GettingStarted - Revision history

RobotRobot: Link new pages: Troubleshooting, ESC Firmware, ExpressLRS and EdgeTX Setup, What Your First Robot Costs

2026-10-17T17:05:32Z

Link new pages: Troubleshooting, ESC Firmware, ExpressLRS and EdgeTX Setup, What Your First Robot Costs

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:05, 17 October 2026
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	===Pick a weight class===		===Pick a weight class===
	Once you've been to an event and decided to build a robot, you need to '''[[RobotClasses\|pick a weight class]]''' for your first build. Take into consideration which weight classes are supported in the event(s) you plan to attend, your budget, and your building skills. Most builders start with "insect-weight" bots (the smallest and lightest classes) because they are the cheapest to build and maintain. Generally things get more expensive as they get bigger; the larger the weight class, the more destructive your opponents' bots will be, and the higher the likelihood that your bot will be damaged and require repair. Also, the building / fabrication requirements are very different for a 1-pound robot vs. a 30-pound robot. Start with something that you think you'll be able to complete, and if you have fun then you might go ahead and build a second and third robot.		Once you've been to an event and decided to build a robot, you need to '''[[RobotClasses\|pick a weight class]]''' for your first build. Take into consideration which weight classes are supported in the event(s) you plan to attend, your budget, and your building skills. Most builders start with "insect-weight" bots (the smallest and lightest classes) because they are the cheapest to build and maintain. Generally things get more expensive as they get bigger; the larger the weight class, the more destructive your opponents' bots will be, and the higher the likelihood that your bot will be damaged and require repair. Also, the building / fabrication requirements are very different for a 1-pound robot vs. a 30-pound robot. Start with something that you think you'll be able to complete, and if you have fun then you might go ahead and build a second and third robot. For realistic budgets by class, see '''[[What Your First Robot Costs]]'''.

	===Building from a kit===		===Building from a kit===

RobotRobot: Fix dead links (Oct 2026 link check): replace moved pages, remove discontinued products and closed stores

2026-10-17T14:38:38Z

Fix dead links (Oct 2026 link check): replace moved pages, remove discontinued products and closed stores

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:38, 17 October 2026
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	*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.		*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.
	*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.		*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.
	*'''[https://combatrobotics.co.nz/~~build~~-~~guides/general/~~ New Zealand guide to getting started]''' connects "kiwis" with the local scene.		*'''[https://combatrobotics.co.nz/pages/getting-started New Zealand guide to getting started]''' connects "kiwis" with the local scene.
	*'''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u2wszjPiJOVeC017CCnXBpdU2_T24qVbukyguQFecx4/edit# The Box is Locked]''' helps you prepare for your first competition.		*'''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u2wszjPiJOVeC017CCnXBpdU2_T24qVbukyguQFecx4/edit# The Box is Locked]''' helps you prepare for your first competition.
	*'''[https://www.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/3euojn/what_now_getting_started_in_robot_combat/ Reddit on getting started]''' has more great links.		*'''[https://www.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/3euojn/what_now_getting_started_in_robot_combat/ Reddit on getting started]''' has more great links.
	*'''[https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2763 SparkFun]''' had a rundown article by Cowan with great photos.		*'''[https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2763 SparkFun]''' had a rundown article by Cowan with great photos.
	*The most comprehensive is the '''[~~http~~://~~meggi~~.~~usuarios~~.~~rdc.puc-rio.br~~/~~docs/riobotz_combot_tutorial.pdf~~ RioBots tutorial]''', a full sized book packed with engineering know-how and real life experience. Beginners with small bots don't need to read this to succeed, but at least skim it to learn the basics and gain inspiration.		*The most comprehensive is the '''[https://www.riobotz.com/tutorials RioBots tutorial]''', a full sized book packed with engineering know-how and real life experience. Beginners with small bots don't need to read this to succeed, but at least skim it to learn the basics and gain inspiration.
	*The '''[https://www.~~teamwitchdoctor~~.com/~~build-a-robot~~ Witch Doctor Junior Video Series]''' is an easy to understand resource for new builders.		*The '''[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL81yBUG7TPX3rRRStHBGLX0Rr2aaBqfFO Witch Doctor Junior Video Series]''' is an easy to understand resource for new builders.
	*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.		*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.
	*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.		*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.

