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--- kit:faq [2023/11/29 05:06] – admin
+++ kit:faq [2025/06/22 16:57] (current) – external edit 127.0.0.1
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-**Q: Can the CrowBox accept X/Y/Z instead of coins?**
+**Q:** Can the CrowBox accept items other than coins?
-A: The current design demands flat, round, metal objects. (Coins, washers, etc.) They have to roll into the machine, and they have to conduct electricity (be metal) in order to trip the coin sensor. That said, the design is open source, so you could potentially alter it to detect other things!
+A: The current design requires flat, round, metal objects like coins or washers. These items need to roll into the machine and conduct electricity to trigger the coin sensor. However, since the design is open source, you could potentially modify it to detect different types of items.
-**Q: How long does it take to train corvids to make me rich?**
+**Q:** Can I modify the CrowBox to accept other items like trash, bottle caps, or cigarette butts?
-A: That's not really the goal of the project, so probably a very long time. We're trying to figure out how to autonomously train corvids in order to change how people think about species that live near human beings, and to learn as much about them as we can in the process!
+A: While modification is possible due to the open-source nature of the project, it would require significant redesign, potentially including adding new sensors. Currently, there are no readily available modifications for accepting these specific items, but innovation is encouraged!
-**Q: What does the CrowBox cost?**
+**Q:** How long does it take to train corvids to bring items?
-A: We've tried to keep the cost of all materials as low as possible. Depending on where you source your materials, how expensive shipping is, and if you're able to get bulk materials in smaller lots, it should cost between $2-300
+A: Training corvids isn't primarily aimed at quickly acquiring items or riches; the project focuses on researching autonomous training methods, learning about corvid behavior, and changing perceptions about urban wildlife. Therefore, training can take a very long time, and success varies widely depending on factors like location and individual birds.
-**Q: How long does it take to assemble the CrowBox?**
+**Q:** What is the cost to build a CrowBox?
-A: This depends a lot on your experience and materials. We estimate about ten hours of work (split over a few days to allow parts to dry, etc.)
+A: The estimated cost for materials ranges from $200 to $300+. This price can vary based on where you source parts, shipping costs, whether you buy in bulk, and any potential upgrades like cameras, mounts, battery, or solar panels. Note that material prices have been significantly affected by inflation recently.
-**Q: Is the CrowBox too complex for beginners to build?**
+**Q:** How long does it take to assemble the CrowBox?
-A: Not at all. It's a manageable project with comprehensive support available from our community ([[https://www.youtube.com/@crowboxofficial3322|YouTube Channel]]) and detailed YouTube Build videos ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]])
-**Q: What's the cost of building a CrowBox?**
+A: Assembly time is estimated to be between 10 and 20 hours, depending on your experience and skill level. The work will need to be spread across several days to allow components like glue or paint to dry properly.
-A: Costs range from $200-300+, subject to materials, shipping, and potential upgrades like cameras, mounts, battery, or solar panels. Note that prices have been greatly influenced by inflation recently.
-**Q: How much time is needed to assemble the CrowBox?**
+**Q:** Is the CrowBox too complex for beginners to build?
-A: Assembly time is estimated at 10-20 hours, depending on your skill level. You’ll also have to spread across several days to allow for drying times.
-**Q: Can I buy a pre-built CrowBox or kit?**
+A: Not at all. It's designed as a manageable project, even for beginners. Comprehensive support is available through the community Google Group ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]) and detailed build videos on YouTube ([[https://www.youtube.com/@crowboxofficial3322|YouTube Channel]]).
-A: Currently, there are no pre-built options for sale. This open-source project is designed for DIY enthusiasts, with extensive documentation provided to support home construction.
-**Q: Is it feasible to place bulk orders for parts?**
+**Q:** Can I buy a pre-built CrowBox or kit?
-A: Yes, bulk orders can reduce costs. However, follow-ups in the community are rare. For bulk order discussions, visit our Google group ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]). Ponoko created links for individual orders that can easily be increased to larger numbers here ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:ponoko_guide|Ponoko Guide]]).
-**Q: Is anyone willing to build a CrowBox for me?**
+A: Currently, there are no pre-built CrowBoxes or complete kits available for sale. The project is intended for DIY enthusiasts, supported by extensive documentation for home construction.
-A: Due to long build times, this is uncommon. You can always reach out to the community to inquire.
-**Q: Will someone sell or give me their CrowBox for research purposes?**
+**Q:** Is it feasible to place bulk orders for parts?
-A: The community has been collaborative in the past, so it's worth asking in our Google group ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]).
-**Q: Do people have spare parts from their builds?**
+A: Yes, ordering parts in bulk can potentially reduce costs, although community follow-ups on successful bulk orders are rare. Discussions about bulk orders can be initiated in the Google group ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]). Ponoko also provides links for individual orders that can be scaled up ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:ponoko_guide|Ponoko Guide]]).
-A: Yes, surplus parts are common, because many items are sold in packs such as switches, wires, silicon bands, etc. Consider making a request on the Google group.
-**Q: Can alternative materials be used instead of acrylic?**
+**Q:** Is anyone willing to build a CrowBox for me?
