DFRobotShop Rover V2 - Arduino Compatible Tracked Robot (Basic Kit)

The instructions were not clear. The video was basically a slideshow, showing how the parts look like once it was assembled but they did not show the actual procedure of putting the parts together. Also, even though other customers and the website said that Arduino was an easy start into robotics, the Arduino website says that it is an Integrated Development Environment, which when I searched that up on Google, it says that computer programmers use it for software development, not some toy a little kid can play with. If want to buy this kit, remember to learn programming language and buy the Bluetooth accessories first, so that you can control it wirelessly and not waste a lot of time. Otherwise, you will be stuck playing with it at your computer desk, because it requires the USB cable to be commanded.

I ordered this kit as an introduction to robotics with my 8-year old son. The kit is complex enough that it should challenge us for many years - but was simple enough that he could meaningfully participate in building it and get a sense of accomplishment as it drove under his "command". We purchased the kit with the Bluetooth module - which proved to be very important for providing my son with a good sense of have a "robot" to control. The software is simple to use, and the instructions (with the video) are adequately clear for a complete first timer such as myself. A separate document more clearly showing the installation of the Bluetooth would have been helpful - but not necessary. When we had some troubles (with the tooth module) the thorough forums helped us track the issue and Robot Shop responded quickly and accurately to our issue. I would strongly recommend this for anyone technically inclined looking for a simple introduction to robotics.

I like this product because it is based on arduino and can do lot of things with it and also it is a inexpensive robo.

Hi! I just assembled and tested this robot and it's a good robot kit for people thinking on some robotics with sensors, flexible enough and with Arduino support. The kit is very comprehensive to mount, with good instructions thanks to a video in Youtube from Robotshop. It is also simple yet powerful enough to expand it with sensors and other actuators thanks to the integrated Arduino board it has. The DC motors are simple but effective with the gears and the whole structure is light but robust. It brings also several simple programs so you can start using it after mounting it, and later develop your own robot and have even mor fun! I posted a full review also here, and probably more later after I add more stuff to it ;-) http://letsmakerobots.com/node/47761

I had the basic unit running in a couple of hours. After installing the Arduino SDK on Windows, I was pleased to fine that the SDK was quite easy to use, and you can test your Sketch program using the built in serial terminal. I had a bit of trouble with the bluetooth driver on windows, but the problem was resolved by restarting windows. I acquired a Moto Razr on ebay, and downloaded the Arduino BT Joystick app, it connected immediately. A few lines of "sketch" code and I was driving the Rover all over the house. My Rover is actually going to be the base of a plastic penguin that will be appearing in the local Community Theatre.performance of "The Man Who Came to Dinner". The complete package of Arduino, and Rover, and Android plus Bluetooth. looks like a winner. it will be easy to use and reliable enough for the stage crew to run. At under $200 for all parts including the Android based cellphone, it was quite reasonable. I haven't done any embedded computer programming since the early 80's. I'm pleasantly surprised at how quickly the entire project came together. I had expected to spend weeks on it, but it only took a few evenings. I found only three glitches in the docs; 1-- be sure to reboot Windows after installing the bluetooth driver; 2-- The Bluetooth PIN is 1234; and 3. You must remove the bluetooth module to upload your Sketch program.