DIY Robot + CIMs?
 

I've been doing robotics for a few years at my school and was looking to build my own bot in my free time. I was looking at the AndyMark Cheap & Dirty Electronics Kit (for 2 or 4 motors), which you can find here http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-2493.htm. I'm still fairly new to robotics and wiring so was curious about a few things. Can standard CIM motors be run safely by the 40A Waterproof ESC with Reverse (http://www.andymark.com/product-p/am-2521.htm) found in the kit? If anyone has any better ideas or suggestions on how to make a cheap drive train please let me know!

Re: DIY Robot + CIMs?
 

If you do not expect to exceed 40A for more than a very short period, this looks like a good solution. If you're going to get into a pushing contest, or other application where you need more than a quarter horsepower mechanical output per motor for any length of time, switch to FRC-legal motor controllers.

Re: DIY Robot + CIMs?
 

Take a look at the SPARK motor controller. http://revrobotics.com/spark

It is $5 cheaper than the one you linked to and is rated for 60amps, with a bunch of other features. It was designed to be a low cost solution for FRC applications, so I am sure it would work for your application.



Greg