This document discusses the basics of robotics. It introduces robotics as a field that deals with designing, manufacturing, and operating machines and mechanisms. It outlines Isaac Asimov's three laws of robotics which state that robots must not harm humans, obey human orders unless it conflicts with the first law, and robots must protect themselves without violating the other laws. The document also discusses characteristics of robots like mobility, programmability, sensors, and mechanical capabilities. Examples of robots are provided like Asimo, Kismet, and i-Cub along with trends in robotics like industrial and military applications.