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How to Set Robonova to Ground Zero

Robonova is a true humanoid robot with servo-driven arms, legs and a body that comes in a kit form. While a toy, Robonova is also a sophisticated machine, capable of a wide range of actions that are highly programmable. Each joint in the body is actuated by a servo connected to a programmable control unit within the device. When the unit is first assembled, some of the servos may be sightly off center. A zero setting is then required to align the servos to the proper positions. This is accomplished through the roboBASIC computer application that interfaces with Robonova for programming.

Things You'll Need

Robonova
Serial interface cable
Personal computer with roboBASIC application installed

Instructions

- 1
  Stand the Robonova up on its feet on a flat and stable surface.
- 2
  Connect the serial interface cable included with the unit from the socket in the top back of the Robonova to the serial port on the computer with the roboBASIC application installed.
- 3
  Select Compile, then Zero Point from the main menu. A window with a picture of Robonova will display. Beside each servo in the robot is a box that displays the default neutral position of each servo unit in the robot.
- 4
  Click the "READ" button on the screen to have the Robonova servos move to the these positions.
- 5
  Compare the settings on the display to the actual position of the Robonova's servos. If any of the the Robonova's servos are improperly aligned, click on the up or down arrows associated with that servo on the display to adjust the zero point of each servo.
- 6
  Adjust the foot servos so that the feet are flat on the surface. Adjust the ankle and hip servos so they are aligned vertically. Adjust the arm servos so that they extend straight out horizontally from the body of the Robonova.
- 7
  Click on the "Write" button on the display to store these settings in the program for the robot.
- 8
  Click on the "Insert" button on the display to upload the new settings to the Robonova. This stores the new settings in the controller unit within the robot.
- 9
  Test the new settings by cycling the power on the robot. When the Robonova is powered up again, click on the "READ" button again. The Robonova will respond, aligning the servos to the new settings.

Educational Toys