A beginner-friendly robotics project featuring a wireless-controlled tank robot using Arduino Uno and PlayStation 2 controller. This responsive robot moves forward, backward, and pivots using analog stick control with deadzone handling for precision movement. Perfect for learning hardware-software integration in robotics!
Copyright: https://www.instructables.com/Arduino-Robot-With-PS2-Controller-PlayStation-2-Jo/
- 🎮 Wireless PS2 Control: Responsive analog stick control with D-pad fallback
- ⚡ Dual Power System: Separate batteries for motors (12V) and control system (9V)
- 🔋 Safety First: EVA foam insulation layer prevents short circuits
- 🤖 Modular Code: Easy-to-understand motor control functions
- 📶 Deadzone Handling: Filter out analog stick noise for precise control
- 🔄 Auto-Stop: Halts immediately on controller disconnect
| Component | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arduino Uno | 1 | Rev3 recommended |
| L298N Motor Driver | 1 | H-Bridge module |
| PS2 Controller + Receiver | 1 | Must include wireless receiver |
| Geared DC Motors (6-12V) | 2 | 100-300 RPM recommended |
| Aluminum Tank Chassis | 1 | With tracks and wheels |
| 18650 Batteries | 2 | For motor power |
| 9V Battery | 1 | For Arduino |
| EVA Foam Sheet | 1 | 3mm thickness |
Full BOM: See bill_of_materials.md
Follow the step-by-step guide in the Assembly Instructions
graph LR
A[Chassis] --> B[Insulation]
B --> C[Electronics]
C --> D[Wiring]
D --> E[Power]
Connect components as specified in Pin Mapping:
-
Install required library:
# Using Arduino IDE Library Manager Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries > Search "PS2X"
-
Upload the main sketch:
File > Open > src/tank_robot_ps2.ino Sketch > Upload -
Verify connection in Serial Monitor (57600 baud):
Found Controller, configured successful DualShock Controller Found
| Control | Action | PS2 Button |
|---|---|---|
| Forward | Both tracks forward | Left Stick ↑ or D-Pad Up |
| Backward | Both tracks reverse | Left Stick ↓ or D-Pad Down |
| Pivot Left | Right forward, left reverse | Left Stick ← or D-Pad Left |
| Pivot Right | Left forward, right reverse | Left Stick → or D-Pad Right |
| Stop | Release controls | Auto-triggered |
Modify the analog stick sensitivity in code:
// src/tank_robot_ps2.ino
const int MAX_SPEED = 200; // Reduce for slower movement (0-255)Adjust deadzone threshold for analog sticks:
const int DEADZONE = 25; // Increase for looser sticks-
Enable controller vibration:
ps2x.read_gamepad(true, 100); // Enable vibration at 100ms
-
Add LED indicators for direction:
// Define LED pins #define LED_FRONT 9 #define LED_REAR 2
Common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Motors vibrate but don't move | Swap IN1/IN2 connections |
| PS2 controller not detected | Verify 3.3V power to receiver |
| Arduino resets during movement | Add capacitor to motor terminals |
| Uneven track movement | Calibrate motor speeds in code |
Full troubleshooting guide: troubleshooting.md
Distributed under the MIT License. See LICENSE for more information.