How do I Build a Robot Without a Chip?

Locate a radio-controlled device, such as an old RC car or truck. Any kind of RC device along these lines should do. Pull off the plastic pieces and push them aside so that you reveal the bare wheel base of the device.

Retain several key components. This includes the battery of the RC device, which will either be nickel-cadmium or lead-acid in nature. Also, save the two servos (motors). Finally, the receiver board and controller must also be re-used. The controller allows you to control your robot and will communicate with the receiver.

Begin work with the now completely exposed wheel base of the device. This will be the means of mobility for your robot. Connect two pieces of Velcro to the base, one on the top of the base and one on the bottom. These connections to the base can be made using professional strength glue.

Connect the receiver to the top of the wheel base using the top piece of Velcro. Also, attach the battery to the bottom Velcro piece. Ensure these connections are secure, as you cannot afford to have these pieces coming loose as your robot rumbles along.

Attach each servo near the perimeter of the wheel base, each on opposite sides from one another. Use dual-lock tape or a sturdy adhesive substitute to hold these servos in place.

Insert all the components' wire leads to the receiver. The end of the receiver has channels that accommodate these components. Begin by inserting the two-wire battery lead into the channel listed as "Battery" or "Batt."

Insert each servo into a separate but adjacent channel on the receiver. Insert the wires into the channels in the same manner as you did the battery lead.

Add in stylistic elements to your robot if you desire, or leave it bare-boned. Robot decorations are arbitrary and of your own choice, but use quality bonding materials such as the aforementioned professional strength glue in order to ensure structural integrity.

Flip on the controller and test the movement of your robot, ensuring it operates efficiently. If it does not, check the connections made between the servos and battery and the receiver's channels.