Robots that run by themselves without human control require

• A. A microcontroller and autonomous programming
• B. A computer and wireless control
• C. Sensors only
• D. Human operator at all times

Answer: (A)

For a robot to run on its own, it needs onboard processing and software that can decide actions without human input. A microcontroller provides that onboard brain, running autonomous programming that reads sensors, makes decisions, and sends commands to motors and actuators. With this setup, the robot can operate independently, responding to its environment in real time.

Other options don’t fit because a computer with wireless control implies external input and potential remote operation rather than true autonomy; sensors alone provide data but no decisions or actions; and a human operator at all times means the robot isn’t autonomous.