first robot

well if it has a crystal then its definatly not a 2.4ghz :)

Sounds like a crystal for a 27MHz unit, which is probably what it will be if it was used for an RC car. To be honest, that will most likely give you very glitchy control over a robot in the arena and you'd be better off buying a new transmitter. They're not as expensive as they used to be; when I started in this hobby I paid £120 for a 40MHz radio system, but now you can get a 2.4GHz transmitter and receiver for £36:

http://www.sussex-model-centre.co.uk/sh ... p?id=29064

The 2.4GHz frequency means that you'll not suffer interference in the arena, leading to good control. You also don't need to fit a protruding aerial in your robot either, which is beneficial if you plan to make a robot that can run both ways up

I agree with Jamie, couldn't recommend going to 2.4ghz more highly. Best decision I ever made.

thanks for the replys, i have been looking at those planet 5 transmitters for a while il have a look around and see whats the cheapest i can get one, that website you gave me seems to be out of stock atm.

their is also one thing im not sure about, how do i know how to connect what component to what? im sure it will all make sence when i get the parts but what do most people do?
i may take a look at my dads rc car maybe that will stop me from being confused :lol:

Its fairly simple once you see the bits laid out. RC cars don't always work in quite the same way. A good thing to do would be to try and come to an event, any roboteer on this forum would let you have a look inside their machine.
Put basically though, your basic 2 motor speed controller has a place to attach the 2 motors, either by screw block or solder, and a place to attach the battery, and then leads that plug into your reciever. And that's basically all it is, minus essentials such as removable links and power lights, but they're easy enough.

ok thanks, i guess it will be obvious when i get the parts.
i dont think il be able to visit any events soon, im only 15 and cant exactly get to anywhere distant (i hate trains :p ) but il see if i can get my parents to take me to one once my exams are finished in may and il have more time.

im 14 and i manage :P. IF there are any local events ion the horizon try and get your parents interested, its a fun day out evne if your parents dont like the robot bit much :rofl:. Or try and find some roboteers near you and ask if you can visit them and have a look at there bots, you really need to see a combat robot in the flesh before you start building or you start designing it with goals not suited to a good combat robot, my first bit was un upturned inbox with mdf duct taped to it !!!

ok thanks, il see if their are any events around me. is their a minimum age limit for events?

not at all, Many people around mine and your age have feather weights and antweights.