The mBot educational robot works with a Bluetooth connection, so that it can be programmed from a tablet. It is now sold as a pack (Bluetooth mBot Explorer Kit).
It is off course possible to program mBot robots from a computer by following these two simple methods:
Using Makeblock 2.4GHz Wireless Serial Module. Simply plug the module into your computer USB port and the wireless module onto your mBot’s mCore board. This video shows you how to set up the wireless module.
You will need this Bluetooth dongle even if your PC or laptop already embedded a Bluetooth chip.
In any case, the mBot robots can be programmed on a computer, with the code being transferred via a USB cable.
Get familiar with the mBot educational robot
The mBot robot by Makeblock is an educational robot that can be used from the age of 11 to teach programming and STEM while having fun. Easy to assemble and connect thanks to the colour code used on its mCore board, it offers lots of functionalities for carrying out a wide variety of amusing and creative activities.
You can program your robot using the app or mBlock software (a visual programming editor inspired by Scratch) and it’s compatible with the Makeblock Me modules, Arduino IDE and LEGO building bricks, so you can customise your robot almost to infinity. It is a secondary school level robot and comes with teaching manuals, making it ideal for use in introduction. It also includes a Bluetooth module, a line-follower module, an infrared controller for remote management and an ultrasonic sensor.
New features of the blue mBot v1.1 Bluetooth robot
Already familiar with v1 and with the mBot robot accessories? In version 1.1, Makeblock has made some clever changes:
A protective shell for the mainboard, which also avoids any risk of glare from the LEDs
A more efficient and quieter omnidirectional mini nylon castor wheel, replacing the mini steel wheel
Technical specifications of the Bluetooth mBot v1.1
Software and programming: mBlock for Mac, Windows, iPad mBlockly, Arduino IDE
Inputs: light sensor, button, IR receiver, Me ultrasonic sensor, Me line-follower module
Outputs: buzzer, RGB LED, IR transmitter, 2 motors, ports
Microcontroller based on Arduino Uno
Power: 3.7V lithium battery with on-board charger, or 4 x 1.5V AA batteries (not included)
Wireless communication: Bluetooth
Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 9 cm
Weight: 1,034 kg assembled
Colour: blue
Includes:
1 chassis
1 mCore board
1 mCore protective shell
1 IR controller
1 Bluetooth module
1 Me ultrasonic sensor
1 Me line-follower module
2 motors
2 wheels
1 mini nylon castor wheel
1 AA battery holder
1 lithium battery shell
1 line-follower map
2 RJ25 cables
1 USB cable
2 Velcro sticker pads
1 screwdriver
4 M4 x 25 mm brass studs
4 M2.2 x 9 mm self-drilling screws
8 M3 nuts
6 M3 x 25 mm screws
15 M4 x 8 mm screws
6 M3 x 25 mm screws
Warning :the mBot robot is not a toy. It is designed for use in the classroom with teacher supervision.
Resources for the mBot v1.1 Bluetooth robot
You will find everything you need below to enjoy your mBot v1.1 Bluetooth robot to the full!