-A: While other materials like wood, fluted polypropylene sheets, corrugated plastic, & sintra (Expanded PVC) have been discussed, the design files are optimized for 3mm thick acrylic.
-**Q: Is 3D printing an option for the CrowBox?**
+A: Finding someone to build a CrowBox for you is uncommon due to the significant time investment required. However, you can always ask within the community Google group.
-A: Yes, but no official 3D files are provided. You'd need to convert the existing geometry files (.dxf) to a suitable format for 3D printing (.stl/.3mf). Geometry files available here ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:geometry_files|Geometry Files]]), BOM here ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:crowbox2_v20_bom|BOM]]).
-**Q: Can the CrowBox accept X/Y/Z instead of coins?**
+**Q:** Will someone sell or give me their CrowBox for research purposes?
-A: The current design demands flat, round, metal objects. (Coins, washers, etc.) They have to roll into the machine, and they have to conduct electricity (be metal) in order to trip the coin sensor. That said, the design is open source, so you could potentially alter it to detect other things!
-**Q: Can I modify the CrowBox to accept other items like trash, bottle caps, cigarette butts?**
+A: The community has shown collaboration in the past. It's worthwhile posting a request in the Google group ([[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]) if you need a unit for research.
-A: While possible, it would require significant redesign, such as adding new sensors. There are no ready-made modifications currently available. It's open source, though, so feel free to innovate!
-**Q: Can I monitor or control the CrowBox remotely via WIFI?**
+**Q:** Do people have spare parts from their builds?
-A: The base design uses an Arduino UNO R3, but some have integrated WIFI capabilities with boards like ESP32. For an example, see: [[https://github.com/ahWorkShop/HA_Crowbox|GitHub Repository]].
-**Q: Can the CrowBox be battery powered?**
+A: Yes, builders often have surplus parts because many components (like switches, wires, silicon bands) are sold in packs. You can ask in the Google group if anyone has specific spare parts they are willing to share or sell.
-A: Yes, batteries with an "Always On" feature are recommended, such as those from Voltaic Systems. The CrowBox's Arduino draws about 47mA when idle. More on battery power can be found at the following links: [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:portable_power|Portable Power]], [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:mod_battery_power|Battery Power]], and a YouTube video ([[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq9xL0tjDSg|CrowBox Upgrade - Power a CrowBox with a USB power bank]]).
-**Q: What food should be used as a reward?**
+**Q:** Can alternative materials be used instead of acrylic?
-A: A combination of Roasted, unsalted peanuts with Baked Cheetos (or similar baked cheese snack) are recommended, but a variety of foods like cheese snacks, other nuts, and pet kibble can also work.
+A: While materials like wood, fluted polypropylene, corrugated plastic, and Sintra (Expanded PVC) have been discussed, the provided design files are specifically optimized for 3mm thick acrylic. Using other materials may require adjustments to the design.
+**Q:** Is 3D printing an option for the CrowBox?
+A: Yes, 3D printing is an option, but there are no official 3D model files (.stl/.3mf) provided. You would need to convert the existing 2D geometry files (.dxf), available here ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:geometry_files|Geometry Files]]), into a suitable 3D format. The Bill of Materials (BOM) is available here ([[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:crowbox2_v20_bom|BOM]]).
+**Q:** Can I monitor or control the CrowBox remotely via WIFI?
+A: The standard design uses an Arduino UNO R3 without built-in WIFI. However, some users have successfully integrated WIFI capabilities using alternative boards like the ESP32. An example project can be found here: [[https://github.com/ahWorkShop/HA_Crowbox|GitHub Repository]].
+**Q:** Can the CrowBox be battery powered?
+A: Yes, the CrowBox can be powered by batteries. It's recommended to use batteries with an "Always On" feature (like those from Voltaic Systems) because the Arduino draws a small amount of power (~47mA) even when idle. More details can be found here: [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:portable_power|Portable Power]], [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:mod_battery_power|Battery Power]], and in this YouTube video ([[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq9xL0tjDSg|CrowBox Upgrade - Power a CrowBox with a USB power bank]]).
+**Q:** What food should be used as a reward?
+A: A mix of roasted, unsalted peanuts and baked cheese snacks (like Cheetos) is recommended. However, corvids enjoy a variety of foods, including:
   * **Favorite Foods:**
-    * Nuts, namely peanuts, walnuts, and almonds
+    * Nuts (peanuts, walnuts, almonds)
-    * Eggs (raw, boiled, scrambled…it doesn’t matter to a crow!)
+    * Eggs (raw, boiled, or scrambled)
-    * Meat scraps like chicken and fish
+    * Meat scraps (chicken, fish)
-    * Dry cat and dog kibble/pellet food (yes, really!)
+    * Dry cat or dog kibble
+  * Having a nearby water source is also beneficial. See more on site preparation: [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:site_preparation|Site Preparation]]
-  * It's beneficial to have a nearby water source. For more on site preparation: [[https://thecrowbox.com/wiki/doku.php?id=kit:site_preparation|Site Preparation]]
+**Q:** Can I control the amount of food dispensed?
