In-Depth Guide: Robotics Tools & Software

Table of Contents

1. Overview: Curated List of Popular Robotics Tools & Software
2. Robotics Tools (Hardware & Accessories)

   2.1. Microcontrollers & Single-Board Computers

   2.2. Sensors

   2.3. Actuators

   2.4. Robotic Kits & Platforms

   2.5. Prototyping Accessories

3. Robotics Software

   3.1. Robot Operating Systems & Simulation Tools

   3.2. Algorithm Development & Data Processing Libraries

   3.3. Industrial Robot Programming Software

4. Conclusion

1. Overview: Curated List of Popular Robotics Tools & Software

This section provides a quick, curated overview of some of the most popular robotics tools and software. These selections are ideal whether you are an enthusiast getting started, an educator looking for hands-on platforms, or a professional developing advanced robotic systems.

Popular Robotics Tools

• Arduino
  A versatile microcontroller platform used for building interactive projects—including robots. It is perfect for both beginners and experts.
  Discover Arduino →
• Raspberry Pi
  A compact, affordable computer that serves as the heart of many robotics projects, enabling tasks from simple automation to complex processing.
  Discover Raspberry Pi →
• Lego Mindstorms
  An educational robotics kit that combines the fun of Lego with programmable hardware, ideal for introducing robotics and coding concepts.
  Explore Lego Mindstorms →
• VEX Robotics Kits
  Widely used in education and robotics competitions, these kits offer a complete platform for hands-on learning and innovation.
  Visit VEX Robotics →
• Universal Robots (Cobots)
  Collaborative robots designed for industrial automation. They are easy to program and safe for working alongside humans.
  Visit Universal Robots→

Popular Robotics Software

• Robot Operating System (ROS)
  An open-source framework providing libraries and tools to help developers create robot applications. It is a standard in both academic research and industry.
  Get started with ROS →
• Gazebo
  A powerful simulation environment that allows developers to test and refine robot designs in a virtual world before deploying them in real life.
  Learn more about Gazebo →
• MATLAB Robotics Toolbox
  An extensive suite from MathWorks offering tools for modeling, simulation, and analysis of robotic systems—ideal for both research and development.
  Explore MATLAB Robotics →
• CoppeliaSim (formerly V-REP)
  A flexible simulation platform that supports a wide range of robot models. It is commonly used for testing algorithms and training robots in a virtual environment.
  Visit CoppeliaSim →
• OpenCV
  An open-source computer vision library frequently used in robotics for image processing, object detection, and visual feedback systems.
  Discover OpenCV →

2. Robotics Tools (Hardware & Accessories)

Modern robotics development relies on a combination of computing platforms, sensors, actuators, and various accessories. Below is a detailed list of widely used hardware tools with technical descriptions and their primary use cases.

2.1. Microcontrollers & Single-Board Computers

Arduino Uno

• Technical Description:
  • Processor: ATmega328P microcontroller running at 16 MHz
  • Memory: 32 KB flash memory, 2 KB SRAM, 1 KB EEPROM
  • I/O: 14 digital I/O pins (6 PWM outputs), 6 analog inputs
  • Connectivity: USB interface for programming and serial communication
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Prototyping simple robotics projects
  • Educational platforms for learning electronics and programming
  • Controlling sensors and actuators in small to medium-sized robotic systems
• Link: Arduino Uno Rev3

Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

• Technical Description:
  • Processor: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A72 CPU at 1.5 GHz
  • Memory: Options from 2 GB up to 8 GB LPDDR4 RAM
  • Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, USB 3.0 ports
  • Video: Dual monitor support via micro-HDMI with 4K resolution
• Primary Use Cases:
  • High-level control and processing in robotics (e.g., computer vision, AI applications)
  • Edge computing and interfacing with external sensors or actuators
  • Running lightweight server applications for remote robot control
• Link: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

2.2. Sensors

Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04)

• Technical Description:
  • Range: 2 cm to 400 cm
  • Accuracy: ±3 mm under optimal conditions
  • Interface: Digital trigger and echo pins
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Obstacle detection and avoidance in mobile robots
  • Distance measurement in automated systems
• Link: Adafruit Sensors or SparkFun Sensors

LIDAR Sensor (RPLIDAR A1)

• Technical Description:
  • Scanning Range: Up to 12 meters
  • Scanning Frequency: Up to 10 Hz
  • Resolution: 360° panoramic scanning with an angular resolution of approximately 1°
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Mapping and navigation (SLAM) in autonomous robots
  • Real-time obstacle detection for mobile platforms
• Link: RPLIDAR A1

Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) – MPU-9250

• Technical Description:
  • Components: 3-axis gyroscope, 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis magnetometer
  • Interface: I²C and SPI communication
  • Performance: High sensitivity and low noise characteristics
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Motion sensing and orientation tracking in drones and mobile robots
  • Stabilization systems for robotics applications
• Link: MPU-9250

2.3. Actuators

Servo Motors (e.g., Dynamixel MX-28)

• Technical Description:
  • Torque: Approximately 2.5 Nm (depending on the model and operating voltage)
  • Speed: Fast response time with precise control
  • Communication: Supports TTL or RS-485 for multi-servo networks
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Articulated joint movement in humanoid and industrial robotic arms
  • Precise positioning in robotics and mechatronic systems
• Link: Dynamixel MX-28 by ROBOTIS

DC Motors

• Technical Description:
  • Types: Brushed and brushless variants
  • Specifications: Vary by model; common parameters include RPM, voltage rating, and torque
  • Control: Typically controlled via motor drivers (H-bridge circuits)
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Drive systems for mobile robots (wheeled or tracked)
  • Propulsion in automated vehicles and conveyors
• Link: Dynamixel MX-28 by ROBOTIS

Stepper Motors (e.g., NEMA 17)

• Technical Description:
  • Step Angle: Typically 1.8° per step
  • Torque: Varies with model; common in low- to mid-range applications
  • Control: Requires stepper motor drivers for micro-stepping control
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Precise positioning in CNC machines and 3D printers
  • Applications requiring repeatable and accurate movement in robotics
• Link: Dynamixel MX-28 by ROBOTIS

2.4. Robotic Kits & Platforms

LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3

• Technical Description:
  • Components: Modular bricks, integrated sensors (gyroscope, touch sensor, color sensor), and servo motors
  • Programming: Visual programming interface as well as support for Python and other languages via community add-ons
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Educational robotics and STEM learning
  • Rapid prototyping of mobile or manipulator robots
• Link: LEGO MINDSTORMS

VEX Robotics Kits

• Technical Description:
  • Components: Structural parts, sensors, motors, and controllers within a robust ecosystem
  • Programming: VEX Coding Studio offers both graphical and text-based programming options (including C++ and Python)
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Competitive robotics and educational robotics challenges
  • Research and prototyping for various robotics applications
• Link: VEX Robotics

Universal Robots (Cobots)

• Technical Description:
  • Design: Collaborative robots designed for industrial automation
  • Features: User-friendly programming interfaces, built-in safety features, and flexible integration
• Primary Use Cases:
  • Automation in industrial settings
  • Tasks requiring close human-robot collaboration
• Link: Universal Robots

2.5. Prototyping Accessories

• Breadboards & Jumper Wires:
  • Technical Description: Solderless boards and connecting wires that allow for temporary circuit prototyping; available in various sizes and configurations.
  • Primary Use Cases: Rapid prototyping of electronics circuits, sensor interfacing, and system testing.
• Link: Breadboards & Jumper Wires
• Soldering Stations:
  • Technical Description: Temperature-controlled soldering irons or reflow stations used for permanent circuit assembly.
  • Primary Use Cases: Building custom circuit boards and assembling or repairing electronic modules for robotics.
• Link: Soldering Stations
• 3D Printers (e.g., Prusa i3 MK3S):
  • Technical Description: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers offering high resolution and reliability.
  • Primary Use Cases: Fabricating custom parts, enclosures, and prototyping mechanical components for robotic systems.
• Link: Prusa i3 MK3S

3. Robotics Software

The software layer in robotics encompasses operating systems, simulation environments, and development libraries that enable design, testing, and real-world deployment. Below are some of the most popular robotics software packages with details on compatibility, supported programming languages, key features, and official download links.

3.1. Robot Operating Systems & Simulation Tools

ROS (Robot Operating System)

• Compatibility:
  • Primarily designed for Linux distributions (Ubuntu is most common), with community ports available for Windows and macOS.
• Programming Languages:
  • C++ and Python are the primary languages for developing ROS nodes.
• Key Features:
  • Modular, message-based communication architecture
  • Extensive libraries and tools for navigation, manipulation, perception, and more
  • Large community support and a rich ecosystem of packages
• Official Download Link: ROS.org
• Guides: ROS Guides

Gazebo

• Compatibility:
  • Available on Linux, Windows, and macOS
  • Often integrated with ROS for simulation
• Programming Languages:
  • Core written in C++; supports plugins in C++ and Python interfaces
• Key Features:
  • High-fidelity physics simulation
  • Realistic sensor simulation (cameras, LIDAR, IMU, etc.)
  • Robust support for multi-robot systems and dynamic environments
• Official Download Link: Gazebo Sim
• Guides: Gazebo Robotics Guide

