DonFL (7/18/2009)
I'm at the point of tackling a new robot project (aka "too much work, not enough time for play and have to do something about it..") and came across the Stinger and Serializer while at the Trossen website.
>>The Stinger is an excellent choice if you have low pile carpet or hard floors.
>>It has a low ground clearance best used on hard surfaces.
After reading more the last couple hours, I'm a bit nervous as to whether I might be in a bit over my head if I go with the Stinger/Serializer combo.
>> Over your head, No, you'll be surprised after a minor learning curve.
I've got solid experience on the build side..that doesn't frighten me, it's the part I love best. Typically, most robots I build lean on canned software to some level, and my fun is getting it built and working, and maybe some minor mods to the code.
>> You will find the visual studio express code easy to adapt to. I don't
>> recommend the MSDN Robotics Studio right off as it is much tougher.
That's what concerns me about going with the Serializer. I have what I would describe as beginner, or maybe a step above beginner experience with several languages: C, C++, C#, java, various flavors of basic. I would say looking thru the Library Install guide, and the MSDN help docs, I find myself thinking "this isn't all 100% clear". Said another way, I'm not sure I would know where to start, even using the canned code, to assemble a robotic beast that would implement multiple types of sensors and simple decision making.
>> the free samples software is a great starting place for controlling the
>> Serializer with Stinger or Traxster. Easy to make cahnges to as you
>> will find after a short period of study.
As I look at the docs, it suggests to me I need to have a solid, meaning, intermediate or better, familiarity with C# to really make the Stinger dance and sing. I can't honestly say I am at that point. The last thing I want is a platform that was fun to build, but is way beyond my ability to create the type of robot I want (still deciding on details there..) due to programming. That said, I'd love to tackle something where coming out the other side, I have a better understanding from a robotics programming and control standpoint.
>> starting with the available code on this site you may find the Stinger
>> already has some dancing lessons
You want different sensors, if you
>> stay within the supported sensors, all available at RoboticsConnection
>> you wont have any trouble, simple as changing some variables in the code.
>> Other sensors can be used with the Serializer WL but save them for later
>> after you have a good understanding of its capabilities.
Am I being too concerned about the level of expertise I need from a coding standpoint?
>> DOH! slap forehead, YES! It will grow with you as you try things out.
Any and all guidance and opinion (and, even better, personal experience..) is appreciated!