How to Make a Parallax BOE-Bot Using the Basic Stamp Chip

This instructable shows the construction and modification of the Parallax BOE-Bot Basic Stamp Robot.

Step 1 Identifying Parts and Grommet-izing the metal base.

First you want to make sure you have the parts ready, then fit the 3 grommets onto the metal body. Afterwords, add the straight pin and rubber ball.

Comments

[johnet326]

I bought a boe bot couple years ago....no previous experience with electronics or robots......it was easy to build...easy to program. Parallax responded quickly to a couple questions in the early going. Still use the kit to experiment with sensors. Would like to get the tracks at some point. Wheels only work well on tile floors. Only problem I've had is with the tires. After a year or so they break. Another reason tracks might be better. Very positive experience for a non-technical, retired transit driver.

[kingghaffari]

Its much too complicated for me... but thank you for joining the N.G.C.A and adding your instructable. ^_

[mrbob1000]

i think i might just have to buy one of these... even though i am already involved with larger robots (FIRST robotics)

[KenGriffin]

Oh really? I am as well, the 304 RoboGriffins from Philadelphia. What team are you with? (Also, if this is your first introduction to electrical engineering, you could buy this as a kit to learn how it works, then move on to cheaper and more versatile stamps and chips as stated above.)

[Itsgoofytime]

Hey, 494 Goodrich Martians

[mrbob1000]

im on 2377 and i cant wait for the 09 control system!

[dombeef]

1612

[GWJax]

Yes the BS2 is for the beginner but it also can do alot of other thing as well and a good starting place to learn about robots, I use the BS2 and will be using the SB2p40 for my Elvinator Project Plus adding the PIC16F877 to it as well so don't say is junk when its really not you just need to know how to really program it. anyway nice mod and looking foward to seeing more.

[KenGriffin]

No, the BS2 is NOT junk. Although a bit pricey, it is an amazing introduction to robotics. we just happen to use them in my intro to robotics and engineering course. With good programming, the possibilities are endless! - Ken

[GWJax]

I agree with you Ken. Another way around the price is to buy the components and build your own stamp for about 15-20 bucks and about 1 1/2 of work in soldering. so if price is an issue go this route. GWJax

[Itsgoofytime]

Do not buy a Basic Stamp 2. It is Overpriced and underpowered. Basic Stamp 2 Price: 49.00 Speed: 20 MHz 4,000 instructions per second RAM: 32 Bytes EEPROM (program) memory: 2000 bytes 24 Pins, 16 I/0 Now lets look at a 18F1320: Price: 2.07 Speed: 32KHz to 40MHz up to 10,000,000 instructions per second! RAM: 256 Bytes EEPROM (program) Memory: 4K bytes 18 pins, 16 I/O Now you see that the Basic stamp 2 is junk.

[nf119]

Basic Stamps is for beginners. One good thing is that they don't need a programmer. There are also some other benefits for even advance users, such as the bit in functions and the large sink/source of the output pins.

[Itsgoofytime]

but for that price you can get a complete 18F1320 Tutor and programmer. www.blueroomelectronics.com Look at the Junebug, a 18F1320 Tutor and a PICkit 2 programmer in one. I have 2 of them. The BS2 can sink/source 20ma. The 18F1320 can sink/source 25ma.

[KenGriffin]

I didn't buy this BS2 or the kit! I am doing a summer robotics and engineering program at a university. This was the first project we did just to get into the programming and circuitry. Thanks for the info on the 18F1320 though!

[Itsgoofytime]

Not a problem, hate it when people buy overpriced junk.

[LinuxH4x0r]

Cool! I need to get in to robotics.....