{"product_id":"butterfly-amicus-start-table-tennis-robot","title":"Butterfly Amicus Start Ping Pong Robot - ASTART","description":"\u003ch2\u003eButterfly Amicus Start Ping Pong Robot - ASTART\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Attach Butterfly Amicus Start table tennis robot to your ping pong table and train, practice, or play anytime you want for as long as you want. Easily and quickly attach to or remove from any standard table tennis table. Lightweight and portable. Includes a free high quality Carry Bag for easy transport or storage. Also comes with 120 Butterfly Easy Balls and tech support from the Robot Guru.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIts special 3-wheel design delivers any spin type without rotating the head. And its unique guide plate enables nearly instant changes to left\/right placement and up\/down trajectory. The only robot you can adjust the head height. Accepts both 40 \u0026amp; 40+ balls. Made in Hungary from highest quality materials.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eStart is the ideal choice for those wanting a clean straightforward interface without a lot of options. Select the desired spin, speed, trajectory, and placement for shot 1. Then add up to 5 more shots, changing placement as desired. Randomize shots so you don't know where the ball will be thrown next or enlarge the landing spot for more human-like throws. Then set the ball frequency to a comfortable (or challenging!) pace.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRobots are a great way to rapidly accelerate your development. Fantastic training aid to assure high quality shots, even when a coach or better player is unavailable. Transform a room in your home into a professional training space available anytime. This top-notch practice trainer never tires and is always ready to challenge you. Avoid low quality shots and wasted time when 2 novices practice. Hit 10 times (or more) shots in the same time as normal practice between 2 players to quickly build stroke muscle memory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple interface\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUp to 6 balls per drill, all balls with same spin, speed, \u0026amp; trajectory\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBall frequency of up to 100 balls per minute\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeft-right Placement can change for each ball in a drill.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConnected with help of an easy and secure thin cable.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOptional: Key-fob-like remote control (small, lightweight and easy to fit in pocket).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e Included\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree access to FETHOMANIA!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRobot \u0026amp; Control Panel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBall Collection Net\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUniversal power supply, cables, \u0026amp; US Adapter Plug\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrinted Owner's Manual in English, German, \u0026amp; French\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccessory Packet with spare parts \u0026amp; tools\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFREE 120 Butterfly Training Balls\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFREE Carry Bag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-year warranty \u0026amp; 5-year parts availability guarantee\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFREE Tech Support from the â€˜Robot Guruâ€™, Larry Thoman (30+ years of experience with table tennis robots, author of 7 different ownerâ€™s manuals \u0026amp; holder of 3 table tennis robot patents)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eWhat our Experts Think\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"raaqqh\" data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"291\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"86\"\u003eEntry-level model in Butterfly’s premium robot lineup\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"86\" data-end=\"89\"\u003eThe Butterfly Amicus Start (ASTART) is the \u003cstrong data-start=\"134\" data-end=\"186\"\u003esimplified version of the Amicus training system\u003c\/strong\u003e, designed to bring structured robot training to beginners, clubs, and home users at a lower entry point.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"13b2xh2\" data-start=\"293\" data-end=\"596\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"295\" data-end=\"344\"\u003eSame 3-wheel spin technology as higher models\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"344\" data-end=\"347\"\u003eExperts highlight that it uses the \u003cstrong data-start=\"384\" data-end=\"417\"\u003esignature 3-wheel head system\u003c\/strong\u003e, allowing realistic generation of \u003cstrong data-start=\"452\" data-end=\"496\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003etopspin, backspin, sidespin, and no-spin\u003c\/strong\u003e without rotating the head—mirroring advanced Amicus robots. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"an7t3j\" data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"864\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"600\" data-end=\"641\"\u003eBasic but effective drill programming\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"641\" data-end=\"644\"\u003eSupports \u003cstrong data-start=\"655\" data-end=\"687\"\u003eup to 6-ball drill sequences\u003c\/strong\u003e, where users can set spin, speed, and placement per drill, making it useful for \u003cstrong data-start=\"768\" data-end=\"823\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003efundamental stroke training and repetition practice\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"c0xkir\" data-start=\"866\" data-end=\"1085\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"868\" data-end=\"911\"\u003eHigh training speed for repetition work\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"911\" data-end=\"914\"\u003eCapable of feeding up to \u003cstrong data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"966\"\u003e~100 balls per minute\u003c\/strong\u003e, enabling high-rep practice for footwork, consistency, and timing development. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"ol0wtn\" data-start=\"1087\" data-end=\"1324\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1089\" data-end=\"1122\"\u003ePortable, club-friendly setup\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1122\" data-end=\"1125\"\u003eDesigned to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1175\"\u003eattach easily to standard tables\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a lightweight build and included carry bag for transport between home, club, or training environments. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1yl0hl7\" data-start=\"1326\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1328\" data-end=\"1374\"\u003eSimplified control system (key limitation)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1374\" data-end=\"1377\"\u003eExperts note the trade-off: the Start model \u003cstrong data-start=\"1423\" data-end=\"1488\"\u003edoes not support advanced stored drills or deep customization\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it less suitable for high-level tactical training compared to Expert or Prime models.