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Hitec ROBONOVA-I

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The Hitec ROBONOVA-I is a legacy 16-servo humanoid robot kit designed for assembly, RoboBasic programming, walking motions, robotics clubs, and early humanoid education.

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Payload
No rated load-handling payload
Max Speed
Hitec did not publish a standardized travel-speed rating
Runtime
Approximately 1 h under typical use
Navigation
RoboBASIC, PC serial and IR remote
Environment
Indoor classrooms and hobby labs
Best For
Humanoid programming and motion control

OVERVIEW

The Hitec ROBONOVA-I is a legacy programmable humanoid robot kit built for mechanical assembly, walking sequences, remote-controlled demonstrations and early hobby robotics education.

It combines a metal articulated frame, 16 HSR-8498HB digital robot servos, the MR-C3024 controller, RoboBasic and RoboScript programming, an infrared remote and a rechargeable NiMH power system.

ROBONOVA-I is best suited to collectors, makers and robotics clubs restoring classic humanoid hardware, rather than buyers who need modern software, autonomous perception or guaranteed replacement parts.

Its metal frame, programmable servos, and classic RoboBasic environment make ROBONOVA-I most relevant to restoration, historical robotics study, and hands-on experimentation with early hobby humanoid systems.

IS THIS ROBOT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Good fit if...

Not ideal if...

APPLICATIONS AND USE CASE FIT

Cleaning
Warehouse transport
Material handling
Inspection
Security / patrol
Delivery / service runs
Palletizing / stacking
Pick and place / sorting
Welding / fabrication
Manufacturing automation
Human interaction / service
Home / personal use

KEY FEATURES

16-servo humanoid

Classic articulated design with dedicated digital robot servos across the body.

Metal frame kit

Hands-on mechanical assembly teaches brackets, alignment, wiring, and joint setup.

MR-C3024 controller

Legacy controller supports stored motions, I/O, and programmed robot behaviours.

RoboBasic programming

Designed around Hitec’s RoboBasic and RoboScript development workflow.

Infrared remote control

Supports demonstration and manually triggered motion sequences.

Discontinued platform

Best approached as a restoration or legacy education purchase, not a current product.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Robot type

Educational humanoid robot

Main purpose

Humanoid programming and motion control

Operating environment

Indoor classrooms and hobby labs

Deployment

Discontinued; support ended 2012

Payload / load capacity

No rated load-handling payload

Reach

No rated arm-reach figure

Mobility

Programmable walking, turning, dancing and acrobatic motions

Manipulation

Articulated arms without industrial grippers

Max speed

Hitec did not publish a standardized travel-speed rating

Runtime

Approximately 1 h under typical use

Power source

Five-cell 6 V rechargeable NiMH battery pack

Navigation / control

RoboBASIC, PC serial and IR remote

Sensors

Infrared receiver and servo-position feedback; expansion sensors were optional

Dimensions

Approx. 310 × 180 × 90 mm

Weight

Approx. 1.3 kg

SUPPLIER

Within 1-2 days
Ochang, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea
Worldwide through regional distributors; ROBONOVA-I is discontinued
Manufacturer

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Hitec ROBONOVA-I cost? +

The Hitec ROBONOVA-I no longer has a current official retail price because it is a discontinued legacy robot. Historical new-kit pricing varied by market, while present-day cost depends on used condition, completeness, spare servos and seller. The final Hitec ROBONOVA-I cost should be compared as a complete usable package rather than as a headline hardware number. Freight, taxes, duties, accessories, software, training, installation, support and regional service can materially change the amount a buyer pays.

Because this is a legacy product, condition, missing parts, software access and repairability may matter more than the original list price. A low used price can become expensive if batteries, controllers, actuators or licences are unavailable. The safest approach is to request an itemised quotation and confirm what is included, what is excluded and who supports the system after delivery or during the project. You can request a Hitec ROBONOVA-I quote through Anton Robots to compare the complete package before buying.

Before comparing offers, write down the intended application, operating environment, expected utilisation, required accessories and the point at which the purchase will be considered successful. For the Hitec ROBONOVA-I, important cost drivers include replacement robot servos, battery rebuilds, USB-to-serial adapters, spare brackets and screws, alternative controllers, sensors, and legacy software-compatible computers.

