New forum member in Manchester UK

It's only when I start introducing myself, that I realise how socially inept it's possible to be!

Greetings from Manchester (U.K.). I'm Howard, a getting on a bit enthusiast of limited skills, but keen to build on the little I understand so far.

Firstly, a huge thanks to Bill, who has such a wonderful way of explaining everything. Having been raised in an era, when a teacher would throw information at you, and then assume a clout across the head would ensure instant understanding, it's no wonder that I regarded anything to do with physics and mathematics as being for others with a quicker grasp on the subjects. 

Fast forward to my early thirties when thanks to some wonderful teachers at college, I discovered that I wasn't as stupid as I'd been led to believe. Sadly, despite earning a H.N.D. in mechanical and production engineering, I've never practised any engineering discipline.

As I approach retirement age (with little interest in actually quitting work), I'm now indulging in some of the forbidden territories that used to so fill me with dread. In particular micro-controllers and electronics. The Arduino's are wonderful. But for me, the current stumbling blocks are centred around programming in C. To my own astonishment, I have little trouble with the hardware side of things. With my main are of interest being in robotics, or some form of display lighting, the Arduino is a great learning platform. But my C limitations are frustrating. (Needs to try harder)

I've been following the Dronebot workshop for about a year now, and am very pleased that now, like minded souls of mixed ability can put out problems and solutions in one place. I suspect that like so many such forums, there will be someone (e.g. me) with a problem that has baffled me for weeks, receiving a solution from another member whose understanding is way beyond my own. I only hope that I don't tie up too many other people and prevent them from accomplishing their own goals.

My initial objective is to build a revolute robot. Based on the MeArm (which I have), but larger, more precise, more controllable and using stepper motors which have always fascinated me. 

At some point during the next two years, I'll probably buy a 3D printer. Mostly it will be to engineer parts for my robot, but as and when lockdowns end, it would also be used to make accessories for a friends model railway. Now there's an area for Arduino's to really get to work.

Looking forward to engaging with whoever's here.

Howard