Almost every piece of electronics we touch is microprocessor controlled. Microprocessors, or microcomputer, are embedded in most of our everyday tools and appliances. One of the most important thing to teach our children is how microprocessors work. We are becoming dependent upon microprocessor controlled devices to the point that our children's quality of life will depend upon their skill and adapting to them. This Super Saturday course on microprocessor controlled robots will introduce the concept of computer programming and the control of a toy robot using student generated programs downloaded in the micro controllers.
One of the most famous commercially available microprocessor controlled robot is call the Boe-Bot sold by Parallax. It uses a microcontroller called the basic stamp that can be programmed in Basic computer language. This robot is high quality and popular, however the cost of $150 takes it too a level where many student cannot afford this toy since many of these toy just sit in the corner of closets after their fun is over. Some student move on to more challenging projects. Not doubt the quality of the Boe-bot is good and there is a lot of online libraries of programs that can be borrowed and tried.
With the goal of keeping the cost of this course under $50, I have started talking with Rocket Brand Studios about their kit called the Tadpole that is said to sell for $49.95. Maybe with a volume discount and newer low cost Arduino microprocessor, the goal can be reached.
