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From: raybutts@netcom.com (Orville R. Butts)
Subject: Low Cost Robot Platform and Computer
Message-ID: <raybuttsD8HsBt.7tL@netcom.com>
Organization: NETCOM On-line Communication Services (408 261-4700 guest)
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 01:04:41 GMT
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Sender: raybutts@netcom16.netcom.com

Low cost robot platform and computer.

I've developed a small low-cost robot platform, and a
computer to go with it, that I hope can make robotics
experimentation more affordable. I'm offering these
platforms and computers to fellow hobbyists like myself,
students and researchers at low cost.

The Platform:
ARBE-ONE was designed as a small (4 1/2 inches square)
mobile platform for almost any type of robot desired. Line
following, wall following, or fully autonomous. It is a
complete mobile base with three wheels and two small high
torque motors providing direct drive to the two front
wheels. (A plastic covering on the motor shafts provide
a smooth positive traction drive for the two soft rubber
drive wheels. Just think, you don't need thirty dollars
worth of servos.) The upper deck provides 16 square inches
of space for electronics and stuff. A screwdriver, pliers,
and a little styrene adhesive is all that is needed for
assembly.

The ARBE-ONE kit is only $29.95 US.
Assembled: $39.95 US.
Please add $4.- US shipping.

The Computers:
TCOMP Model 2.1 is a complete expanded 68HC11E1 processor
with 32K of relocatable ram, Mod switch for PCbug use,
communication header (requires external RS232 communication
chip), headers with port lines and Vdd and ground for ports
A, D, and E, a socketed L293D motor control and four 3 pin
headers for auxiliary hookup. This is NOT a kit. It is a
completely wired ready-to-run computer. All this in a unit
only 2 1/16 inches wide by 2 5/16 inches long.

The TCOMP Model 2.1 complete is $49.50 US.
Please add $4.- US shipping.

The TCOMP Model 3.0 is identical to the Model 2.1 except
it has a MAX233 communication chip instead of the motor
control chip. The size and price are the same.

The TCOMP Models 2.1 and 3.0 can be purchased without the
processor, ram, or motor drive or communication chips if
desired. A cost saving, of course.

The Combination:
ARBE-ONE was designed as a perfect mate for the Model 2.1
and Model 3.0 TCOMP. ARBE-ONE and either TCOMP can be
purchased together for $74.95 US plus $4.- US total
shipping. A saving of nine dollars.

The Future:
Wheel sensors, bumpers, and line following sensors for
the ARBE-ONE platform are in the works and will be
made available soon.

For questions or more information e-mail:
raybutts@netcom.com

Ordering Information:
Please make check or money order out to:
O. Ray Butts, 
50 Kerr Parkway #23, 
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
(503)699-0455 

All items carry a full "Happiness" guarantee of course.


