I read the second (not pictured) edition of this book by David Cook. I refer to this one, not the pictured first edition in this review.
I found this book a very comprehensive guide to building basic robots- although only one robot (David Cook named it Sandwich after the sandwich container it uses as a body) is included in this book, the parts and techniques explained could certainly help you make many more. Sandwich is a line-following robot and although I am sure it is simple by robotics standards, it is still an ambitious project for someone with little or no experience in robotics, such as me. If you plan to read this book and make Sandwich, I suggest
he's not joking when he says "for beginners" -- this is robot building for someone who has never done anything mechanical or electrical, and it's comprehensive and excellent, covering electronics, how to use multimeters and do soldering, math needed for figuring out what discrete components are required, and what sort of designs work well.
This book gave a very good introduction into robot building and getting hardware for projects. Such an joy to read and easy to understand. It did not just get me interested in electronics it also got me interested in control theory a subject which im currently studying. This book is highly recommended as a first introduction to electronics and also robot building.
An absolutely amazing book! I just swallowed it over 2 long nights and definitely will buy a paper copy to keep on my table for a first month or two of doing electronics. While not being a perfect book on robot building, it serves an excellent practical and simple introduction to electronics yet with advices full of wisdom of a seasoned professional.
Seemingly good intro to robot building. ("Seemingly" only bc I didn't do any of the actual robot-building yet.) Easy to read and understand. Besides covering practical electronics such as components and tools, it offers advice and thoughts on robotics, parts, etc.