How to Home my Dobot?

If you have used a Dobot robotic arm, it is likely that you have “homed” your Dobot before. Here’s a quick reminder of how it works:

How do I delete a lesson from my classes on EngageK12!

The short answer is that to delete a lesson from a class you need to send us an email for our team to delete it for you. Please email support@RobotLAB.com with the name of the class and which lesson in that class you want to delete. We will delete the lesson or the class within 24hours when the request is made during working days.

DobotStudio just crashed for no reason and I can’t get it to work!

What happened?

General Tips for Cubelets

As we work with our new products, it’s not uncommon for us to find possible issues that we don’t see documented elsewhere on the internet. When that happens, we work hard to find a solution or workaround, and post it to this blog!

I Keep Experiencing Errors on Pepper Even After Restart

How to Move Pepper Robot Around

Before moving Pepper around, make sure that:
1. The floor is flat, dry and there is no rug or a thick carper on the way that could cause the robot to fall.
2. There is at least 120 cm of free space around the robot.
3. You keep Pepper away from steps.

Ozobot Color Coding Doesn't Work Properly

Here are some things to try if your Ozobot robot ignores the color coded instructions:
1. Make sure your lines are the right size.
   In order to make the Ozobot recognize the line,
   it should be about 5 mm wide.
2. Make sure your lines are consistent.
   If the line gets wider or thinner,
   Ozobot may loose the line and stop its motion.
3. Make sure your turns are curved gracefully.
    If the continuation of the line is in parallel and too close,
    the Ozobot robot may see it as the same line
    and won't be able to make the turn.
4. Make sure you don't have sharp curves.
5. Make sure your color coded sequence is positioned correctly.
    The sequence should be surrounded by
    Black lines longer than 2 cm in length.
    All colored components of the sequence should be
    the same size and length,
    without any white space in between or overlapping colors.
6. Make sure the coded sequence colors you are using are not too dark or light.
7. Make sure the sequence is at least 5mm wide
    and no longer than 6 mm in length for a single color.
8. Make sure your color coded sequence is well seen by the robot.
   Keep codes on straight lines away from the corners, 
   away from intersections,
   and at least 2.5 cm apart from each other.
9. Make sure you are using the correct markers 
10. Make sure your robot is fully charged.
     If Ozobot blinks red, then the battery needs to be charged.
11. Make sure your Ozobot robot is calibrated.
12. Make sure your Ozobot robot is clean to allow his sensors a good visibility.

How to Charge Ozobot

Ozobot motor is fueled by a tiny battery.

How to Clean Ozobot

Dust or grease can get into Ozobot Bit’s drive train and affect its movement.

What Markers Should I Use To Color Code Ozobot Robot

Many lessons require black, red, light blue, and light green markers.
It is recommended to use Ozobot markers to ensure that your robot reads the colors reliably.
Crayons, dry erase markers colored pencils, water colors and highlighters should not be used with Ozobot.
You can also use Sharpie wide chisel tips (in pastel colors for blue and green) or Crayola classic markers.
If you are using permanent markers, place an extra sheet of paper underneath to avoid marks on the table surface.
Please note that Ozobot markers should only be used when drawing lines and OzoCodes.
If the markers are used to color in pictures and images then the ink will not last as long.

How to Calibrate Ozobot

It is extremely important to calibrate the Ozobot robot every time you begin playing, when light conditions change and whenever you change your playing surface.
Ozobot’s infrared sensors (also known as its "eyes") are highly sensitive to surrounding light.
As a result, changing paper or moving closer to a window affects Ozobot’s ability to follow lines and read color codes.
Calibration orients Ozobot to the surrounding light and surface.

There are two methods to calibrate the Ozobot robot.

How to Create Your Own Ozobot Playground

In order to create your own playground for Ozobot, you will need:
* A white sheet of paper;
* Thick markers: Black, Blue, Red and Green.

