Frequently Asked Questions
YouTube can be a very helpful tool. Here's a link to my channel where I explain how to build a robot and many other things!
Where can I purchase parts to build a robot?
The answer to this has a large range; from toy stores to specialty robot marketplaces and everything in between. I'll list a few of my favorites:
- local hardware stores (WD-40, zip ties, lawnmower wheels, tools that can be turned into weapons...)
- RobotMarketPlace motors, wheels, transmitters, speed controllers, batteries... all made especially for building robots
- McMaster my favorite for fancy, precise stuff with fast shipping, but beware it's expensive
- Tormach for affordable yet capable CNC mills, lathes, tooling, etc.
- AmpFlow for the best motors of all shapes and sizes, made especially for combat robots
- Robot Shop kits, motors, parts, etc.
- Amazon everything you need at possibly a cheaper price
How do I build a robot?
Where can I purchase parts to build a robot?
The answer to this has a large range; from toy stores to specialty robot marketplaces and everything in between. I'll list a few of my favorites:
- local hardware stores (WD-40, zip ties, lawnmower wheels, tools that can be turned into weapons...)
- RobotMarketPlace motors, wheels, transmitters, speed controllers, batteries... all made especially for building robots
- McMaster my favorite for fancy, precise stuff with fast shipping, but beware it's expensive
- Tormach for affordable yet capable CNC mills, lathes, tooling, etc.
- AmpFlow for the best motors of all shapes and sizes, made especially for combat robots
- Robot Shop kits, motors, parts, etc.
- Amazon everything you need at possibly a cheaper price
How do I build a robot?
I want to attend competitions to see the action up close, where can I go?
I suggest looking at these events:
FIRST - happens everywhere, for all ages, kid oriented (https://www.firstinspires.org/)
MakerFaire - a great event for the Do It Yourself culture, events happen everywhere (http://makerfaire.com/map/)
All of these events are a lot of fun and very educational. Make sure to go up and talk to the builders. We're all very friendly and helpful :)
[Unfortunately RoboGames is canceled, starting 2019]
I suggest looking at these events:
FIRST - happens everywhere, for all ages, kid oriented (https://www.firstinspires.org/)
MakerFaire - a great event for the Do It Yourself culture, events happen everywhere (http://makerfaire.com/map/)
All of these events are a lot of fun and very educational. Make sure to go up and talk to the builders. We're all very friendly and helpful :)
[Unfortunately RoboGames is canceled, starting 2019]