RobotRobot: Link new pages on components, CAD, driving practice and event preparation

2026-10-17T06:35:41Z

Link new pages on components, CAD, driving practice and event preparation

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:35, 17 October 2026
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	===Picking components===		===Picking components===
	Some people spend a ton of time picking motors and batteries and all the things that go into your first robot. It pays to take some time and make informed choices, but even advanced builders iterate and discover new components to improve their bots. Don't let 'perfect be the enemy of good'. Pick things that work, then iterate and make improvements over time as you go. If you are new to fabricating things take a look at the '''[[NameThatPart]]''' page to learn about different materials and some of the basic things you'll need to create your robot.		Some people spend a ton of time picking motors and batteries and all the things that go into your first robot. It pays to take some time and make informed choices, but even advanced builders iterate and discover new components to improve their bots. Don't let 'perfect be the enemy of good'. Pick things that work, then iterate and make improvements over time as you go. If you are new to fabricating things take a look at the '''[[NameThatPart]]''' page to learn about different materials and some of the basic things you'll need to create your robot. For help choosing, see '''[[Drive Systems]]''', '''[[Wheels]]''', '''[[Armor and Materials]]''', '''[[Fasteners and Hardware]]''' and '''[[Wiring and Soldering]]'''. Designing in '''[[CAD for Combat Robots\|CAD]]''' first helps you check fit and weight.

	===Build and test your robot===		===Build and test your robot===
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	===Master driving skills===		===Master driving skills===
	First, you must become a master of your own bot. Find or make a safe place to test your bot without chance of injury to yourself, family, pets, and others, and get plenty of practice driving it as often as possible. Learn how long the battery will hold out before it must be charged. If possible, adjust your controls so that the bot moves and performs as your hands expect it to; for example, adjust the bot or the radio so that when the stick is pushed straight forward, the bot will go straight ahead, and not veer to one side. All of the bot's motions should be predictable and reliable. Then you can practice your moves, just as with any sport, even if all you have is a wood-block dummy to push around.		First, you must become a master of your own bot. Find or make a safe place to test your bot without chance of injury to yourself, family, pets, and others, and get plenty of practice driving it as often as possible. Learn how long the battery will hold out before it must be charged. If possible, adjust your controls so that the bot moves and performs as your hands expect it to; for example, adjust the bot or the radio so that when the stick is pushed straight forward, the bot will go straight ahead, and not veer to one side. All of the bot's motions should be predictable and reliable. Then you can practice your moves, just as with any sport, even if all you have is a wood-block dummy to push around. See '''[[Driving Practice]]''' for drills and radio settings.

	===Study and engage===		===Study and engage===
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	===Pit strategy===		===Pit strategy===
	While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables as possible during the competition, and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for your opponent's bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats.		While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables as possible during the competition, and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for your opponent's bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats. For what to bring and how event day works, see '''[[Pit Kit and Event Checklist]]'''.
	Imagine the advantage in knowing your next competitor has a stronger weapon than before, or that they have replaced their armor with fresh plates angled to deflect your bot... or maybe they have taken too much damage, and had to switch to their old, slightly cracked bot frame in order to remain in competition. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.		Imagine the advantage in knowing your next competitor has a stronger weapon than before, or that they have replaced their armor with fresh plates angled to deflect your bot... or maybe they have taken too much damage, and had to switch to their old, slightly cracked bot frame in order to remain in competition. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.

	===Strong spirit===		===Strong spirit===
	Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run low, circuits overheat, gears jam, belts fall off, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.		Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run low, circuits overheat, gears jam, belts fall off, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.

