

[Hammad]

B

[Anders · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gave a very good introduction into robot building and getting hardware for projects. Such an joy to read and easy to understand. It did not just get me interested in electronics it also got me interested in control theory a subject which im currently studying. This book is highly recommended as a first introduction to electronics and also robot building.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely amazing book! I just swallowed it over 2 long nights and definitely will buy a paper copy to keep on my table for a first month or two of doing electronics. While not being a perfect book on robot building, it serves an excellent practical and simple introduction to electronics yet with advices full of wisdom of a seasoned professional.

[Mark Yoshida · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seemingly good intro to robot building. ("Seemingly" only bc I didn't do any of the actual robot-building yet.) Easy to read and understand. Besides covering practical electronics such as components and tools, it offers advice and thoughts on robotics, parts, etc.

[Tom O · Rating 1 out of 5]

yeah if by "beginners" you mean 6 year olds

[Cloay]

- available in SG NLB 629.892 (Serangoon)

[Vidya Sagar Vobbilisetti · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is for absolute beginners and best to understand about all components required

[Mark Moran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book and a fast read, especially as a precursor to reading David's excellent book, Intermediate Robot Building.