Create
0.5 Hours
$600/unit
Beginner
iRobot has released an educational robot based on their popular roomba vacuum cleaner line. The robot, called the Create, has the same capabilities as the vacuum cleaner minus the vacuuming. In this recipe we show how to hook the Create up to a Qwerk, allowing you to program and control it at a distance.
Please note that you can complete this recipe in two different ways. In the first, the Qwerk and Create are powered by separate batteries. The advantages of this are that the Qwerk can be on without the Create being on, and the assembly process is easier. In the second case, the Qwerk is powered by the Create’s internal battery. This is cheaper and cleaner, but requires that you solder a custom power cable. Steps for how to do either option are in step 3 of this recipe.
Also note that the Create standard package from iRobot does not include a battery pack, but is instead powered by D-cell batteries. We strongly suggest that you purchase the pack and charger from iRobot. See the optional parts section for a part number.
Required Tools
| Image | Tool | Source | Part Number | Price |
 | #1 Phillips Screwdriver | McMaster | 5682A27 | $3.20 |
 | Scissors | | | |
Optional Tools (For Advanced Version)
| Image | Tool | Source | Part Number | Price |
Parts
| Image | Part | Source | Part Number | Quantity | Price |
 | Qwerk Serial Connector | | | {qty} | Included in Qwerk kit |
 | Serial Cable with telephone jack (RJ11) | | | {qty} | Included in Qwerk kit |
 | Create Serial Cable | iRobot | 4814 | {qty} | Included with Create |
 | Logitech Communicate STX Webcam | Amazon | | {qty} | $42.49 |
 | Zonet ZEW2501 802.11G Wireless 54 Mbps USB Adapter | Amazon | | {qty} | $25.99 |
 | USB A male Right Angle to USB A Female 3-inch Adapter (USB 2.0) | Pacific Custom Cable | USBAMRAF-3IN | {qty} | $8.00 |
 | Velcro Strips with adhesive backing, 3/4" thick | McMaster | 9776K71 | {qty} | $5.86 |
Parts for Basic Recipe: No Soldering
| Image | Part | Source | Part Number | Quantity | Price |
 | 7.2V 1500mAH or similar RC Car Batteries | Tower Hobbies | LXERB4 | {qty} | $7.99 |
Parts for Advanced Recipe: Soldering required
| Image | Part | Source | Part Number | Quantity | Price |
 | Female Kyosho Battery Connector | Tower Hobbies | LXD171 / LXD169 | {qty} | $1.49 |
 | DB25 Connector | Digikey | 1225ME-ND | {qty} | $2.09 |
Optional Parts
| Image | Part | Source | Part Number | Quantity | Price |
 | Create Standard battery and charger | iRobot | 4810 | {qty} | $69.99 |
The quantities mentioned here are the minimum required for the recipe. In some cases, you will be subject to a minimum purchase of more than these quantities
