The Guide to Robotics Programming Languages

Robotics Programming Languages: Finding the Best Language Resources

Are you interested in the world of robotics? Have you been looking to learn how to program these incredible machines? Use this guide to help you understand the different robotics programming languages, their advantages and how you can get started.

At Universal Technical Institute (UTI), we offer Robotics & Automation Technician programs that cover the robotics fundamentals!¹ The programs include a programming course where students learn basic programming concepts and gain operational knowledge of programming.

Keep reading to get an idea of which programming language suits your needs and how to start your robotics journey.

What Is a Robot Operating System?

The Robot Operating System (ROS) is a framework used for writing robot software. It provides the tools and libraries you need to build complex robot applications. But what exactly does ROS do? Here are some of its uses and why it’s important:

• ROS offers a set of software libraries and tools that help you build robot applications. Whether you're working on a small hobby project or a large industrial robot, ROS provides the framework to get things moving. It's like having a toolkit designed for robots.
• ROS enables communication between different parts of a robot. Imagine a robot arm that needs to pick up an object and place it somewhere else. ROS allows the sensors, actuators and control algorithms to work together well.
• ROS is often found in the industry, making it a valuable skill to learn. Many companies use it for developing their robotic systems.

Advantages of Using ROS (Robot Operating System) in Robotics Programming

One of the biggest advantages of using ROS is its modularity. This means you can break down your robot's functions into smaller, manageable pieces. For example, you can have separate modules for navigation, perception and manipulation that all work together.

Another advantage is the community support. Since ROS is open source, a large community of developers contributes to its improvement. This means you'll have access to a wealth of resources. That includes tutorials, forums and pre-built packages that can save you a lot of time.

Additionally, ROS supports several programming languages, including C++ and Python. This allows you to choose the language you're most comfortable with or the one that best suits your project's requirements.

Best Programming Language for Beginners in Robotics

If you're new to robotics programming, you might be wondering which language to start with. Python is often recommended as the best programming language for beginners in robotics.

Python is easy to learn and read, making it an excellent choice for those who are starting out. Its syntax is straightforward, and it has a large standard library that simplifies many common tasks.

Another reason to choose Python is its rich ecosystem of libraries and frameworks. For example, libraries like NumPy and SciPy are great for scientific computing, while libraries like OpenCV are perfect for computer vision tasks.

Python is also well-supported in the ROS ecosystem. Many ROS packages are written in Python, and it's commonly used for scripting and automation tasks.

Commonly Used Programming Languages in Robotics

When it comes to programming robots, several languages are commonly used. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on the requirements of your project.

C++

C++ is often used in robotics due to its performance and efficiency. It's ideal for real-time systems and low-level hardware control. If you're looking to learn how to program robotic languages, C++ is a great choice. This is especially true for tasks that need high performance.

Python

Python, as mentioned earlier, is popular for its simplicity and ease of use. It's commonly used for high-level scripting and quick prototyping. You might find Python to be a quicker alternative to C++ programming.

Java

Java is another language used in robotics, particularly in educational settings. It offers a good balance between performance and ease of use. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Key Features of a Good Robotics Programming Language

Several key features are important to note when choosing a programming language.

1. Performance is crucial. Robots often need to process data and make decisions in real-time, so a language that offers high performance is essential.
2. Ease of use is important, especially for beginners. A language with a simple syntax and a large community of users can make the learning process much smoother.
3. Flexibility is a key feature. A good robotics programming language should support a wide range of tasks. This includes low-level hardware control to high-level data processing.
4. Support and resources are vital. Languages with extensive libraries, frameworks and community support can save you a lot of time and effort.

Most Important Skills Needed for Robotics Programming

If you’re thinking about programming robots, take note of these skills. Most programmers who excel in their craft usually have these skill sets:

• Problem-solving is one of the most critical skills. You may encounter challenges that require creative solutions. Being able to think critically and troubleshoot effectively is essential.
• Mathematics is another important skill. Many robotics tasks involve complex calculations, so you'll need a solid understanding of math. Particularly in areas like algebra and geometry, which is beneficial.
• Hardware knowledge is also crucial. Understanding how different components of a robot work together, and being able to interface with hardware, is essential for robotics programming.

Challenges of Programming Robots With Language

Programming robots comes with its own set of challenges.

One of the biggest challenges is complexity. Robots often have many components that need to work together seamlessly. Ensuring that all parts of your code interact correctly can be a daunting task.

Real-time constraints are another challenge. Robots often need to operate in real-time, meaning they must process data and make decisions almost instantaneously. Achieving this level of performance can be difficult, especially for beginners.

Debugging is also more challenging in robotics than in other fields. When something goes wrong, it can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause. Is it a software bug, a hardware issue or a problem with the environment? Effective debugging skills are crucial.

Best Resources for Robotics Programming Languages

There are plenty of resources available to help you learn robotics programming languages.

Robotics and automation programs are a great way to dive into robotics. At UTI, we offer a hands-on program that can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue an entry-level role.¹ To learn more about what the program covers, check out our robotics courses!

Books are another valuable resource. Titles like "Programming Robots with ROS" and "Learning ROS for Robotics Programming" provide in-depth coverage of robotics programming concepts and practical examples.

Communities and forums can also be helpful. Websites like Stack Overflow, Reddit and the ROS Discourse forum are great places to ask questions, share knowledge and connect with other robotics enthusiasts.

Learn How To Program Robotic Languages

Robotics programming is an exciting field, full of opportunities for those willing to learn! By understanding the different programming languages and their applications, you’ll be taking the first step.

Ready to start your robotics programming journey? Request more info and an Admissions Representative will reach out. Start your journey today and see where it takes you; fill out an application here.