RobotRobot: Link SPARC page

2026-10-17T05:31:11Z

Link SPARC page

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:31, 17 October 2026
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	Each robot combat event is governed by '''[[Rules\|rules]]''' that specify such things as bot size and weight, allowable weapons, and safe behavior for both you and your bot. Learn what you are allowed to bring, how the event is scored, and how matches are structured. Listen in during the Driver's Meeting before the first match for a summary of requirements for participants.		Each robot combat event is governed by '''[[Rules\|rules]]''' that specify such things as bot size and weight, allowable weapons, and safe behavior for both you and your bot. Learn what you are allowed to bring, how the event is scored, and how matches are structured. Listen in during the Driver's Meeting before the first match for a summary of requirements for participants.

	Before you compete, read the event rules carefully; even if an event adopts SPARC rules or another standard, local changes are not uncommon. Check with the event organizers if you have any doubts about whether your bot will be accepted.		Before you compete, read the event rules carefully; even if an event adopts '''[[SPARC]]''' rules or another standard, local changes are not uncommon. Check with the event organizers if you have any doubts about whether your bot will be accepted.

	===Borrow a robot===		===Borrow a robot===

Chklnk: /* Getting Started Guides */ New description for MM tutorial and move toward front

2025-10-25T07:15:01Z

Getting Started Guides: New description for MM tutorial and move toward front

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:15, 25 October 2025
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	=Getting Started Guides=		=Getting Started Guides=
	*Robert Cowan's '''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tXSzwzEM2jNGjZ2KYn00ldeHvEru0y3_zlNkVw-F9iI/edit?usp=sharing Combat Robot Resource Guide]''' is packed with useful links and tips.		*Robert Cowan's '''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tXSzwzEM2jNGjZ2KYn00ldeHvEru0y3_zlNkVw-F9iI/edit?usp=sharing Combat Robot Resource Guide]''' is packed with useful links and tips.
			*Maker's Muse '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw introductory tutorial]''' does a great job covering the basics, and even shows some things beginners get wrong.
	*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.		*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.
	*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.		*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.
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	*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.		*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.
	*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.		*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.
	*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw Great YouTube Tutorial]'''. There is a lot of incomplete or inaccurate material on YouTube but this video does a great job covering the basics.
	*'''[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win]''' is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.		*'''[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win]''' is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.

Chklnk: /* Preparing yourself */ Rewording pit strategy a bit

2024-01-06T07:18:07Z

Preparing yourself: Rewording pit strategy a bit

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:18, 6 January 2024
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	===Study and engage===		===Study and engage===
	You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching ~~the~~ videos, but by going to events and fighting.		You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching videos, but by going to events and fighting.

	===Pit strategy===		===Pit strategy===
	While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables during the competition and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats. ~~You may find~~ your next competitor has a stronger weapon~~; better~~ armor; or maybe they have had to switch to their old, slightly cracked frame. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.		While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables as possible during the competition, and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for your opponent's bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats.
			Imagine the advantage in knowing your next competitor has a stronger weapon than before, or that they have replaced their armor with fresh plates angled to deflect your bot... or maybe they have taken too much damage, and had to switch to their old, slightly cracked bot frame in order to remain in competition. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.

	===Strong spirit===		===Strong spirit===
	Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run ~~out~~, circuits overheat, gears jam, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.		Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run low, circuits overheat, gears jam, belts fall off, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.

Chklnk: Added headers to preparation section

2023-11-06T06:15:18Z

Added headers to preparation section

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:15, 6 November 2023
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	=Preparing yourself=		=Preparing yourself=
	After the bot is built, it must be operated. Combat robots need drivers to succeed.		After the bot is built, it must be operated. Combat robots need drivers to succeed. Two keys to success in the bot arena are '''driving skills''' and '''strategy'''.

