Where to Get Started
New to mechanical or electronics construction? Is Arduino an alien concept to you?
Robotics covers many disciplines, and not everyone is familiar with all aspects of building and programming a robot. Here are some resources to help you learn more about the main aspects of robot building.
Arduino
Start Here - The main Arduino Web site is your home base for learning about the Arduino. Visiting this site is NOT optional if you're just starting out with the Arduino.
Then Go Here - Extended reference on setting up the Arduino, programming it for the first time, and more.
Don't Forget Here - All the basic information you need on using the Arduino for the first time. Separate sections if you are using Windows, Macintosh, or Linux. See also the Troubleshooting section on this page if you're having problems.
And Finally Visit Here - Join the official Arduino forum to ask questions about the Arduino, chat with others, and learn.
Mechanical Construction
Wordsmith Tips - Tips and techniques for working in the shop; how to drill and cut wood (most tips apply to expanded PVC); important safety advice. From the editors of Woodsmith and ShopNotes magazines.
eHow: Using a Power Drill - Basic instructions on using a power drill.
Choosing and Using a Circular Saw - Reprint from This Old House magazine on using a circular power saw. And check out this one on Using a Handsaw.
Electronics Construction
How to Solder - Illustrated guide on soldering, from setting up to clean up. And more Soldering Basics from the owner of SparkFun.
SparkFun's Beginning Embedded tutorials - Variety of extended how-tos. Though labeled for the beginner, most are more suitable for the intermediate learner. Bookmark this page to keep it handy.
Learn by Doing: Instructables simple electronic projects - Learning wiring, soldering, and other electronics skills by making such things as a ChapStick LED flashlight.
For More Info...
... Use Google, Bing, or your favorite Web search tool to find more on Arduino, construction how-to, electronics, and build robots. Some places you'll want to visit:
Getting Started with Arduino Robots - See the first installment of ArdBot Episodes
Robot Builder's Bonanza - My book on robot building
Be sure to also check out YouTube, for hundreds of hands-on videos on all things related to mechanical and electronics construction, Arduino, and robotics.