Dobot Discovery: removing attachments safely

One of the advantages of Dobot over other robotic arms is the diverse array of attachments that come included in the system. This robot can manipulate objects with a gripper or suction cup,  draw beautiful designs with robotic precision, 3D print, and even laser engrave! Best of all, switching between the functionalities is as simple as replacing the end attachment.

But don’t forget! The Dobot Magician has an internal computer, and just like your laptop, it doesn’t respond well when you suddenly unplug devices.

What Doesn't Works When Using LittleBits in the Classroom?

• LittleBits can fall off of desks and tables, and often end up getting stepped on.
Using cafeteria trays when students are working with the Little-Bits can help with this problem.

What Works Well When Using LittleBits in the Classroom?

• Allow students to bring in their own materials, such as LEGO or K’Nex, for their projects.

My LittleBits Don't Stick to Structure Surfaces

Potential Solutions to Try:

My LittleBits LED Won't Light Up

Potential Solutions to Try:

My LittleBits Connectors Have Adhesive Residue On Them

Potential Solutions to Try:

My LittleBits Motors Are Not Working Properly

If your Little-Bits motors are running slowly, or one of the motors lags behind, here are some things you should try:

My LittleBits Circuit Isn't Working

Potential Solutions to Try:

How To Take Care of LittleBits in the Classroom

Keeping Your Bits Organized

Dobot - The suction cup bug scenarios

As we work with our new products, it’s not uncommon for us to find small bugs and issues that we don’t see documented elsewhere on the internet. When that happens, we work hard to find a solution or workaround, and post it to this blog! 

The Dobot uses a suction cup attached to an air pump to create a vacuum seal on objects you want to grab, and releases that seal when it’s time to drop the object.

Dobot suction cup is blowing air out!

This is the strangest and most elusive problem we have encountered. I suspect it occurs when the Dobot attachment has recently been switched from the gripper to the suction cup. The gripper uses the air pump to both open and close, using both positive and negative air pressure. The suction cup only uses negative air pressure (or none at all).

Dobot suction cup doesn't seem to be doing anything at all

You may have received a suction cup with a missing/undersized/partly blocked inner hole. Don’t worry, this is an easy fix.

How To Fix Malfunctioning LittleBits

Please try the following before you contact our support if one of your LittleBits doesn't work:

Dobot suction cup isn't sucking hard enough to create vacuum

When using the suction cup od Dobot, you may hear the air pump humming, but the suction cup isn't sucking hard enough to create a vacuum.

3D Printer Filament Is Stuck

Filament can swell inside the extruder and get stuck.
If you cannot unload filament from one of the extruders, do the following:
1. On the LCD panel, navigate to Utilities > Change Filament > Unload. This option heats the extruders.

How to 3D Print With The Most Quality Guid

No More Warps and Cracks

Are your prints curling off the build plate?
This can happen during printing when the air around your print is too cool.
Thermal expansion means that warmer layers closer to the extruder are shrinking, causing strain on the cooler layers below.
The shrinking layers pull at the stable layers, warping the object.
If the bond between two layers isn’t strong, the strain of the warping layers can actually cause cracks in the sides of your objects.

Warping occurs more often with ABS than with PLA because ABS expands more when it’s heated. 

3D Printer Safety Instructions

Dos and don'ts

3D Printer Filament Not Loading

If you are having problems loading filament into one of the extruders, perform the following steps:
1. Using the LCD panel, navigate to Utilities > Filament Options > Unload. This option heats the extruders.
2. Make a fresh cut at the end of the filament. It is important that the filament have no bends in it. If there are bends, cut off the bent section of filament.
3. Insert the filament into the hole at the top of the extruder. Keep pushing it in until you start to see plastic come out of the nozzle.
You might have to apply some pressure.
4. When the filament is successfully loaded, set the extruder lever arm to the closed position.