-**Q: Can I control the food dispensed?**
+A: Not precisely. The current system opens a dispensing window for about 15 seconds, allowing the bird to take what it can during that time. There is no mechanism to control the exact quantity dispensed per interaction.
-A: Not really. The system allows birds to take what they can during a 15-second window, with no precise control over quantity.
-**Q: How long will it take to train corvids to bring items?**
+**Q:** Does this system work for birds other than corvids?
-A: That's not really the goal of the project, so probably a very long time. We're trying to figure out how to autonomously train corvids in order to change how people think about species that live near human beings, and to learn as much about them as we can in the process! Training success varies widely.
-**Q: Does this system work for birds other than corvids?**
+A: The CrowBox is specifically designed for corvids (crows, ravens, magpies, jays, etc.) due to their known intelligence and problem-solving skills.
-A: The CrowBox is designed primarily for Corvids, known for their problem-solving abilities. It may not be suitable for other bird species without modification. Here's a breakdown:
   * **Corvids:** Crows, Ravens, Jackdaws, Rooks, Jays, Magpies - generally successful.
-  * **Other Birds:** Such as Seagulls and Starlings - not observed depositing items.
+  * **Other Birds:** Species like Seagulls and Starlings have not been observed successfully using the device to deposit items.
-  * **Parrots:** Cockatoos have solved similar puzzles but haven't been tested with the CrowBox. See their problem-solving in action: [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5YyTHyaNpo|YouTube Video]]
+  * **Parrots:** While intelligent (e.g., Cockatoos have solved similar puzzles - see [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5YyTHyaNpo|YouTube Video]]), they haven't been specifically tested with the CrowBox. Modification might be needed for non-corvid species.
-**Q: Does this really work?**
+**Q:** Does this really work? (Does the CrowBox guarantee success?)
-A: Success varies. Factors like location and the specific corvid species play significant roles. Crows, known for their caution, may require time to adapt to the CrowBox. The project is more about learning and engagement with wildlife than guaranteed outcomes.
-**Q: Can crow calls be used?**
+A: Success with the CrowBox is not guaranteed and can vary significantly. Factors influencing success include your location, the specific corvid species present, and their individual temperaments (e.g., crows can be very cautious). The project is best viewed as an experiment in learning about and engaging with local wildlife, rather than a tool with guaranteed results.
-A: Yes, but incorrect use may scare the crows away. It's important to use caution if integrating crow calls.
-**Q: Can the CrowBox be used for research or school projects?**
+**Q:** Can crow calls be used with the CrowBox?
-A: Absolutely. It has been utilized for educational purposes and to explore machine learning/AI, although such enhancements are typically not shared back to the community, unfortunately.
-**Q: Does the CrowBox incorporate machine learning or AI?**
+A: Yes, crow calls can potentially be integrated, but caution is advised. Using calls incorrectly might scare crows away rather than attract them.
-A: Currently, there is no official implementation of machine learning or AI. However, individuals may have experimented with these technologies. This an ideal area to explore and expand upon.
+**Q:** Can the CrowBox be used for research or school projects?
+A: Absolutely. The CrowBox has been used in educational settings and as a platform for exploring related fields like machine learning or AI, although enhancements developed for specific projects are often not shared back with the main open-source community.
+**Q:** Does the CrowBox incorporate machine learning or AI?
+A: The official CrowBox design does not include machine learning or AI features. However, individuals are free to experiment with integrating these technologies, making it an interesting area for further development.
+**Q:** Is the CrowBox community active on other platforms besides the Google Group?
-**Q: Is this community on other platforms?**
 A: No. Currently, there is only the google group: [[http://groups.google.com/group/CrowBoxKit|Google Group]]. There is no official GitHub repo or discord….. yet.
-**Q: Where can I share my build and usage experiences?**
+**Q:** Where can I share my build and usage experiences?
 A: Share your pictures and videos in the Google group.
-**Q: Are there other versions of the CrowBox available?**
+**Q:** Are there other versions of the CrowBox available?
 A: Yes, since its inception in 2008, there have been various versions and revisions. The project is on Version 2, with multiple updates to the design files (revision 3). Here is a list of known, alternate versions and similar projects:
   * **The CrowBox**, Joshua Klein, USA, 2008, [[http://www.thecrowbox.com|The CrowBox Website]]
@@ Line 109: / Line 116: @@
   * **Birds for Change**, France, 2021, (No direct link provided)
   * **CrowKit**, Steve Joy, Date Unknown, [[https://www.youtube.com/@4STEVEJOY34/videos|YouTube Channel]]
-  * **Vending Machine for Birds**, BrittneeAlexus Design, Date Unknown, [[http://brittneealexus.com/shop/ols/products/crow-box-kit|Vending Machine for Birds]]
   * **Nerdfeeder**, Stephen Chasey, Date Unknown, [[https://hackaday.io/project/184754-vending-machine-for-birds|Hackaday Project]] AND [[https://www.instructables.com/Nerdfeeder/|Instructables Project]]
+//Special thanks to Michael Kapp for compiling these!!//