Does it make a difference what platform? Is there anything you can do with a pc that you can't do on a mac when it come to programming robots or vice versa? Do you guys have a preference? What about Linux?
TIA
Mac or PC for amateur robotics?
Jan 15, 2005
3 Replies
I think there are far more programs and products out there for the PC for developing embedded robotic systems. The MAC is not a common computer platform for embedded developers, or hardware developers in general. Embedded Linux is an up and coming second choice. IMHO
*nix is becoming more and more of an option, but for now, I'd say that almost all of the development tools that are available can be used on the Wintel platform(s). They might also have a version that works under linux, etc., but the most prevalent environment at present is Wintel.
The question you should really be asking, though, is what sort of robot-maker are you? If you're an assembly sort of person, you can get ICE (in circuit emulators) for several microcontrollers. If you're as new to the subject as your question implies (no offense intended), you should consider Wintel and something like the Parallax BASIC Stamp to get started.
Also, look on the web for a robotics club in your area. If everyone in your area uses Mac/Handyboard for their stuff, then you'd probably be able to get more aid from them if you were using the same tools.
ditto. windows is the way way to go. i love macs, but i bought a $50 dell to do embedded design
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