Asked
Resolved Resolved by DJ Sures!

Benefit Of Onboard Computer

Hello to all the members of the community here.

I am starting to build an InMoov robot project using ezb controllers and want to understand what if any is the benefit of adding a onboard computer to the project is?   Also what computer configuration would be best to use?

Currently I am going to be using a IoTiny in the head and two ezb4’s in the chest.


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Synthiam
#1   — Edited

There's a lengthy writeup here, and if you haven't checked that section, it's a good idea to now (save you a lot of headaches in the future, haha): https://synthiam.com/Support/Get-Started/how-to-make-a-robot/computer-configuration.

Am I guessing you mean EZ-Robot EZBs?

In my opinion, USB is better than connecting all of the EZB's over WiFi and experiencing wifi issues. Having to deal with wifi for every ezb is just one more thing to go wrong.

Also, USB gives you a much faster response time for peripherals (i.e., moving servos). USB latency is in the microsecond range, where WiFi latency is in the millisecond range (1,000 times faster with USB)

Lastly, when you want to use the robot, it's easier with USB because you don't have to power on and connect all the wifi devices and such.

#2   — Edited

Wow thank you for the fast reply to my question I will check out the link you provided.  But it sounds link the onboard pc has many benefits for the build.

Ok I had time to review the link you sent me I think the best way to go would be the LattePaanda with Windows 10 and ARC installed on it.  My next question is can I use VNC or something like that from my notebook to control it so I don't so I don't have to mount a screen on the robot?

#3  

Thank you DJ Sure,  I appreciate your help.  If you have anything else you can add on my followup question please do.

#5   — Edited

Latte Panda is excellent for running ARC but the older Original one is really picky on the power source..for example I have a Nimh 8.4 volt 3000 MA R.C. battery high performance, yet the Panda refuse to power up full as not enough amps to Start the small HDMI view screen. Then I have the really expensive 7.4v Lipo 5000 50c burst rating and it will run the Panda no problem for about 1 hour. I have also tried several 12 volt lead acid batteries, the one tractor utility battery with 18 Amp hour should be able to start Panda but sadly no ,same problem as the 8.4 Nimh.Then I tried a battery for a E bike at 12 amp/hrs and it does have stronger amps to run Panda for about 1 hour. That Panda is very very picky on power.Even certain USB wall power plugs not good enough so don't be discouraged if Panda fails to start, upgrade the Amp rating on your power...some of the DJ tips on running headless very helpful too, in my case it could be the small hdmi screen using up too many amps, so running without can help.

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Synthiam
#6   — Edited

Did you look at the battery solution in that section? I run a rock pi for about 8-10 hours with the small low cost battery from that. I’m on my phone so you’ll have to navigate to the link. But it’s in the same section.

the battery from that support page will run your latte panda with no issues. All versions. It’s a real good battery solution for sbc

i have around a dozen robots running that battery. That’s latte panda and rock pi and atomic pi and up board. Mainly cause I build a robot for every thing that I show on live hacks:)

#7  

No not seen that, will have a look,  unless it was the battery power pack you talked about on the live hack bought at Amazon.