Newbie to robots

[chris...]

Hi

I have a few questions about robots. Although I completed my diploma in electronics about 15years ago, I have no interest in doing my own electronic hardware. I'd rather just buy modules, plug them together and program, knowing that...
Of all the robots, is the bioloid the most versatile?
Are there any other robot kits that use dynamixels?
Is there other actuators that run on a serial bus and provide feedback like the dynamixel?
Does enough hardware exist where I can communicate with this serial bus using an linux-based embedded pc e.g. gumstix?

[ksamay]

Of all the robots, is the bioloid the most versatile?

I think its a personal choice ,but according to me. Yes, it is one of the most versatile kits out there.

Also once you have mastered the kit , it is very easy to move up to the even stronger and bigger robotis ( maker of the bioloid kit ) motors like Rx-28,Rx-64 and Ex-106.They use the same control protocol and very similar to the AX12 used in the bioloid kit.

So its an ideal choice if u have dreams of moving up and making your own humanoid .

Are there any other robot kits that use dynamixels?

There are a few more kits like the cycloid ( using the Dx117, but might be phased out
http://www.tribotix.com/Products/Robotis/Humanoids/CycloidIII_info1.htm and there another high high end Robot bear Hykim by tribotix http://www.tribotix.com/Products/Tribotix/Robots/Hykim_info1.htm but cost nearly USD 15,000.

I personally recommend you start with the bioloid kit and then build your owm robot using other DX,RX and Ex series dynamixels.

I was personally inspired by Bullit (rob) & Hiveminds (chris) 's humanoids oro & zog at robogames. (google for them or checkout their youtube videos ( Farrell Robotics ) ). very inspiring! and you would also see the potential of the dynamixel motors. atleast thats how i started making my humanoid .

Is there other actuators that run on a serial bus and provide feedback like the dynamixel?

Although other people would add to this , the ones i know of are:

1. RoboBuilder http://robosavvy.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=159&Itemid=128
2. Vstone ( i don't think these are available outside Japan)
3. I think open servo also support I2C.

Does enough hardware exist where I can communicate with this serial bus using an linux-based embedded pc e.g. gumstix?

Definately yes !

you can actually easily covert any USB or Serial bus to this bus. i.e you can use any computing hardware to control the motors. ( as long as you can fix it on the robot )

there is this new daughter board for the gumstix that limor is building http://robosavvy.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2921.

Then Bullit has also done some amazing work with the gumstix ( see the same topic )

and you have come to the right forum ! people here are very helpful and explain things properely to new bies like us!

[chris...]

thanx for the info
you pretty much answered everything i was after
......
acquire robot i must