Hacking the MiP - Proto Pack
This Tutorial is Retired!
This tutorial covers concepts or technologies that are no longer current. It's still here for you to read and enjoy, but may not be as useful as our newest tutorials.
CaseyTheRobot 
Overview
The MiP Robotic Platform is the first self-balancing robot that you get to control and with which you can play games. The MiP can drive, dance, plays games, battle with other MiPs, respond to simple hand motions and can be remotely controlled by a compatible iOS or Android device. But did you know you can hack it?
The hacking port breaks out the following signals: * GND - A ground connection to the battery on the MiP * RX - A 3.3v signal level UART receive pin * TX - A 3.3v signal level UART transmit pin * 6v (Battery) - Raw battery power
Required Materials
There are a few components that you will need in order to exploit that port.
- MiP Expansion Cable - 4"
- MiP Expansion Socket - 4-pin JST
- Screw- Phillip Head (M3 x 12mm, 3 pack)
- Nut - Metal (4-40, 10 pack)
- Screw - Phillips Head (1/2", 4-40, 10 pack)
- PCB MiP Proto-Pack
- MiP Robotic Platform
- 4x Alkaline Battery - AAA
Once you have all the parts you need, let's get started!