Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I'm confused by the terms EZ-Robot, EZ-B, EZ-SDK, and EZ-Builder. What do they all mean?
EZ-Robot is the name of our company. Actually, it is EZ-Robot Incorporated. Read More
The EZ-B is the robot controller circuit board; the heart of your robot.
The EZ-Builder is our software that gives life to your robot.
The EZ-SDK is our software development library for robot programmers.

Q. Is there an EZ-B Datasheet or Setup Manual?
Yup! It's right here! You will also enjoy our Tutorials.

Q. I want video tutorials!
You do? Okay! Click Here. :)

Q. Where can I find technical information about the EZ-B?
Please read the full description of the product to fully understand its scalability. You can find product information here.

Q. Why was EZ-Robot created?
The simple answer? We want to help you build really cool robots!
Embedded micro-controller kits (where your program sits on the chip, like Arduino) is limiting in many ways. The method of writing complex C code, compiling, connecting programmer to PCB, transferring code to chip, testing, rinse, repeat is not desirable and hinders creativity. Also, microcontrollers are slow and have limited I/O. Your computer is very fast with USB and Bluetooth I/O! Combining EZ-B with your PC creates a powerful and flexible foundation that fuels your imagination. Good bye embedded microcontroller code, and hello powerful PC driven speech recognition, camera tracking, joystick controlled and talking autonomous robots!

Q. Is the EZ-B similar to Arduino?
If you are familiar with Arduino, then EZ-Robot is your next step to building impressive Personal Robotics. The knowledge you have learned from the Arduino, shields and 3 wire sensors transfer easily to the EZ-B. The EZ-B Robot Controller is Arduino Shield Compatible! Plus we add Bluetooth Connectivity, Speech Recognition, Color Recognition, Motion Recognition, i2c, and more!

Q. Does EZ-Builder allow custom scripting or programming?
There are two methods of writing scripts within EZ-Builder.

a. EZ-Script is our programing language created for use within the EZ-Builder software. It is a powerful and custom language that leverages the ability for interactions between controls to create custom behaviors of your robot.

b. VB and C# are compiled in real-time against the runtime. The code is actually used within the runtime, itself. The compiler is the .Net CLR in conjunction with the EZ-Builder runtime. As far as I’m aware, EZ-Robot is the only company in the world doing this. When the user enters code, the code is compiled and executed within the memory-space of the EZ-Builder runtime, in real-time. It’s VERY different to understand, but imagine programming against the host compiler while the program is running. It allows anyone to create their own controls, forms, windows, graphics, etc. within EZ-Builder, in real-time :). The source code is saved on a per project basis. Projects can either be saved locally to the machine, or to the EZ-Cloud (which saves on our server over SSL). This is a great feature for educational courses because teachers and students can load the hosted project files from our cloud.

Q. Are configuration files compatible between different operating systems?
The Apple MFI Robot edition of EZ-Builder runs on iPad and iPhone devices. The configuration files are exchangeable between the Windows, Android and MFI editions. The mobile (MFI/Android) version of EZ-Builder obtain their configuration files from the EZ-Cloud. So a user creates their project on the Windows PC, saves project to EZ-Cloud, and loads the project from EZ-Cloud to their mobile device (MFI/Android).

Q. Will EZ-Builder run on a Mac?
EZ-Builder will run in Parallels in Windows on a Mac but not in OS/X. We don’t have an OS/X version planned. We are currently at over 50,000 lines of code and don’t have the resources to employ development for other operating systems.

Q. Is there a version of EZ-B that will not require a computer?
We do envision a version of our hardware where the software is embedded within the physical hardware. We currently direct people (who require that setup) to use affordable mini PC based computers (Roboboard, Fit-PC or Mini-ITX).

Q. What is the EZ-Robot goal?
Our goal is to continue providing an all-in-one solution to support personal robotics. After all, it were the hobbyists that sparked the computing revolution in the 80's... It's our time with robotics.

Q. I have Arduino, is it an easy transition to the EZ-B?
Let's put it this way: Simplicity, Power and Flexibility are the key features of EZ-Robot. This includes taking advantage of EZ-B's speech recognition, joystick support, camera object recognition and more! EZ-B is the next step for Arduino Users who focus on robotics and DIY projects. So the answer is, Yup!

Q. Do I have to be a programmer to use the EZ-B?
Nope! We supply Robot Control Software called EZ-Builder. You can download it here. EZ-Builder is a graphical control application that was customized for the EZ-B. You can connect up to 5 EZ-B's to EZ-Builder!

Q. What is the EZ-B Bluetooth Pairing code?
It is 1234. Read the manual!

Q. Is the EZ-B already assembled when I order it?
Yes.

Q. Can I order an EZ-B that is not assembled?
No.

Q. Does the EZ-B come only in Bluetooth versions?
Yes. Originally, DJ had created RS232 and USB versions. DJ found Bluetooth to be far more convenient.

Q. Can I use EZ-B with XBee?
You sure can! The EZ-B's bluetooth module is simply plugged in and stuck to the top of the microcontroller IC. You can easily remove the bluetooth antenna and connect a Synapse or XBee module in its place with a few modifications.

Q. My PC/Laptop does not have Bluetooth. Can I still use EZ-B?
Yes, you may purchase a USB dongle from our Online Shop.

Q. Who is this DJ Sures guy?
Find Out!!

Q. How do I upgrade the EZ-B Firmware?
There is a lifetime firmware upgrade for the EZ-B. You can upgrade your firmware by downloading the latest EZ-Builder and running the Firmware Upgrade Utility. As always, check the Tutorials section for videos and help.

Q. How is the EZ-B powered?
We ship the EZ-B with a battery holder for 6 AA cells. The EZ-B has a barrel jack (outside negative, inside positive) power connector. You may power the EZ-B with an AC/DC Power Adapter or the included battery pack.

Q. Is the EZ-B Open-Source?
We encourage any code you develop using the EZ-B SDK to be released Open-Source and protected under any software license you choose. The code for DJ's robots are released under the DIY section of this website and will always be open source. For hardcore hackers and modders, the EZ-SDK allows wonderful new opportunities for custom robots, projects and interfaces.

Q. Is it okay that the voltage regulators get real hot?
If you are driving a few servos, the regulators will get very hot and can burn your skin.

Q. Is the EZ-B considered an educational learning tool?
Most definitely yes. However, do not be fooled by the simplicity of the EZ-B Project; it packs a technical punch! Our vision is to provide a platform for both beginner and advanced users. EZ-Robot demonstrates logic, structure and modular process design to beginners. Advanced users can jump right into development utilizing the .Net SDK. Contact us for educational pricing for institutions.

Q. How long does it take to ship the EZ-B?
Your assembled, programmed and tested EZ-B will be shipped within 24 hours or the same business day. Normally, orders before 2 PM Mountain Time will be shipped the same business day. North America deliveries take between 8-10 business days. International orders normally take 10 business days, however we have seen 15-20 business days in the past for some countries and areas. Every order has been successfully delivered.

Q. Where is EZ-Robot HQ located?
We are in Calgary, Alberta Canada! Up in the frozen north, where we have nothing better to do than build robots. :)

Q. Is the EZ-SDK and EZ-Builder only for Windows?
Currently the answer is yes. The development of EZ-Builder and EZ-SDK is very extensive with thousands of lines of complex code. There isn't enough time for DJ to develop against multiple operating systems. However, we are currently developing support for iOS and Android.

Q. Any Disclaimers?
EZ-Robot products are sophisticated electronic devices. They are not intended for children under the age of thirteen without parental supervision. Do not change or modify EZ-Robot Products except with approved accessories or supported EZ-Robot instructions.