2. Materials

Here’s what you’ll need to follow along:

• Pololu 16-servo controller (that’s what we’ll use; you could use any other serial device)
• A PC with a serial port running Microsoft Windows or Linux. If your PC doesn’t have a serial port, USB serial port adapters are available for just a few dollars.
• A serial cable to connect your device to the computer. For most devices, a “modem” or “extension” cable is what you want. Don’t get a “null modem” or “crossover” cable unless you know you need it.