Ask each supplier to price the same scope and separate mandatory equipment from optional upgrades. Also identify recurring software, cloud, maintenance, consumable, travel or service costs where applicable. This creates a realistic first-year and ownership budget rather than a misleading comparison of base prices.

Where can I buy the Hitec ROBONOVA-I? +

The Hitec ROBONOVA-I is a legacy product and should not be represented as a normally stocked new robot. Anton Robots can help buyers check remaining dealer inventory, used-market availability, refurbishment options or current alternatives.

Do not assume that an online listing is complete or supported. Confirm the controller, power system, software, cables, accessories, manuals, condition and ability to transfer any required accounts or licences. For legacy hardware, a tested complete unit is usually safer than the cheapest listing. Anton Robots can also compare a current educational humanoid or smart-servo development kit with active software and parts support if a current supported platform is the better choice.

To check options, contact Anton Robots before purchasing. Verify the seller’s legal business details, product experience, service location and authority to supply the system. Request the exact model or revision, serial information where available, written package contents, delivery terms and support escalation route. For a professional purchase, ask for references or application evidence related to humanoid assembly, servo programming, walking sequences, remote-controlled demonstrations, and legacy robotics education. Payment terms should be tied to clear milestones, and any deposit, cancellation or return conditions should be understood before funds are transferred.

Where can I find a Hitec ROBONOVA-I for sale? +

You may find a Hitec ROBONOVA-I for sale through used robotics sellers, auctions, collectors, specialist dealers or remaining old inventory. Availability does not mean the unit is ready for use. Ask for serial or revision details, photographs, a functional demonstration, package list and evidence that the required software and accessories still work. Used robots can hide battery damage, missing controllers, worn actuators, unavailable cloud services or non-transferable licences. Compare the purchase against a current educational humanoid or smart-servo development kit with active software and parts support and budget for inspection, restoration and spares.

If you want help assessing a listing or finding a replacement, contact Anton Robots before placing an order. A serious listing should state whether the unit is new, demo, refurbished, used or supplied as a service, and should disclose missing items or modifications.

Ask for dated operating evidence and confirm that manuals, software, passwords, licences and calibration data can be transferred. Where possible, include a pre-shipment or factory acceptance test covering the functions needed for humanoid assembly, servo programming, walking sequences, remote-controlled demonstrations, and legacy robotics education. If the seller cannot document the package and support path, the apparent saving may not justify the procurement risk.

Can I get a quote for the Hitec ROBONOVA-I? +

Yes. You can get a quote for the Hitec ROBONOVA-I through Anton Robots. A useful quotation should identify the exact product or service status, configuration, included hardware, software, accessories, freight or travel, taxes, warranty, support and delivery or project schedule. It should also reflect the real use case: humanoid assembly, servo programming, walking sequences, remote-controlled demonstrations, and legacy robotics education.

A quote that looks cheaper may omit the equipment, integration or support needed to make the system usable. For legacy products, the quote should state condition and remaining support. For current configured products, it should separate base hardware from options. For rental or service systems, it should define crew, hours and deliverables. Anton Robots can help compare offers on the same basis before a decision is made.

To obtain an accurate quote, provide destination country, organisation type, required delivery date, expected operating hours, environment, task description and any integration constraints. Include photographs, drawings, payload details, camera or sensor models, route information or facility dimensions when relevant. Ask the supplier to list assumptions and exclusions so later changes do not appear as unexpected charges. A good quote should be detailed enough for technical, financial and procurement teams to review the same scope.

What is included when you buy the Hitec ROBONOVA-I? +

A typical Hitec ROBONOVA-I package should be confirmed in writing because contents vary by version, supplier and configuration. Depending on the offer, it may include the metal humanoid frame, 16 HSR-8498HB digital robot servos, MR-C3024 controller, rechargeable NiMH battery, charger, serial programming cable, infrared remote, software and assembly documentation.

Before buying or booking, ask for a clear packing or scope list.

  • the metal humanoid frame
  • 16 HSR-8498HB digital robot servos
  • MR-C3024 controller
  • rechargeable NiMH battery
  • charger
  • serial programming cable
  • infrared remote
  • software and assembly documentation

Also confirm whether replacement robot servos, battery rebuilds, USB-to-serial adapters, spare brackets and screws, alternative controllers, sensors, and legacy software-compatible computers are included or quoted separately. Two offers can use the same product name while representing very different operational packages. You can request an itemised package quote through Anton Robots.