	~~Two keys to success in the bot arena are '''~~driving skills~~''' and '''strategy'''.~~ First, you must become a master of your own bot. Find or make a safe place to test your bot without chance of injury to yourself, family, pets, and others, and get plenty of practice driving it as often as possible. Learn how long the battery will hold out before it must be charged. If possible, adjust your controls so that the bot moves and performs as your hands expect it to; for example, adjust the bot or the radio so that when the stick is pushed straight forward, the bot will go straight ahead, and not veer to one side. All of the bot's motions should be predictable and reliable. Then you can practice your moves, just as with any sport, even if all you have is a wood-block dummy to push around.		===Master driving skills===
			First, you must become a master of your own bot. Find or make a safe place to test your bot without chance of injury to yourself, family, pets, and others, and get plenty of practice driving it as often as possible. Learn how long the battery will hold out before it must be charged. If possible, adjust your controls so that the bot moves and performs as your hands expect it to; for example, adjust the bot or the radio so that when the stick is pushed straight forward, the bot will go straight ahead, and not veer to one side. All of the bot's motions should be predictable and reliable. Then you can practice your moves, just as with any sport, even if all you have is a wood-block dummy to push around.

			===Study and engage===
	You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching the videos, but by going to events and fighting.		You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching the videos, but by going to events and fighting.

			===Pit strategy===
	While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables during the competition and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats. You may find your next competitor has a stronger weapon; better armor; or maybe they have had to switch to their old, slightly cracked frame. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.		While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables during the competition and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats. You may find your next competitor has a stronger weapon; better armor; or maybe they have had to switch to their old, slightly cracked frame. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.

			===Strong spirit===
	Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run out, circuits overheat, gears jam, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.		Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run out, circuits overheat, gears jam, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.

Chklnk: /* Preparing yourself */ Pit tactics

2023-11-06T06:12:04Z

Preparing yourself: Pit tactics

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:12, 6 November 2023
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	You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching the videos, but by going to events and fighting.		You will need to effectively engage your rivals in the battle arena, identifying their strengths and seeking out and exploiting weaknesses in their bot designs and in their own driving. You might be able to watch videos of your opponent bots in prior matches to learn about their behavior. However, only in real combat will you learn all the instincts needed to adapt to ever-changing situations. Robot combat is a true sport, and its techniques can be learned and studied not only by watching the videos, but by going to events and fighting.

			While at each event, you will have your own spot in the "pits" for repairs and adjustments. Take the time to visit as many competitor's pit tables during the competition and see what they're up to. It's not uncommon for bots to be refitted from one competition to the next, or even modified for individual matches, and you should be prepared with new tactics against potential new threats. You may find your next competitor has a stronger weapon; better armor; or maybe they have had to switch to their old, slightly cracked frame. There is no formal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homologation_(motorsport) homologation] in combat robotics; anything that meets the weight limit and the rules is fair game, and it's best not to be surprised just at the moment your match starts.

	Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run out, circuits overheat, gears jam, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.		Finally, steel yourself for failure. Parts will fail, things will break, batteries run out, circuits overheat, gears jam, connectors come unplugged, and mighty opponents may cut your bot to ribbons. "The general rule of thumb in any robot competition regardless of weight class is not to put a bot in the arena you aren't comfortable having destroyed."[https://old.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/8ogjpe/choosing_a_controller_rather_costprohibitive/e046ct1/] If defeat comes, congratulate your opponent, return to the pits, rebuild, and return to the arena and triumph.

