How to Start?

One question I'm often asked is: How to start? 

​Here are my recommendations.

Robotic sets

  • The Robotics TXT Discovery Set provides all the components to start exploring robotics. The 400 € set includes the Robotics TXT controller and the Windows-only software. Models embrace mobile as well as fixed robots.
  • The Starter Set for micro:bit is an interesting option at a more affordable price around 130 €. It requires an additional BBC micro:bit for 20 € extra, totalling 150 €. It supports a wide offer of development tools: block-based MakeCode, Python, and the Arduino SDK.
  • The Bluetooth Smart Beginner Set relies on a simplified controller and development tool and is priced accordingly at 180 €. The controller can be managed from an Android or iOS tablet over Bluetooth or from a Windows-only laptop through USB.
  • A separate 9V accumulator with AC charger is required. fischertechnik lists one at €60 but you may use another.

Complements

As a nice complement, one of the following boxes provides additional elements for more flexibility and more elaborate models.
  • The Creative Box Basic brings 630 elements at €120 plus a box to keep all the pieces sorted. 
  • The box Universal 3 comes at €70 with 500 elements as a cheaper alternative. 

Exploring other fields of robotics

Later on, other fields of robotics could be explored with the following sets at 210 €.
  • The Electro-Pneumatic set includes a compressor, solenoids, piston rods and opens the world of pneumatic and vacuum command. 
  • The Automation Robots set deals with industrial robots. The high bay storage is a really impressive piece of technology.
  • The Robotics TXT Smart Home Set explores the internet of things with home automation. It includes includes a camera with microphone, a light sensor and a climate sensor to measure temperature, humidity, pressure and air quality.

Legacy

Although no longer listed, those sets can still be found at interesting prices.
  • The Robo TX Training Labs set offers great value at €300 and includes the TX-C controller and the PC software. Models embrace mobile robots as well as fixed robots. The Robotics TXT Discovery Set replaced it in 2014.
  • The Creative Box 1000 brings 720 elements at €100 plus a box to keep all the pieces sorted. The Creative Box Basic replaced it in 2020.
The prices listed above are the official MSRP. Some retailers offer different prices. For more information, please refer to the official fischertechnik website.

The pictures of the boxes come from the fischertechnik website.

Posted: 05 Jun 2014
​Updated: 07 Mar 2020