3D Printer Replicator Shakes

Your MakerBot Replicator will shake during printing if you print at high speeds with acceleration turned off.
Attempting to print at high speeds with acceleration turned off can harm your MakerBot Replicator.
To check and change the Acceleration setting, go to the LCD menu on your Replicator MakerBot 2X and navigate to Info and Settings > General Settings > Accelerate.
You can turn acceleration off and on. Acceleration is turned on by default. If you have acceleration turned off, you should not print at speeds above 40 mm/s.

3D Printer Extrusion Stops

There are a few problems that can cause your MakerBot Replicator to stop extruding. Use this checklist to determine the cause and appropriate solution.

3D Printed Objects Are Difficult to Remove from the Build Plate

If printed objects are difficult to remove from the build plate, try these solutions:
• Wait for the build plate to cool down. Objects will detach more easily when both the plastic and the plate are cool.

3D Printed Objects Do Not Stick to the Build Plate

If printed objects are not sticking to the build plate, try these solutions:

My AR.Drone keeps losing the WiFi connection

Is your drone acquiring and then dropping your WiFi signal, over and over again? We've only seen this happen a few times, but it's a frustrating problem so we wanted to share our fixes. This problem seems to crop up only in a specific situation: you're using the AR.Drone in a room with a metal subfloor, and/or you're using the AR.Drone somewhere with a bunch of competing WiFi networks. We tend to see this happen at convention centers, and the good news is that there's nothing wrong with your AR.Drone or BOX -- it's just the space you're using it in has some signal pollution that makes it hard for the Drone to function at its best. Simply move the Drone to a new location and try again. The problem should disappear!

NAO can’t connect to the “Former Web Page”

1/ Make sure your robot is properly connected to your network (or directly to your computer).

If you're not sure, press NAO's chest button once. The robot should say his IP address (write it down, you'll need it).

2/ Download and Install the software PuTTY on your computer. You can find it here.

3/ Open the software PuTTY and type your NAO's IP address in the "HOST NAME" field. Confirm by clicking on "OPEN".

Autonomous Cars Firmware Update

Has your RobotLAB  Autonomous Car been connecting to Bluetooth, and seemingly connecting to Orchestra, but not responding to any of the code you write?

You don’t have a lemon, your car just needs a Firmware update! Follow these simple steps to get your car running again.

Don't forget to charge your Nao Robot! 

So you just received your new NAO robot... the first thing you want to do is charge it for at least 90 minutes.  Another tip to keep the battery fresh, you should charge it at least once every 90 days (especially if you are not going to be using it for a period of time). As an example, summertime, when you go on break, charge it before you go and charge it once again when you return, this will keep the lithium ion battery from depleting and good to go. 

Now, enjoy your NAO robot have a great day

Are you interested in having a Nao Robot? Ask for a Price Quote Request!

Factory Reset Nao Robot 

Disclaimer: The following support solution will erase the memory on NAO. Make sure you are familiar with disc formatting and know/follow the directions before attempting the following. If you have questions, contact us before attempting this solution.

Let’s try to do a factory reset to the robot. (you can follow this video as well https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=171&v=GOroldPAEzE  )

DoBot Suction cap doesn't hold anything

If you experience a low suction / low pick up rate, you would like to look inside the suction cup and make sure there's no obstruction to the air flow. Sometimes the rubber isn't cut all the way through, you would like to peel it off / remove it, to allow the pump to create the vaccum.

NAO Anatomy: Sensing and Movement on Your Robot

The NAO robot has 25 joints and 25 degrees of freedom, or directions in which motion can occur on its body.  (For comparison, the human body has 230 joints and 244 degrees of freedom, wow!)