Chklnk: Removed duplicate guidebook and emboldened links in Guides section

2023-03-19T22:36:16Z

Removed duplicate guidebook and emboldened links in Guides section

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:36, 19 March 2023
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	=Getting Started Guides=		=Getting Started Guides=
	*Robert Cowan's [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tXSzwzEM2jNGjZ2KYn00ldeHvEru0y3_zlNkVw-F9iI/edit?usp=sharing Combat Robot Resource Guide] is packed with useful links and tips.		*Robert Cowan's '''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tXSzwzEM2jNGjZ2KYn00ldeHvEru0y3_zlNkVw-F9iI/edit?usp=sharing Combat Robot Resource Guide]''' is packed with useful links and tips.
	*Peter Garnache's [https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Combat ~~Robotics~~ Design Handbook] is a great resource for ~~bot builders looking to learn more about bot~~ design, manufacturing techniques, ~~or even just~~ the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.		*Peter Garnache's '''[https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gA-8xjnxF9-k8PxmurhnEiuI-fv-Lz7/view Beetleweight Combat Robot Design Handbook]''' is aimed at builders of smaller bots and is a great resource for design tips, manufacturing techniques, and avoiding damage that is common in robot combat. Don't miss the classifications and naming conventions used in combat robotics.
	*[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight] is a great visual guide to the process.		*'''[https://www.wikihow.com/Build-an-Antweight-Combat-Robot Build an Antweight]''' is a great visual guide to the process.
	*[https://combatrobotics.co.nz/build-guides/general/ New Zealand guide to getting started] connects "kiwis" with the local scene.		*'''[https://combatrobotics.co.nz/build-guides/general/ New Zealand guide to getting started]''' connects "kiwis" with the local scene.
	*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u2wszjPiJOVeC017CCnXBpdU2_T24qVbukyguQFecx4/edit# The Box is Locked] helps you prepare for your first competition.		*'''[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1u2wszjPiJOVeC017CCnXBpdU2_T24qVbukyguQFecx4/edit# The Box is Locked]''' helps you prepare for your first competition.
	*[https://www.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/3euojn/what_now_getting_started_in_robot_combat/ Reddit on getting started] has more great links.		*'''[https://www.reddit.com/r/battlebots/comments/3euojn/what_now_getting_started_in_robot_combat/ Reddit on getting started]''' has more great links.
	*[https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2763 SparkFun] had a rundown article by Cowan with great photos.		*'''[https://www.sparkfun.com/news/2763 SparkFun]''' had a rundown article by Cowan with great photos.
	*The most comprehensive is the [http://meggi.usuarios.rdc.puc-rio.br/docs/riobotz_combot_tutorial.pdf RioBots] ~~tutorial~~, a full sized book packed with engineering know-how and real life experience. Beginners with small bots don't need to read this to succeed, but at least skim it to learn the basics and gain inspiration.		*The most comprehensive is the '''[http://meggi.usuarios.rdc.puc-rio.br/docs/riobotz_combot_tutorial.pdf RioBots tutorial]''', a full sized book packed with engineering know-how and real life experience. Beginners with small bots don't need to read this to succeed, but at least skim it to learn the basics and gain inspiration.
	*~~[http://repeat-robotics.com/handbook/ Repeat Robotics Beetle Guide] has a more focus approach to the popular Beetle weight class.~~		*The '''[https://www.teamwitchdoctor.com/build-a-robot Witch Doctor Junior Video Series]''' is an easy to understand resource for new builders.
	*[https://www.teamwitchdoctor.com/build-a-robot ~~The~~ Witch Doctor Junior Video Series] is an easy to understand resource for new builders.		*'''[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics]''' provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.
	*[https://youtu.be/-fyxuHzDUaY Just 'Cuz Robotics] provides a guide on what to expect at your first event.		*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box]''' will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.
	*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box] will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.		*'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw Great YouTube Tutorial]'''. There is a lot of incomplete or inaccurate material on YouTube but this video does a great job covering the basics.
	*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw Great YouTube Tutorial.] There is a lot of incomplete or inaccurate material on YouTube but this video does a great job covering the basics.		*'''[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win]''' is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.
	*[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win] is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.

	=Preparing yourself=		=Preparing yourself=

JungleDave: added build4thewin to resouces

2023-03-04T23:02:19Z

added build4thewin to resouces

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:02, 4 March 2023
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	*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box] will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.		*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lw5YuJKg8vA How to build a test box] will keep you safe! A guide from team Scorpios.
	*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw Great YouTube Tutorial.] There is a lot of incomplete or inaccurate material on YouTube but this video does a great job covering the basics.		*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvNRtRuOALw Great YouTube Tutorial.] There is a lot of incomplete or inaccurate material on YouTube but this video does a great job covering the basics.
			*[https://build4the.win/ Build 4 The Win] is a free site to help you organize the parts list for a bot, including looking at other bot designs and a searchable parts database.

	=Preparing yourself=		=Preparing yourself=