Rating: 
Summary: Poorly written
Review: This book is all tired re-hash from the first edition. Very incorrect mechanical drawings, most of the circuits don't work, poorly researched with many error! This book will frustrate you so much, you'd be better off buying a book on origami :-) Some of the newer authors have got it right - try books by Myke Predko, John Iovine or Karl Williams - way better.
Rating: 
Summary: good book for building robots
Review: This book is the best I have seen at introducing how to construct robots or other mechatronics projects. I like the survey of multiple alternative microcontrollers, from Basic Stamp II to OOPIC to Basicx.The only couple things I would have liked improved or added:
Even though there are three chapters on Lego Mindstorms, sometimes it skimps on a description or example and just points you to the appendix of web links. No mention of lejos, the java VM for RCX. The book doesn't mention USB at all and mostly focuses on the parallel port. I know most all robotic projects still use the serial or parallel port, but nowadays computers are being made without them. Even Mindstorms is USB. Although this is a 2nd edition, some of the material still feels old like that. It still talks about laptops like they are something new.
Rating: 
Summary: Stop dreaming about building a robot and learn how
Review: This is a great book for the more experienced and the eager to learn. If you ever wanted to build a robot just for fun, or one that will work for you, here is your chance. How to's on Construction, materials, controls, everything is included. This a great gift for anyone iterested in electronics, robots, computers, ect.
Rating:
Summary: A Welcome Updated Edition of a Classic
Review: This second edition of Robot Builder's Bonanza provides a much needed update on the rapidly expanding interest in mobile robotics. Many amateurs started their robot building hobby with the appearance of the first edition in 1987. Since then there has been many updates in the sensors and especially microprocessors available for robot builders. Gordon McComb brings us up-to-date on this technology while maintaining the valuable construction tips and techniques of the first edition. Every book has an intended audience. I know of no better book than Robot Builder's Bonanza for beginners in this fascinating and future technology. The book is also a valuable compendium of ideas and techniques for more experienced robot builders. Finally, if you're a tinkerer, you have to have this book.
Rating:
Summary: A 'must' for any serious robot builder's reference shelf
Review: This updated second edition of Gordeon McCombs' Robot Builder's Bonanza includes plenty of new plans and step-by-step instructions for building a robot, from a minibot and roverbot to a pepbot and Lego lightbots. New to this edition are insights on LEGO-based robots, fixed and mobile Servo motor systems, infrared, laser and other sensory equipment, and more. Robot Builder's Bonanza is a 'must' for any serious robot builder's reference shelf.
Rating:
Summary: As Good As It Gets
Review: To date, I have read six introductory books on robotics, and this one is the best of them. I received it as a gift from my father-in-law, an electrical engineer. The Robot Builder's Bonanza is as close as you can come today to owning the consummate hobby robotics manual.
Rating:
Summary: Great Book for Basic-Intermediate Robotics level
Review: Very recommended. Full of ideas and tricks. Cover all areas of Mobile Robotics. Clear about electronics, mechanics and programming.
If you have a basic or intermediate level it will be really useful and really worth the price.
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