Adding wifi to control a uno basic motor driven robot

Former Member over 11 years ago

I have a uno with an dual hbridge motor controller and two motors

attached to a uno

i was thinking of adding wifi to allow me to drive the robot from an app or a joystick

Any advice on how start ?

Thanks

Former Member over 11 years ago

This is the robot i want to add wifi
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shtuk41 over 11 years ago

I used XBee modules (https://www.sparkfun.com/pages/xbee_guide) for my GPS tracker project - 2 radios (https://www.sparkfun.com/products/8665), and 2 XBee Explorer USB. It is very easy to use, just follow instructions to program in a channel for communication. Otherwise you just attach the modules to UART ports of robot and joystick microcontrollers and use it like regular serial communication.
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dougw over 11 years ago

You can get a WiFi module for your arduino, but it is cheaper to get a Bluetooth module such as an HC-05 with carrier card to make connection easy. This could be controlled from a smart phone or a PC.
Arduino Tutorial #8 - Controlling Robots with Bluetooth (HC-05) - YouTube
Arduino AND Bluetooth HC-05 Connecting easily
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Robert Peter Oakes over 11 years ago

Just have to remember they will all have limited range of maybe 30 feet, if this is plenty then your good to go. the Bluetooth should be lower power if run time is a concern.

Your other choice is a simpler radio to a controller. Perhaps an NRF24L01 or a sub 1Ghz to increase the range. a simple board on the PC or PI would facilitate the remote connection to IP connected devices.

Just an option but of course slightly more complex
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Former Member over 11 years ago in reply to dougw

I heard blue tooth has limited distance and drops off all the time
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shtuk41 over 11 years ago in reply to Former Member

Dropping connection can be annoying....But I like the idea of getting control with a smart phone! Xbee worked perfect for me inside the house, but it also dropped the connection outside, so I guess you would have to include a connection recovery in your design with either technology ....
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dougw over 11 years ago in reply to Former Member

I use an HC-05 which is Bluetooth class 2 (30 meters) connected to my Galaxy Note and it works well throughout my 2-story house, including through walls. If you want better range you can get a Bluetooth class 1 device (100 m).
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