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Definitions & Descriptions

1	Release Date	The longer a robot has been out, the more developed the support community is likely to be. In contrast, new robots are likely to have better features with the latest technology.
2	Price	Price in US Dollars obtained as of April 2008 for an unassembled robot. Some robots can be purchased fully assembled, for a higher price.
3	Height	Height based on manufacturer specifications.
4	Weight	Weight based on manufacturer specifications. Weight includes factory issued battery inside the robot.
5	D.O.F.	Degrees of Freedom (or D.O.F) represents the number of joints in the robot, and should equal the number of servos. The more DOF a robot has, the more flexible and human-like it will be. But having more DOF means more servos, so the robot will be more expensive.
6	Frame	The lighter the frame is, the less weight the servos need to move around, and the quicker the robot should be. However, a frame that is too flimsy could easily be bent or damaged by powerful servos, or repeated falls.
7	Torque	Torque is a measure of power or strength a robot has. The bigger the torque number the stronger the robot. Tall robots with heavy metal frames will need more torque. Also, more torque could lead to injury if your fingers get in the way.
8	Speed	Speed in seconds per 60° turn represents how long it takes the servo to move a 60° angle. A lower number means it takes less time to move that distance, and therefore the robot should be faster.
9	Battery Type	Battery type based on standard battery issued with the robot. Most robots can have their battery upgraded.
10	Voltage	Recommended voltage for operation based on manufacturer specifications. Please follow manufacturer specifications carefully.
11	Milliamp Hours	Milliamp Hours (or mAh) tells you the capacity of a battery, and how long it should last. The larger the number the better.
12	Use Time	Battery life based on standard battery issued with the robot, based on manufacturer recommendations. Actual results may vary.

13	Tethered to PC	In order to learn new motions, the robot must be connected to your PC. Make sure you have the right kind of connector to your PC.
14	Remote Control	Remote control options include infrared remotes (similar to your TV remote) or radio controlled remotes (like for RC cars).
15	Wireless	Some robots can be controlled wirelessly from your PC, or even from your mobile phone. Currently, none of the robots described include this option as standard equipment. Wireless control equipment sold separately.
16	Gripper Hands	While all robots come with some sort of hands, they are usually nothing more than molded plastic that are not capable of motion. Gripper hands refer to claws or pincers that can be controlled to open or close, just like any other joint on the robot. Addition of grippers also requires additional servos. Make sure your robot has room to add servos if you want hands. None of the robots described include this option as standard equipment. Grippers and servos sold separately.
17	Stabilizers	While each robot described is able to walk on their own, they are inherently unstable. During fast or sudden movement, they tend to wobble or even fall down. With gyros, tilt sensors or accelerometers as standard equipment, the robot is more stable, motions are smoother, and the robot could even stand up on it's own after a fall.
18	Sensors	Sensors are the way your robot can interact with the world. Sensors can mimic human vision, hearing and touch.
19	Speaker	Most robots do not include a speaker to play sounds.
20	Motions	Each robot typically comes with a number of pre-programmed motions developed by the manufacturer. Simple actions such as walking forward and turning can be difficult for new users to program themselves. Some robots come with complex dance or kung-fu routines. Remember that all of the robots described have the ability to learn new motions, and therefore the number of motions that are pre-programmed is not necessarily and indication of usefulness.
21	English	None of the robots described were created in English speaking countries. Instruction manuals to build your robot and software to program your robot may have been translated into English as an after-thought, or not translated at all. Fortunately, all of the manufacturers have their manuals and software available on-line. Before purchasing a robot, make sure you are comfortable with the manuals and software.

NOTE: These robots are not meant for children. All of the humanoid robot models discussed on this website use
powerful servos that can pinch or even crush your fingers if you are not careful. Consult the recommended minimum
age from the manufacturer before allowing children to use any of these robots.