Getting Started with ROS 2

🚀 Introduction

Robotics is evolving fast — and so is the software that powers it. One of the most important tools in the robotics world is ROS (Robot Operating System). If you're serious about building intelligent robots, it's time to explore ROS2, the next-generation framework for robot development.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through:

• What ROS2 is

• Why it matters

• Key differences between ROS and ROS2

• How to get started with ROS2 (even if you're a student or hobbyist)

🤖 What is ROS2?

ROS 2 (Robot Operating System 2) is an open-source framework that helps developers build modular, scalable, and real-time robotic applications. It's not an operating system in the traditional sense, but a middleware platform that provides tools, libraries, and conventions to build complex robots efficiently.

Think of ROS 2 as the "Android for Robots" — it handles communication between sensors, motors, algorithms, and user interfaces so you can focus on innovation, not plumbing.

🔍 Why ROS2 Over ROS1?

ROS1 was revolutionary, but it had limitations in real-time processing, security, and multi-robot systems. ROS2 fixes those and brings modern features like:

• Real-time capabilities

• Multi-robot communication support

• Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux, MacOS)

• Improved security & reliability

• Better support for embedded systems and industrial robots

🧰 ROS2 Features that You’ll Love

• DDS (Data Distribution Service) for robust, low-latency messaging

• Launch system for better node control

• Component-based development (reusable modules)

• Support for microcontrollers via micro-ROS

• Simulation tools like Gazebo and RViz2

👨‍💻 How to Get Started with ROS 2 (Step-by-Step)

  1. Install ROS2

     Visit https://docs.ros.org/en/jazzy/Installation.html for instructions based on your OS (Ubuntu is recommended).

  2. Learn ROS2 Basics

     Start with beginner tutorials:

• Creating nodes and topics

• Understanding publishers/subscribers

• Writing your first Python or C++ ROS2 package

  3. Try Simulation

      Install Gazebo and control a virtual robot. It's a great way to learn without hardware.

  4. Connect with Hardware (Optional)

      Test with an Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or Jetson Nano if you have one.

  5. Join the Community

      Explore ROS Discourse, GitHub repos, and forums. You’re never alone!

🎯 Who Should Learn ROS2?

• Engineering students working on robotics projects

• Educators setting up robotics labs

• Makers & DIYers looking to build intelligent robots

• Startups and researchers developing industrial or service robots

📚 What’s Next?

At PIDPEN Robotics Lab, we’re building a roadmap to help students learn ROS2 step-by-step — through kits, tutorials, and practical workshops. Want to be part of the future of robotics?

💬 Final Thoughts

ROS2 is the future of robotics software — powerful, flexible, and ready for real-world robots. Whether you're a student, educator, or tech enthusiast, learning ROS2 now will put you ahead in one of the fastest-growing tech fields.

👉 Stay tuned for our upcoming ROS2 Bootcamp!!