Variobot varikabi Instructions Manual page 58

Startup Procedure
Connect the battery clip to the battery and test
varikabi, preferably on a smooth and bright floor
to prevent it from falling off the table.
If your circuit is constructed correctly, varikabi will
move towards the light and avoid dark objects.
However, if you cover the middle sensor with your
hand, varikabi will quickly move straight ahead.
varikabi compares the brightness via its three
sensors. Depending on the orientation of the
sensors, it detects the light conditions on the
ground, ahead, or above itself.
Unlike other robots, varikabi doesn't need to emit
infrared light to detect lines or objects, for
example. This simplifies the circuit and reduces
power consumption.
Since varikabi responds to the differences in
brightness, however, it is important to pay
attention to the type of lighting in the room.
Notes on Lighting
To ensure varikabi's sensors aren't blinded by the
light sources, make sure varikabi is well positioned
in relation to lamps and windows.
Operate varikabi preferably under a distant
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light source or beneath a window on the floor.
If light comes from the sides, varikabi might
follow this light or its own shadow instead of
moving towards the desired goal.
When using LEDs or fluorescent light bulbs,
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ensure the lighting is bright enough for
varikabi to detect it.
The light from LEDs and fluorescent light bulbs
has a low red component and isn't easy for
varikabi's sensors to detect.
Make sure the ground does not reflect light.
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