Frequently asked questions.

What is the Norland Research Calculator robot?

It’s a kit that allow you to use the power of a Texas Instrument Graphing calculator to control two servo motors and read two contact switches. It will allow you to do this with no extra software. Either the built in Basic or Assembly can control it. You simply use the CBL send and get commands.

Why will my robot will not work?

Make sure all the connections are tight and the batteries are fresh. A link cable not plugged in all the way is the most common problem.

Why do I get an error when I run my program?

Make sure you are using the correct commands for your calculator model. The commands are different among the many models. Refer to the manual that came with your calculator or on the Texas Instrument web site such as: http://education.ti.com/us/product/tech/83p/guide/guides.html

How long does it take to assemble the kit??

All that you need to do is install the bumper on the front, mount the wheels, plug in your link cable and install batteries! It's that simple

How long does it take to program the robot??

Two lines of code is all that you need to make the robot move! Of course, you will use several lines of code to solve your robotic needs. Plus, all of the other TI basic commands and display can be used.

Why will my robot will not go straight?

This is because there is no feedback from the wheels. This is an inherit problem with low cost robot kits. You might search the web for how encoders work and plan to use these on a higher end robot project. Meanwhile, just work around it. This is part of trying to make robots work in the real world. Things as simple as carpet grain and wheel size will also give you this problem. You may come closer by adjusting the pulse in the calibrate commands.

Why are my servo motors noisy? Is this normal?

Yes, these are low cost servos. They are chosen to make this an affordable first robot kit. You could replace these with high performance metal gear servos from tower hobbies at:

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p.pgm?Q=1&I=LXH306&P=0

But, the cost for two servos are more than the entire Norland robot kit! You may be able to help the noise by disassembling the servos, clean and re-lubing the gears with white grease. Sometimes a small chip of plastic from the manufacturing process will show up on the gears and cause noise. Also inspect the output shafts for debris.

Why is the PC board attached with plastic rivets?

We felt it would be better for the rivets to break instead of damaging the PC board in case of a hard impact.

Why did the buttons that are hooked to the bumper come off?

That’s fine, they will snap right back on. If they become broken, just contact us for replacement parts or repair.

What are the empty holes on the PC board for?

Testing and future expansion!

This kit has me excited about robots, but I want more?

Visit our links page for other great kits from us and other manufactures! Plus, many do it your self projects.

How do I ask questions about my kit?

Just email us at smallrobot@hotmail.com

Do you take school purchase orders?

Yes, but will need the required information before processing the order. Please contact us for details.

Which charge cards do you accept?

Master card and Visa.

Do you ship COD?

No.

Do I have to buy a complete kit or can I build my own?

Yes, all you need from us is the PC board. The chip is custom made and is not available anywhere else. You will need at least this to allow your calculator to communicate with the link port. The PC board will accept almost any modified servo and you can buy and build most of the other items to build a robot. We will be glad to give you advice.

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