Page 36 - Hacking Roomba

Chapter 1 — Getting Started with Roomba 17

FIGURE 1-12: The OSMO//hacker

This is a one-time use device that plugs into the Roomba to be upgraded. The OSMO//hacker
upgrades the Roomba and from that point on, the module is no longer needed.
There are two variations of this $30 device, and you must inspect your Roomba’s serial num-
ber to determine which variation you need. If you have one of these older third generation
Roomba models, visit http://irobot.com/hacker for details on how to determine which
OSMO//hacker module is right for you.

Summary

iRobot has created an astounding variety of Roomba vacuuming robots over the years, and
hopefully this chapter assuages the confusion as to which Roomba models are hackable. Even if
you feel a little reluctant about hacking a brand new Roomba and decide to buy a used one on
eBay or from your local classified ads, it would be a shame to get one that’s not hackable.
Regardless of what type of Roomba you have, the next time you run it, see if you can determine
what basic impulses are competing to create the complex actions it performs. Seeing a real device
implement subsumption architecture is fascinating. From looking at how the Roomba is built
and its capabilities, you may have ideas on how to improve it or add on to it.