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Getting Started chapter
with Roomba
Robot has produced a dizzying variety of Roomba vacuuming robots
since the original Roomba model was introduced in 2002. They now
ihave even the Scooba, a robot that washes floors.
Compared to other robotic vacuum cleaners, the typical Roomba robotic
vacuum cleaner is very inexpensive at under $300 for even the most in this chapter
expensive Roombas and $150 for the least expensive. The cheapest
new Roombas can be found for around $100 on the Internet. For a Uncover how
vacuum cleaner that’s a pretty good price. For a robot that’s also a vacuum
cleaner, that’s an amazing price. And for a robotic vacuum cleaner that’s Roomba evolved
hackable by design?
Explore which
Roomba models
Quick Start are hackable
If you’re already familiar with Roomba, know it’s compatible with the Examine the
Roomba Open Interface (ROI), and you’d like to start hacking immedi- components of
ately, skip to Chapter 3 to begin building some hacks. If you’re uncertain Roomba
which Roomba you have, if it is hackable through the ROI, and want to
learn the details on the ROI protocol that enables all these hacks, keep Learn about the
reading.
OSMO//hacker
All projects in this book will utilize the Roomba Open Interface module
(ROI). It was previously known as the Roomba Serial Command
Interface (SCI) and you’ll find many references to the SCI on the
Internet. It’s exactly the same as the ROI; only the name has
changed.
What Is Roomba?
Roomba is an autonomous robotic vacuum cleaner created by iRobot
Corporation. To operate, Roomba requires no computer and no technical
knowledge from its owner. It only needs a power outlet and occasional
cleaning, like any vacuum cleaner.