NAO's basic channel bug is fixed here's what to do

For the past few weeks if you had basic channel installed on your NAO you probably experienced a frustrating problem, the NAO wouldn't hear or understand your commands. It didn't matter what you said among the sentences that NAO is supposed to understand it wouldn't react. It was stuck in listening mode like that 

NAO robot can't understand voice command

You just received your NAO and you're very excited to discover all it can do and how to use it. You are following all the steps to get started.  The NAO has just registered to the basic channel and it's now ready to engage and interact with you. He's looking at you and you ask " Hello NAO, what can you do ?" The robot looks at you and ignores you . You try again " hey NAO, what can you do ?" ... nothing. As if you were not here. You try another sentence "What's your name?" .. silence, nothing. How frustrated this can be, it's new and already broken. What's wrong with its microphones?

“Warning: the motors are not updated, the robot will not move”                                              What should I do?

I have a warning about motors not updated. It says: “Warning: the motors are not updated, the robot will not move”.

[Support] NAO says: "Error 501, I can't connect to Cloud services, my system date is wrong"

1/ Make sure your robot is properly connected to your network (or directly to your computer).

If you're not sure, press NAO's chest button once. The robot should say his IP address (write it down, you'll need it).

2/ Download and Install the software PuTTY on your computer. You can find it here.

3/ Open the software PuTTY and type your NAO's IP address in the "HOST NAME" field. Confirm by cliking on "OPEN".

If you get the PuTTY security alert window, just click on YES.

The Sphero lesson display is acting strange – the grid keeps disappearing or re-aligning. What’s going on?

This is an old software bug we've fixed in Version 2! Looks like your tablet needs an update!

How do I use my Smart Board with the tablet and lessons?

Simply plug the included HDMI cable into the SmartBoard input and use the Smart Board as your projector. You will need to use the tablet to run the lesson and the robots, though we are always working on ways to improve the lessons -- like taking advantage of the additional Smart Board functionality!

My AR.Drone batteries won't charge/aren't working right. What do I do?

Your AR.Drone uses LiPo batteries. LiPo stands for Lithium Polymer – they’re great because of their light weight and huge power storage abilities, but there are some downsides we’re finding out about. These batteries are very fragile, and there are a few specific procedures for charging and using the batteries that you should know before use.

My Sphero won't connect to my tablet

Having trouble connecting to your Sphero? There are a few things to try, from checking the charge, to re-pairing, but we also have a software update for Sphero available that might fix things. Update to Version 2 now, if you haven't already!

   #1 Give Sphero a good shake; if it doesn’t light up, or if it only shows a red light, the robot needs to be charged (see Charging my Sphero). If you see a pattern of three colors (remember them for step two) then your Sphero is charged; once you’ve determined that you have a fully charged robot and if you’re still having connection problems move on to step two!
     #2 Grab your tablet and turn it on; from the tablet’s homescreen tap on the screen and drag/swipe to the left with your finger to reveal a second panel of apps. Click on the one labeled "Settings." 

RobotsLAB BOX keeps evolving - release notes

We work closely with our amazing teachers and awesome customers to continuously develop more lessons, add features, and improve existing lessons.

We would like to thank our community for all the feedback and the great ideas that we continue to incorporate into the RobotsLAB BOX -- please, keep the suggestions coming!

A new version of the software is released and ready for download every semester -- please make sure your version is up to date. The update process is very easy, just follow the instructions here.

The following is a partial log of the latest changes:

Is your online checkout certified?

Yes, we are certified through PayPal: the friendliest way to pay for Robots. You can pay with any credit card, or with a PayPal account.

If you can’t or don’t want to pay online, we do accept Purchase Orders from schools sent to us by fax or email. Our Fax number is: 415-276-9057, or by email to sales@robotsLAB.com

If you prefer to get a call from us, please click below: 

What if I already have one of the robots?

It's always nice to find robotics fans! If you find yourself in the position of already owning some of the robots included in the BOX, you can control some of the robots you already own using our tablet and lessons,

we prefer you don't do that:

What if a robot breaks?

Never fear! Each box comes with a warranty for one year. For more  information on what each specific warranty contains see this article on our warranties

The image coming from my projector is a weird color. What's going on?

