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What can the ER1 Personal Robot System do?
The ER1 is a robotics software platform, plus all the necessary hardware,
designed to be the best starting point for any project imaginable by the robot
hobbyist. Quite simply, ER1 inventors have access to a real autonomous robot --
not just a toy! With the ER1's differentiating features (advanced vision
software, Robot Control Center GUI, socket API, and re-
configurable industrial strength XBeams), you can do an infinite number of
experiments. Get started with 20 Real Things You Can Do With The ER1.
We guarantee (30 Days Or Your Money Back) that you
will love working with your ER1. It will not only upgrade your next project but
it will change how you think about robotics.
I'm a poor computer science student who is in love with the ER1. Can I purchase the ER1 on a payment plan?
Sorry. We don't provide a payment plan service, but rumor has it that credit card companies are more than happy to spread out payments to poor college students.
It would be nice to have access to the community forums, to learn more about the product.
The ER1 Forums are open to the public. No purchase or sign-in is required. Come on in and browse...
Are products from Evolution Robotics available to the international community?
Yes, we are shipping to 29 countries, including the EU, Canada and Japan. See full list of countries.
Looking for child abuse proof unit. I don't want my child to tell me in the future: "Hey Dad, the wheel came off while carrying my backpack!" and so on.
Good rule of thumb: If you wouldn't leave your laptop alone with your kid, don't leave the ER1 alone either. The ER1 is for ages 14 and up. It's quite sturdy, and we can offer you suggestions on ways to reinforce the construction.
I don't want to buy an extra laptop.
Yes, we know it is asking a lot. To those of you have bit the bullet and are helping us push the development envelope, we're grateful. For those of you who don't want to use your laptop, check out our Mini Book PC Project for building a replacement. The cost is about $600. Stay tuned for
more developments.
Got a version for Mac OS users?
Sorry, nothing is currently planned for Mac users.
Have you considered using smaller computing platforms such as the Palm or other handheld computers?
We will move toward smaller and different computing devices in the future based on customer demand.
How much will I lose on performance with only 128MB RAM?
As with any computer application, the more system resources that are available, the better the application will perform.
Can it be used for hands free operation of the laptop (web browsing, etc.)?
If you have a wireless network (which we recommend) you can run the ER1 from your desktop.
Does the laptop draw power from robot?
No.
Does the ER1 have a robotic arm?
While not a full motion arm, the ER1 Gripper is a useful accessory for grabbing and carrying objects.
Could it be ...bigger? ...taller? ... have two (or three) arms?
All of the above. The ER1 is completely expandable and re-configurable. Imagination is all that's required.
Can I scale the ER1 up to the size of an ATV and traverse a small stand of trees carrying an antenna?
Wow. Take pictures. We're dying to see what you come up with.
How does the ER1 perform obstacle avoidance and collision detection?
This functionality works with a secondary camera, which the robot dedicates to
the task of sensing obstacles. You can use the ER1's camera (included with
purchase) or add an extra camera, which will enable you to perform multiple
actions simultaneously. Obstacle avoidance also works with the addition of the
IR Sensor Pack, which your ER1 can use to intelligently navigate around a
space with "object presence" detection that tells it when an object is near.
How can I add a second camera without buying an expansion pack?
There are many ways to add the second camera without buying the expansion pack, such as using Velcro strips or angle brackets.
How long does the battery last in the ER1?
Assuming a level floor, the ER1 will last about 2.5 hours before needing a recharge.
How much torque do the motors have? I want to attach a wagon for payload.
The motors have about 100oz/in of torque. The ER1 can carry about 15-20 lbs. before becoming unusable.
Can I add servomotors, or change the wheels?
Our hardware and software does not support the use of servomotors.
What can the digital and analog ports on the RCM be used for?
The Digital and Analog I/O ports can be used to add your own types of sensors and hardware such as infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, etc...
Can the robot go to a docking station?
This is on our "to do" list, but we suspect some ER1 inventor will build a docking station first. The gauntlet has been thrown!
Will an API be available for the ER1 software?
Yes, the ER1 comes with a socket API, or command line interface, so the user can control the ER1 directly.
Is the ER1's API open source?
No.
I'm waiting for any of the bugs in the systems (if any) to be worked out.
Bugs are constantly being worked out. See what's new in ER1 Software: Release Notes.
Is the software available alone yet?
We are considering making the ER1 software available bundled with just the Robot Control Module. Think this is a good idea? Email customerservice@evolution.com.
Will software updates and upgrades cost money?
At this time, all software updates are free to registered ER1 owners in the ER1 Community.
What is the warranty on the product?
Your kit and its component parts are warranted to be free from defects for a period of 1 year from date of delivery to you.
Where do I get it serviced?
Contact Evolution Robotics Customer service at customerservice@evolution.com or call 866-ROBO4ME, M-F, 9:00am to 5:00pm Pacific Time.
Where can I buy the ER1?
Go to Buy The ER1 to place your order now, or Find A Store and see the ER1 in person.
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