Webots

• Compatibility:
  • Cross-platform: Linux, Windows, and macOS
• Programming Languages:
  • Supports C, C++, Python, Java, and MATLAB for robot controller programming
• Key Features:
  • Comprehensive robot simulation with realistic physics
  • Extensive library of robot models and sensors
  • Suitable for both academic research and industrial prototyping
• Official Download Link: Webots by Cyberbotics
• Guides: Webots robotics guide

3.2. Algorithm Development & Data Processing Libraries

OpenCV

• Compatibility:
  • Cross-platform: Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
• Programming Languages:
  • Primarily C++ and Python (with additional support for Java and others)
• Key Features:
  • Extensive library for image processing and computer vision
  • Functions for feature detection, object recognition, and machine learning
  • Widely used in robotics for navigation, tracking, and autonomous decision-making
• Official Download Link: OpenCV
• Guides: Open CV Guide

MATLAB & Simulink Robotics System Toolbox

• Compatibility:
  • Runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS
• Programming Languages:
  • Uses the proprietary MATLAB language for scripting and modeling
• Key Features:
  • Tools for robot modeling, simulation, and algorithm development
  • Integration with hardware for rapid prototyping and testing
  • Extensive toolboxes for computer vision, deep learning, and control systems
• Official Download Link: MATLAB Robotics System Toolbox
• Guides: Matlab Guide

3.3. Industrial Robot Programming Software

RobotStudio (by ABB)

• Compatibility:
  • Designed for Windows environments
• Programming Languages:
  • Uses ABB’s proprietary RAPID programming language
• Key Features:
  • Offline programming and simulation of industrial ABB robots
  • Virtual commissioning and path planning
  • Real-time integration with physical robots for testing and validation
• Official Download Link: RobotStudio
• Guides: RobotStudio Guide

CoppeliaSim (formerly V-REP)

• Compatibility:
  • Cross-platform: Windows, Linux, and macOS
• Programming Languages:
  • Built-in scripting with Lua; supports external control via Python, C++, Java, and more
• Key Features:
  • Versatile simulation environment for complex robotic systems
  • Rich API for integrating custom control algorithms and sensor models
  • Supports multi-robot simulations and real-time interaction
• Official Download Link: CoppeliaSim
• Guides: CoppeliaSim Guide

Other Helpful Links:

Robot Framework is a generic open source automation framework. It can be used for test automation and robotic process automation. It has easy syntax, utilizing human-readable keywords. Its capabilities can be extended by libraries implemented with Python or Java.

The Robotics Library (RL) is a self-contained C++ library for robot kinematics, motion planning and control. It covers mathematics, kinematics and dynamics, hardware abstraction, motion planning, collision detection, and visualization.RL runs on many different systems, including Linux, macOS, and Windows. It uses CMake as a build system and can be compiled with Clang, GCC, and Visual Studio.

Robot Structural Analysis Professional is structural load analysis software developed by Autodesk that verifies code compliance and uses BIM-integrated workflows to exchange data with Revit. It can help you to create more resilient, constructible designs that are accurate, coordinated, and connected to BIM.

PowerMill is a software developed by Autodesk that provides powerful, flexible, easy-to-use tools for offline programming of robots. Get tools to help you optimize robotic paths and simulate virtual mock-ups of manufacturing cells and systems.

ROS is robotics middleware. Although ROS is not an operating system, it provides services designed for a heterogeneous computer cluster such as hardware abstraction, low-level device control, implementation of commonly used functionality, message-passing between processes, and package management.

ROS2 is a set of software libraries and tools that help you build robot applications. From drivers to state-of-the-art algorithms, and with powerful developer tools, ROS has what you need for your next robotics project. And it’s all open source.

MoveIt is the most widely used software for manipulation and has been used on over 100 robots. It provides an easy-to-use robotics platform for developing advanced applications, evaluating new designs and building integrated products for industrial, commercial, R&D, and other domains.

AutoGluon is toolkit for Deep learning that automates machine learning tasks enabling you to easily achieve strong predictive performance in your applications. With just a few lines of code, you can train and deploy high-accuracy deep learning models on tabular, image, and text data.

Gazebo accurately and efficiently simulates indoor and outdoor robots. You get a robust physics engine, high-quality graphics, and programmatic and graphical interfaces.

Robotics System Toolbox provides tools and algorithms for designing, simulating, and testing manipulators, mobile robots, and humanoid robots. For manipulators and humanoid robots, the toolbox includes algorithms for collision checking, trajectory generation, forward and inverse kinematics, and dynamics using a rigid body tree representation. For mobile robots, it includes algorithms for mapping, localization, path planning, path following, and motion control. The toolbox provides reference examples of common industrial robot applications. It also includes a library of commercially available industrial robot models that you can import, visualize, and simulate.

