Use of Parts from the Robotics Lab:

• Access to machines will be given after attending the EDS Machine Shop session and/or by stopping by during TA office hours.
• All parts and materials taken from the lab must first be approved .
• ED2 projects must be fully approved before parts can be obtained.
• Bring justification if you would like to borrow parts (drawings, schematics, specs., etc...).
• Check out only what you need and return anything that will not be used ASAP so that other groups may use the resources.
• Parts and materials should be returned ASAP (Either upon project demonstration, or when a material is no longer desired).
• When possible, return all documentation and accessories.

College of Engineering Information Technology Grants Program
Information and directions for purchasing items for approved projects.
NOTE: The Voucher for Expenses Other Than Travel is included in this link with instructions on it's use.

Inventory of Parts available in the Robotics Lab (Excel file)
NOTE: The list is not always complete and accurate, but can be used as a general guideline. Also note: "[ ]" means that the part is in the Robotics Lab, but is not yet removed from a previous project.

IT Parts Return Contact:

• Hank VanSant, (561) 297-3416, vansant@fau.edu

Pinouts for LCDs in Sr. Project Lab (pdf)

An Inexpensive Micrcontroller (PICAXE):

• The smallest of these costs about $2. They are programmed with BASIC or a flow-chart. The programming software is free!
• Information about PICAXE
• Where to buy PICAXE in the US (Click on "Parts on Hand")
• You can also try to buy PICAXE from the above vendor on e-Bay. He has both chips and development kits (though you can build your own boards very easily!).
• You can order from the UK, but shipping is about $20. However, there is a greater selection. If you do this try to pool orders with others in the class if you do this to divide shipping costs. These may be bought from www.tech-supplies.co.uk.
• The 08M and 18X is recommended for most projects - but check features and specs for your needs. It's also a good idea to order more than one to cover "learning accidents".
• As a good power source for these chips, you can use an enclosed 4 AA battery holder (#270-409 at Radio Shack) with RECHARGABLE batteries. Rechargables are only 1.2V each, so in this holder, you get an appropriate voltage AND are a bit nicer on the environment. A regulator is always an option, as well.

Other Microcontrollers:

• The PICAXE manual (pdf) is a good reference on the basics of any microcontroller.
• If you would like to purchase a Basic Stamp Board of Education (which is another popular, easy-to-use microcontroller), it can be purchased locally. Check Omnitron Electronics in Deerfield Beach. They had a Board of Education kit for around $90. Call them and let them know that you will pick it up, rather than have it shipped.

Other Helpful Links:

• FAU Robotics Club Email - faurobotics@gmail.com
• Power Electronic Design Resources