FAQ | ToolBox Robotics Assembly & Troubleshooting

Answers to common ToolBox Robotics questions, including actuator assembly tips like freeing up tight planetary gears before final assembly.

Which arm should I choose?

It depends on your build goals: the EB-15 and EB-65 are the lightest, lowest-cost entry points (NEMA17 motor); the EB-100 is the most compact (NEMA14 motors); and the EB-300 and EB-310 use a mix of NEMA17/NEMA23 motors for higher holding torque, with the EB-310 being the most rigid overall. See the comparison table on the Robotic Arms page.

What operating system does the control software need?

The ToolBox Robotics control software runs on Windows (7, 8, 10, or 11) and requires Python 3.7 and the Arduino IDE for the Mega 2560 driver.

What's the difference between the standard and "M" actuators?

The standard actuators (EBA-17, EBA-17-S, EBA-23, EBA-34) use a 38.4:1 gear ratio. The EBA-17-M line (3mm and 6mm ball bearing versions) uses a higher 120:1 ratio for 4Nm of torque — pick the "M" version when torque matters more than speed.

Actuator — Planetary gears not turning or stuck?

When assembling the planetary gears, they may be tight and/or difficult to insert the first time — this guarantees the actuator won't have backlash during operation.

Before closing completely and inserting the balls, operate the actuator freely in both directions. The gears may jam slightly the first time the motor runs after assembly — that's normal; add a little current to the motor driver and run it freely until the planets rotate freely, then realign the planets on their arrow, close the actuator, and insert the balls.

Which servo motor works with the grippers?

The EBG-20 needs an MG995 servo motor or higher. The EBG-30 needs an MG996 servo, or a higher-torque 15KG/20KG/25KG servo if you need more grip force.