If your tablet's screen looks normal, but the image coming from the projector is the wrong color, the issue is probably in either the projector dongle or the projector. If the tablet screen isn't the right color either, go here.

Once I have the RobotsLAB-BOX what will I need to do before teaching with it?

Open the box and get acquainted with your new robotic teaching assistants. The tablet and robots are charged and fully configured. We've assembled a Quick Start Guide with a sample lesson to get you going, and we suggest you look over the instructions, review the videos for a few lessons, and do a lesson runthrough or two before demonstrating in front of a class. If you’re more a ‘fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants’ kind of teacher, then that’s completely up to you, but it’s at your own risk and possible humiliation.

My tablet is broken. What do I do?

First, let's figure out what the problem might be. Is the Tablet physically damaged (broken case, shattered screen, broken button)? Or is it just not working properly?

Is your tablet just behaving oddly? Not turning on, crashing, making noise but nothing shows up on the screen? Having trouble connecting to your robots? The two best fix-it paths: Charge it, and/or Update it!

My school uses a program that connects to projectors/smartboards over Wi-Fi (miracast, chromecast, etc.). Can I use this with the BOX?

Wireless data streaming programs like Miracast and Chromecast are becoming popular ways to reduce the number of wires, plugs, and cables in classrooms. The short answer, though, is that while you can use these technologies to connect your BOX and tablet with a projector, we recommend that you don't. Your tablet for the RobotsLAB BOX uses its Wi-Fi connection to control the AR.Drone included in your kit. If the tablet is connected to a projector over Wi-Fi, then it will not be able to talk to the AR.Drone, which means you will be unable to run the lesson!

My Mobot won't connect to my tablet.

Follow the respective instructions.

My ARMBot won't connect with my tablet

How to connect the ARMBot to your tablet:

   #1 Make sure ARMBot is plugged in securely. Unlike the other robots in the RobotsLAB BOX, ARMBot needs to be connected to an outlet in order to work. The ARMBot uses the largest charger cable and power supply inside the Accessories Kit.

My ARDrone won't connect to my tablet

How to connect ARDRONE with your tablet:

   #1 Are we charged? Locate ARDrone’s battery (either in the Accessories Kit or inside the ARDrone under the Styrofoam sheath), plug the battery into its charger, and the charger into an outlet. If the charger lights up green, your battery is fully charged. If you see a red light, your battery needs to be charged. Leave the battery plugged in for at least an hour, or until the charger turns green. Once ARDrone is fully charged, connect the battery to the robot, wait until the blades each move slightly and make a sound and then move on to step two.

My AR.Drone isn't flying to the right height

The software on your tablet is designed to limit the height of your drone to 2 meters. If the drone is flying much higher or lower than it is commanded to, there are two possible solutions

1) Have you updated your tablet lately? We regularly release software updates designed to get the best performance from all of the robots. Follow these instructions to update your tablet, check #2, and try again!

I’m not very good with computers, will it be hard to operate the tablet or the lessons?

Absolutely not. The tablet comes fully charged and preloaded with everything you will need. If you still run into problems we are here for you, just reach out and we’ll be happy to help troubleshoot.

I don’t know too much about how robots work, will this be a problem?

Actually, the RobotsLAB-BOX is made with you in mind. We’ve laid out easy to follow, step-by-step visual instructions and instructional videos to make sure you are completely comfortable operating any of the demonstration. You’ll look like a pro, even if it’s your first time working with robots and a tablet. 

Feel free to contact us or email us if you still need support. 

How many robots are included in the standard v.s. deluxe BOX

Each box contains the same four robots; the deluxe version features more lessons and a better warranty. 

How long is the lifespan of one RobotsLAB-BOX?

Like most things, the greater care, the longer its life will be. You can also extend the life of your BOX by purchasing the extended warranty The subject matter and lessons, possibly to the displeasure of some students, are timeless.

