# Robot Drivetrain First Prototype

Build the smallest drivetrain test before adding sensors, autonomy, or payload.

## Outcome
Drive a platform forward, backward, and turn reliably.

## Safe first step
Test motors off the ground before adding load.

## Ladder steps
### 1. Choose drive layout
Learn to choose drive layout as one discrete move in the project path.

Check: You can explain or demonstrate: choose drive layout.

### 2. Wire one side
Learn to wire one side as one discrete move in the project path.

Check: You can explain or demonstrate: wire one side.

### 3. Test slow motion
Learn to test slow motion as one discrete move in the project path.

Check: You can explain or demonstrate: test slow motion.

### 4. Add turn test
Learn to add turn test as one discrete move in the project path.

Check: You can explain or demonstrate: add turn test.

## Examples
### Practice left motor forward
```sh
Left motor forward
```
Expected signal: A visible result you can compare before moving on

### Practice right motor forward
```sh
Right motor forward
```
Expected signal: A visible result you can compare before moving on

### Practice low-speed turn command
```sh
Low-speed turn command
```
Expected signal: A visible result you can compare before moving on

## Common traps
- Adding autonomy before manual drive works.
- Ignoring battery voltage sag.
- Testing full speed first.

## Practice task
Create a small practice case for robot drivetrain first prototype and write what each step proves before moving to the next one.

## Next steps
- Download the Obsidian note.
- Review the Anki cards.
- Pick one related ladder and do the practice task.

## Related
- [Browse topic clusters](/topics/)
- [All learning ladders](/learn/)