Intel Robot DevKit is the tool to generate Robotics Software Development Kit (RDK) designed for autonomous devices, including the ROS2 core and capacibilities packages like perception, planning, control driver etc. It provides flexible build/runtime configurations to meet different autonomous requirement on top of diversity hardware choices, for example use different hareware engine CPU/GPU/VPU to accelerate AI related features.

Neurorobotics Platform (NRP) is an Internet-accessible simulation system that allows the simulation of robots controlled by spiking neural networks.

ViSP is an open-source visual servoing platform library, is able to compute control laws that can be applied to robotic systems.

ROS Behavior Trees is an open-source library to create robot’s behaviors in form of Behavior Trees running in ROS (Robot Operating System).

g2core is an open-source motion control software for CNC and Robotics, designed to run on Arduino Due class microcontrollers.

ur5controller is an open-source OpenRAVE controller for UR5 robot integrated with ROS.

RBDL is an open-source (zlib) C++ libray for both forward and inverse dynamics and kinematics. Also supports contacts and loops.

Unity Robotics Hub is a Central repository for open-source Unity packages, tutorials, and other resources demonstrating how to use Unity for robotics simulations. Includes new support for ROS integration.

Arduino is an open-source platform used for building electronics projects. Arduino consists of both a physical programmable circuit board (often referred to as a microcontroller) and a piece of software, or IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that runs on your computer, used to write and upload computer code to the physical board.

ArduPilot enables the creation and use of trusted, autonomous, unmanned vehicle systems for the peaceful benefit of all. ArduPilot provides a comprehensive suite of tools suitable for almost any vehicle and application.

AirSim is a simulator for drones, cars and more, built on Unreal Engine (we now also have an experimental Unity release). It is open-source, cross platform, and supports hardware-in-loop with popular flight controllers such as PX4 for physically and visually realistic simulations.

The JPL Open Source Rover is an open source, build it yourself, scaled down version of the 6 wheel rover design that JPL uses to explore the surface of Mars. The Open Source Rover is designed almost entirely out of consumer off the shelf (COTS) parts. This project is intended to be a teaching and learning experience for those who want to get involved in mechanical engineering, software, electronics, or robotics.

Light Detection and Ranging(LiDAR) is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser at an object, and uses the time and wavelength of the reflected beam of light to estimate the distance and in some applications (Laser Imaging), to create a 3D representation of the object and its surface characteristics. This technology is commonly used in aircraft and self-driving vehicles.

AliceVision is a Photogrammetric Computer Vision Framework which provides a 3D Reconstruction and Camera Tracking algorithms. AliceVision aims to provide strong software basis with state-of-the-art computer vision algorithms that can be tested, analyzed and reused. The project is a result of collaboration between academia and industry to provide cutting-edge algorithms with the robustness and the quality required for production usage.

CARLA is an open-source simulator for autonomous driving research. CARLA has been developed from the ground up to support development, training, and validation of autonomous driving systems. In addition to open-source code and protocols, CARLA provides open digital assets (urban layouts, buildings, vehicles) that were created for this purpose and can be used freely. The simulation platform supports flexible specification of sensor suites and environmental conditions.

ROS bridge is a package to bridge ROS for CARLA Simulator.

ROS-Industrial is an open source project that extends the advanced capabilities of ROS software to manufacturing.

AWS RoboMaker is the most complete cloud solution for robotic developers to simulate, test and securely deploy robotic applications at scale. RoboMaker provides a fully-managed, scalable infrastructure for simulation that customers use for multi-robot simulation and CI/CD integration with regression testing in simulation.

Visual Studio Code Extension for ROS is an extension provides support for Robot Operating System (ROS) development.

Azure Kinect ROS Driver is a node which publishes sensor data from the Azure Kinect Developer Kit to the Robot Operating System (ROS). Developers working with ROS can use this node to connect an Azure Kinect Developer Kit to an existing ROS installation.

Azure IoT Hub for ROS is a ROS package works with the Microsoft Azure IoT Hub service to relay telemetry messages from the Robot to Azure IoT Hub or reflect properties from the Digital Twin to the robot using dynamic reconfigure.

ROS 2 with ONNX Runtime is a program that uses ROS 2 to run on different hardware platforms using their respective AI acceleration libraries for optimized execution of the ONNX model.

Azure Cognitive Services LUIS ROS Node is a ROS node that bridges between ROS and the Azure Language Understanding Service. it can be configured to process audio directly from a microphone, or can subscribe to a ROS audio topic, then processes speech and generates “intent” ROS messages which can be processed by another ROS node to generate ROS commands.

Happy building and innovating!