Getting started on robotics is not an easy feat especially if you have no knowledge. Many robotics experts have websites and blogs where you can get a lot of information on robotics. However, that is not enough for a beginner.
A robotics enthusiast that is just starting out would need to start from the basics in order to have a good foundation. Without that, you might find it difficult to understand the essence of the robot.
Tips to Start You Off
In order to avoid making some common mistakes, here is a guide on how a beginner should go about learning about robotics.
Begin with Electronics
You cannot learn about robotics effectively if you know nothing about electronics. You are not required to go to college and earn a certificate. All you need are the basics. Anything with software is electronic. Beginners may find robot software a tough nut to crack if they do not learn some basics in electronics.
Apart from browsing online and finding literature on the same, you can also get some appropriate tutorials to help you along.
Read!
Books have always been a great way to learn anything. There are books on robotics that are simplified enough for a beginner to understand. Therefore, start a nice collection of books on robotics as soon as you can and start reading.
You can access books such as Robot Builder’s Bonanza and Robot Building for Beginners which any aspiring robotics enthusiast must have. In addition, you should consider subscribing to magazines such as Robot magazine.
Avoid Going Overboard
It is easy to get excited about robots. One mistake many admirers of robots make is getting wildly imaginative with what the robots can or should do. It would obviously be nice to have a robot that can do laundry, iron and put it away but let’s not get too caught up. Beginners are advised to start small.
If you have no knowledge of mechanics or electronics, you are better off getting a kit.
Learn Programming
There is nothing wrong with learning how to program your robots. You will have a more satisfying experience with robotics if you can program them. Besides, it is always great to learn a new skill. Many robotic websites offer crash courses on programming complete with easy to follow tutorials.
Get Involved in Contests
Once you have gained some knowledge on robotics and maybe build a simple one of your own, you may need to enter your first contest and see how competent you are. You will need to plan your robot ahead of time and set some goals related to what you would like your robot to do.
If you have not joined a club yet, you may consider finding one that you can join. This will make it easy for you to access contests and also to receive support from more experienced members. Most robotic clubs run annual robotic events and contests.
Tinker on Your Robots Regularly
Practice makes perfect works on your new hobby too. This is especially important if you are considering entering a contest. However, if you only think about your robots when you are entering a contest, you will find it difficult to catch up and your progress will be slow.
Additionally, record everything you do and every progress you make. Journaling is
Learn from Others
It is especially necessary to read about mistakes that others have made so that you can avoid them. Also, work with others. A club will be helpful as you will see what others who may be more skilled than you are doing and learn how they got there.
Loosen Your Purse Strings
You will need to spend a few coins on your new hobby if you hope to enjoy it and make it a success. Being too economical will lead you to counterfeit components which will not serve you well in the long run.
The reality is robotics is not a cheap hobby to have it is worth your while.
Ask Questions
Conclusion
There are robotic platforms and websites where you can get a lot of useful information and also ask a lot of questions. However, if you can find a forum of like-minded enthusiasts, you will learn more and progress faster in your robotic endeavors.