Before acceptance, verify model and serial details, inspect for transport damage, count every accessory and confirm that software, credentials and documentation are usable. Run a basic functional test and record any missing or non-working item immediately.

For configured systems, request an acceptance checklist linked to the intended application. For used or legacy equipment, do not release final payment until the controller, power system and core functions have been demonstrated.

Can the Hitec ROBONOVA-I be shipped internationally? +

A used or remaining-stock Hitec ROBONOVA-I may be shipped internationally, but the buyer must verify seller legitimacy, packaging, battery restrictions, customs, taxes and return rights. Legacy products are particularly vulnerable to damage because original packaging and spare parts may no longer exist.

Ask the seller to remove or secure moving components and document operation before dispatch. Shipping cost can exceed the value of a small robot, and international returns may be impractical. Confirm voltage, charger, radio or wireless compatibility and import rules before purchase.

Anton Robots can help compare landed cost with a current local alternative. Ask for packed dimensions and weight, Incoterms, insurance value, battery documentation and the planned carrier. Confirm whether the supplier will provide export documents, tariff codes, country-of-origin information and any certificates needed for customs or site entry. After arrival, specialised systems may need commissioning, calibration or operator training before use. The delivery plan should therefore cover more than the date the crate reaches the building.

Is the Hitec ROBONOVA-I in stock and how long does delivery take? +

The ROBONOVA-I is no longer part of Hitec’s current product catalogue. Buyers generally find it through used robotics sellers, auctions, collectors or remaining legacy inventory. Lead time should be confirmed before purchase because online pages and historic listings do not guarantee immediate supply. Configuration, accessories, production schedule, software, regional certification, freight and training can all affect delivery.

If the system is needed for a course, inspection, production, event or customer deadline, request written availability and identify the consequences of delay. For legacy products, ask whether the unit is tested and ready to ship. For configured current products, ask when the final integrated package will pass acceptance. You can request current Hitec ROBONOVA-I availability through Anton Robots. Procurement teams should distinguish manufacturing lead time from transport, customs, installation and acceptance time. Ask whether accessories are available on the same schedule and whether partial delivery creates any operational value.

If a fixed project date matters, include a written delivery milestone, communication process for delays and an alternative plan. Do not schedule customers, students, divers, film crew or production downtime until the supplier has confirmed the complete system.

What warranty and support should I check before buying the Hitec ROBONOVA-I? +

Used ROBONOVA-I units normally have no manufacturer warranty. Protection depends on the individual seller, and Hitec support should not be assumed to include discontinued robot-specific parts.

Before committing to the Hitec ROBONOVA-I, ask who provides first-line support, what parts or labour are covered, how faults are diagnosed and where repairs are completed. Confirm coverage for batteries, cables, controllers, software, accessories and damage during transport or operation. Professional users should also check training, spare-parts availability, remote support and expected response time. A cheaper offer with unclear support can produce greater downtime and ownership cost. For legacy hardware, assume no factory coverage unless explicitly documented.

Anton Robots can help compare warranty and support terms as part of the procurement decision. Also ask how software updates are delivered, how long the current product is expected to be supported and whether maintenance can be performed locally. Record model numbers for critical spares and estimate the cost of one operational spare kit. For high-consequence applications, support response, recovery procedures and access to trained technicians can be more important than a small difference in purchase price.

Is the Hitec ROBONOVA-I worth buying? +

The Hitec ROBONOVA-I can still be worth buying for restoration, education, collection or an existing installed base, but it is not the safest default for a new long-term deployment. It is most relevant to robot collectors, makers, robotics clubs, educators maintaining older equipment, and hobbyists interested in classic humanoid kits.

The decision should consider lifecycle status, complete package, operator skills, accessories, software, support and the cost of alternatives. It is not ideal when you need a current supported classroom platform with easy software deployment or when you need autonomous navigation, modern vision, ros 2, or industrial capability.

Buyers should define the task and acceptance criteria before comparing price. A system that is impressive in a demonstration may not be the right operational tool without the correct workflow and support. Use Anton Robots to compare the Hitec ROBONOVA-I with a current educational humanoid or smart-servo development kit with active software and parts support before making a final decision.

How many servos does the Hitec ROBONOVA-I have? +

The Hitec ROBONOVA-I was designed as a 16-servo humanoid robot. Its HSR-8498HB robot servos drive the legs, arms and body to produce walking, turning, standing and performance motions.