How long does it take to receive my RobotsLAB-BOX?

It’s so exciting buying state-of-the-art teaching technology! Lucky for you the average order-to-door delivery time for a RobotsLAB-BOX is less than 14 business days so you won’t have to be on the edge of your seat for long.

How long does each robot’s battery last?

AR.Drone – can fly up to 12 minutes continuously, so use its power wisely.

Sphero – can roll for 60 minutes.

Mobot – Can drive around for more than 90 minutes.

ARMBOT – is always plugged in, so you are good to go until the next power outage. 

How easy is it to carry the box?

The RobotLAB-BOX fully loaded weighs 25lbs and can be carried by three easy to use handles, or you can extend the handle bar and roll the BOX like a piece of luggage. The heavy-duty plastic box is very durable and easy to transport, plus it’s black so it will match anything you’re wearing. Did we mention you look fantastic today?

How do I update my tablet?

We try to release software updates for your RobotsLAB BOX tablet on a regular basis. If you're experiencing any difficulties with your BOX, a software update is often the first thing we recommend to fix things. It's also a great idea just to check in periodically to see if there's a new version, and we'll always send out letters and emails to let you know when we release an update.

How do I charge the Mobot?

First of all, we have three different "species" of Mobot. Look at the pictures below and pick yours out, then follow the instructions!.Charging your Mobot is really easy, but it does take around an hour so leave yourself some time before a planned lesson to check your robot and recharge it if necessary. We also suggest you charge Mobot for a little while after your lesson, so it goes back into the BOX ready for the next teacher!

How do I charge my ARDrone?

Charging your ARDrone is really easy, but it does take around an hour and a half to charge from a completely dead battery, so leave yourself some time before a planned lesson to check your robot and recharge it if necessary. In order to charge ARDrone, simply open up your Accessory Kit inside the RobotsLAB BOX and pull out the ARDrone charger.

How can I charge my Sphero?

Charging your Sphero is really easy, but it does take a few hours to charge from a completely dead battery, so leave yourself some time before a planned lesson to check your robot and recharge it if necessary. In order to charge Sphero, simply open up your Accessory Kit inside the RobotsLAB BOX and pull out the Sphero charger.

How are the robots powered?

The robots are powered through batteries and chargers. The robots and tablet also come fully charged and ready to rock ‘n roll!  

Help! I bought the standard box and now I want to upgrade to the deluxe!

It’s your lucky day; you can upgrade at any time. Please note that the extended warranty and 1 year subscription start from the original purchase date, not the upgrade purchase date. See more about warranties 

Has the RobotsLAB-BOX ever gone on sale? Is there a better time of year to buy it?

Unlike last season’s fashion trends, educational tools never go out of style -- and  RobotsLAB BOX is affordably priced all year round.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes we do! It will take about 14 business days to ship. 

Do you provide professional development for teachers?

Yes we do, please contact us, and we will be happy to provide more details on training, professional development and workshops we offer to our customers.

Do the lessons align with any teaching standards?

Yes! We align with the Common Core, TEKS and STAAR standards. 

Can I purchase additional lessons/robots?

Additional lessons can be purchased on a yearly subscription. Additional robots are not available at this time. 

Can I purchase a warranty? What’s included?

Each RobotsLAB-BOX comes with a 1 year warranty. The Deluxe BOX covers the following: 3 free hardware repairs (including robots, tablet, or accessories) and free shipping.

Can I print out the quizzes?

Absolutely, all the quizzes are loaded as PDF files and are ready for printing at your convenience. 

What is included in the RobotsLAB-BOX?

The Standard RobotsLAB-BOX includes these goodies:

50 Lessons and Quizzes covering standards in Algebra, Physics, Geometry, Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus, 4 Robots, 1 10.1" Tablet, 12 Accessories, a transport case and 1 Year Warranty.

Want more? Check out the deluxe package