Hi all
I'm looking for a robotics hardware platform to do some algorithm experimenting
(in the lines of navigation and neural networking). I'm quite skilled in programming
and in the software department, but pretty much a total newbie in robotics or electronics.

Basically what I'm looking for is some kind of prefab basic robot kit or other
'electronics-newbie-friendly solution that I can make communicate by standard serial connection
or something, to an embedded board or laptop running the control program. I (only) need a way
to allow basic operations such as motor control or sensor readouts in real time.

All suggestions or comments appreciated. Thanks.