When evaluating a used unit, the servo count alone is not enough. Confirm that all sixteen servos are present, correctly addressed and capable of moving under load without gear slip, excessive noise or overheating. Replacement robot-specific servos and matching brackets can be difficult to source because the platform is discontinued. A unit missing only one actuator may still require significant time and cost to restore. Ask the seller to demonstrate a complete walking sequence and provide close photographs of the servo labels, wiring and frame before purchase.

Can the ROBONOVA-I be programmed with RoboBasic? +

Yes. The ROBONOVA-I was built around Hitec’s RoboBasic and RoboScript tools, allowing users to create motion sequences, call stored poses, read controller inputs and build simple behaviours.

This was a strong educational feature when the robot was current, and it remains useful for studying early hobby-humanoid programming. The practical challenge is running the legacy software today. Buyers may need an older Windows environment, the correct serial driver, a reliable USB-to-serial adapter and archived installers.

Before purchasing the robot for education, verify that the software opens, the controller communicates and programs can be downloaded. Modern development expectations such as Python, ROS 2, computer vision and high-level autonomy are not native capabilities of the original system.

Can the ROBONOVA-I walk and perform humanoid motions? +

A correctly assembled and calibrated ROBONOVA-I can walk, turn, stand, pose and perform programmed humanoid motions. Its movements are based on servo positions and carefully tuned sequences rather than modern dynamic whole-body control. Performance depends heavily on battery voltage, servo health, mechanical alignment, foot contact and offset calibration. It works best on level indoor surfaces with supervision. It is not designed for outdoor terrain, autonomous navigation or carrying useful loads.

If a used ROBONOVA-I cannot complete its original demonstration motions, inspect the battery, servo gears, wiring and controller configuration before buying. The ability to power on is not proof that the robot is complete or mechanically healthy.

What controller does the Hitec ROBONOVA-I use? +

The original ROBONOVA-I uses the Hitec MR-C3024 controller. This board coordinates the robot servos, stores motion and program data, connects to the programming computer and provides interfaces for the original remote and supported inputs.

Because the controller is a legacy component, its presence and condition materially affect the value of the robot. Confirm that the board is not corroded, modified or damaged, and check that the programming cable and power connectors are included. A robot body without a functioning controller may be more useful as a parts donor than as a complete educational platform. Buyers planning a modern controller conversion should treat that as a custom engineering project rather than a simple plug-and-play upgrade.

Is the ROBONOVA-I suitable for modern robotics education? +

The ROBONOVA-I can support specialist lessons in robot history, servo sequencing, mechanical assembly and legacy embedded control, but it is not usually the best foundation for a new mainstream robotics curriculum. Current courses often require Python, browser-based tools, ROS 2, modern sensors, active documentation and easy replacement parts. ROBONOVA-I provides a valuable contrast with modern platforms, showing how early hobby humanoids generated movement through manually designed poses and sequences.

It is most suitable where an educator already has working units or specifically wants a restoration and reverse-engineering project. For a scalable classroom deployment, compare current supported education robots before investing in multiple used ROBONOVA-I kits.

What should I inspect before buying a used ROBONOVA-I? +

Inspect the ROBONOVA-I as a complete legacy system. Check all sixteen servos, the MR-C3024 controller, NiMH battery, charger, infrared remote, serial programming cable, metal brackets, screws, wiring and original documentation. Look for bent frame parts, stripped threads, cracked servo cases, battery leakage, corroded connectors and non-standard modifications.

Ask for a video showing power-up, remote control, standing, walking and a downloaded program. Confirm whether the software and drivers are included and whether they run on a computer you can maintain. Used pricing should reflect missing components and restoration risk. A complete tested robot may be valuable to a collector or club; an incomplete robot should be priced as a project or parts unit.

What is a good modern alternative to the ROBONOVA-I? +

A modern alternative should be selected around the learning goal rather than the ROBONOVA-I’s appearance. Buyers interested in smart servos and mechanical construction can compare current ROBOTIS kits and other modular education systems. Buyers who specifically need a programmable humanoid should compare currently supported compact humanoids with accessible SDKs, replacement actuators and documented software.

University teams needing ROS 2, perception or autonomous behaviours require a higher class of research platform. Evaluate total cost, programming environment, spare parts, classroom durability and support. Anton Robots can help compare current educational and humanoid robots so a legacy purchase does not become dependent on unavailable software or components.

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