Getting Started with Robotics Programming (For Beginners)

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Getting started in robotics is a little daunting, especially if you have no idea where to begin. The first thing that you should be aware of is that robotics requires quite a few different skills and competencies, with mathematics and science being at the fore front.

Yes there are many different applications out there that can help you to understand the science and mathematics that is required to get into robotics, but it is not easy.

Having said that, we thought that we would show you what it takes to get started with robotics and focus on the programming aspects of this interesting field of science. 

Table of Contents

Let’s Get Started with Robotics and Programming

If you want to learn how to build and code your own robots, then you can get started with free online resources today. There are many lessons that will get you started with languages like Python, C++ and even C. Sometimes you might feel the need to use a Raspberry Pi or Arduino.

Arduino is especially fun to get started with as it is quite easy to learn the syntax and programming tools that you need to get basic functions working quickly. The Arduino Programming Language is a set of programming features that scaffolds around a C++ implementation, allowing users to create completed programs called Sketches.

Although this may not be a real programming language in the strictest sense, it is a worthy learning tool for anyone that wants to get started with robotics and programming.

Advanced Robotics and Programming

If you are still grappling with programming fundamentals then it is a good idea to get stuck into some bootcamps that will teach you the essential programming concepts like Object Orientation, Data Structures, Algorithms and Computer Science. These classes can be taken online and are usually free.

These classes are designed to give you a broad understanding of what is involved in programming, including how computer programs are put together. Once you have gained a basic knowledge of programming, you can then look into learning a new language like C++ or Python.

You will also need electronics and electrical knowledge to help you understand the strains forces that are exerted on electrical components such as motors and servos. You will need to know how batteries work, and concepts like amp draw and voltage drops.

Why Is Programming Important?

If you are dealing with robots then you need to understand mathematical spacial concepts as well as robotic kinematics. Robot kinematics uses geometry and mathematics to give your creations full movement on all axis. If you already have a good grasp of mathematics then this will make your learning journey all the better.

What Age Is Best to Start Programming?

The best age to start programming is right now, regardless of how old you are. It is usually better to start learning complex skills earlier on in life, as when we are younger we generally have more time to commit to our passions and hobbies.

So if you have enought time to dedicate to learning these fascinating concepts then there is no barrier other than time and effort. 

If you are a parent that is wondering how to get your children involved then you can find various online resources that can help point you in the right direction. 

Does Robotics Need Programming Knowledge?

Yes, robotics needs a lot of programming knowledge if you are developing the entire unit yourself. In most robotic teams there are specialists that have thier own sets of competencies and skills that they apply to each new project. If you are looking to tinker and create something on your own then you will need an aptitude for coding, programming, mechanical engineering, electronic engineering and physics.

What Programming Language Is Used for Robotics?

There are many different robotic programming languages out there, but there are 2 main typesthat you should be aware of. The first is for commercially available robots have a ‘programming language’ that allows human operators to program the actions of automated robots.

We see this in manufacturing and factory settings. These languages are proprietary to the owners of the robotic equipment, and are not necessarily computer programming languages like the ones that we have been discussing.

The second one, which we have been discussing, relies more on computer programming in the ‘traditional’ sense, where code is written into a compiler or interpreter, and then run from there. The robot will then receive these commands either directly or through an API, and they will then move and work as intended. (Hopefully)

Conclusion: Beginner Programming of Robots

if you want to start programming robots, it is best to start with a a specialized language like ROBOTC. If you are more interested in building something from scratch, then you can look at things like Arduino.

Robots are often viewed as futuristic. While that may be true, there are already companies out there that are using robotics to make our lives easier, like Amazon.com’s Amazon Robotics division.

As more companies begin to use robotics, it will likely lead to advancements in areas like medicine, transportation, and construction. 

Its a good idea to learn about how to get involved in this exciting field if that is something that you want to persue.

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