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"538p90\" data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1761\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1627\"\u003eBest suited for learning fundamentals\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1627\" data-end=\"1630\"\u003eIdeal for players who want to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1662\" data-end=\"1721\"\u003ebuild consistency, footwork, and basic spin recognition\u003c\/strong\u003e, rather than advanced match simulation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eQ\u0026amp;A\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-(--header-height)\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"593f35d6-c1ec-419b-9913-3467a08478bf\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-39\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"user\"\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:762ba5b6-8f35-452d-bff4-38d208b3e4da-19\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-40\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"9ee64573-da21-4072-914a-df52ff5b7b3e\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"298\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"67\"\u003eQ: What is the Butterfly Amicus Start Ping Pong Robot (ASTART)?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"67\" data-end=\"70\"\u003eA: An entry-level professional table tennis training robot by Butterfly designed for solo practice, offering realistic spin, speed, and placement control for beginners to advanced players. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"554\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"333\"\u003eQ: What are its key features?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"336\"\u003eA: It uses a \u003cstrong data-start=\"349\" data-end=\"372\"\u003e3-wheel head system\u003c\/strong\u003e that can generate all spin types (topspin, backspin, sidespin, no-spin), plus adjustable ball placement and trajectory for structured drills. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"556\" data-end=\"859\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"556\" data-end=\"607\"\u003eQ: How advanced is it compared to other robots?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"607\" data-end=\"610\"\u003eA: It is the \u003cstrong data-start=\"623\" data-end=\"658\"\u003ebase model in the Amicus series\u003c\/strong\u003e, offering simpler controls and fewer programming options than Expert or Prime models, focusing on straightforward drill creation rather than complex automation. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"1109\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"904\"\u003eQ: What training modes does it support?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"904\" data-end=\"907\"\u003eA: It allows custom drills (up to multiple-ball sequences), random placement mode, and adjustable frequency to simulate realistic rallies and improve consistency. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1111\" data-end=\"1322\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1111\" data-end=\"1146\"\u003eQ: How fast can it shoot balls?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1146\" data-end=\"1149\"\u003eA: It can deliver up to around \u003cstrong data-start=\"1180\" data-end=\"1204\"\u003e100 balls per minute\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it suitable for both technique training and high-repetition practice. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1552\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1324\" data-end=\"1365\"\u003eQ: Is it portable and easy to set up?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1365\" data-end=\"1368\"\u003eA: Yes. It mounts quickly on any standard table, is lightweight, and includes a carry bag and ball collection system for easy setup and storage. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1554\" data-end=\"1784\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1554\" data-end=\"1580\"\u003eQ: Who is it best for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1580\" data-end=\"1583\"\u003eA: Ideal for beginners, club players, and improving intermediates who want structured solo training without the complexity or cost of higher-end robotic systems. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1786\" data-end=\"1995\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1786\" data-end=\"1807\"\u003eQ: Why choose it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1807\" data-end=\"1810\"\u003eA: It delivers \u003cstrong data-start=\"1825\" data-end=\"1901\"\u003erealistic spin variety, reliable repetition training, and easy usability\u003c\/strong\u003e, making it one of the most accessible serious training robots in the Butterfly Amicus lineup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eMaintenance Tips\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1qwaqj4\" data-start=\"203\" data-end=\"375\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"205\" data-end=\"226\"\u003eKeep balls clean:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use clean, dust-free training balls only; wash new balls before use to prevent internal jams and wheel wear. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"f2gr2l\" data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"534\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"378\" data-end=\"400\"\u003ePrevent ball jams:\u003c\/strong\u003e Remove hair, dust, or broken balls from the net and feed system regularly to avoid blockages. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"mpydqp\" data-start=\"535\" data-end=\"708\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"537\" data-end=\"564\"\u003eClean wheels carefully:\u003c\/strong\u003e Do NOT use chemicals on throwing wheels—only dry or lightly damp cloth to preserve the special coating. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"3ala4d\" data-start=\"709\" data-end=\"841\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"711\" data-end=\"736\"\u003eCheck feeding system:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inspect ball channel and guide plate to ensure smooth delivery and consistent spin\/placement accuracy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"zfb5vf\" data-start=\"842\" data-end=\"965\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"844\" data-end=\"872\"\u003eSecure power connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Always unplug before maintenance and ensure cables are firmly seated for stable operation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"crefjk\" data-start=\"966\" data-end=\"1079\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"968\" data-end=\"988\"\u003eIndoor use only:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep in a clean, dry environment—avoid humidity, dust-heavy areas, and outdoor exposure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"152dii5\" data-start=\"1080\" data-end=\"1239\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1082\" data-end=\"1105\"\u003eRegular inspection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Check screws, head alignment, and deflector positioning to maintain accurate ball trajectory. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1fnxexu\" data-start=\"1240\" data-end=\"1356\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1242\" data-end=\"1259\"\u003eStorage care:\u003c\/strong\u003e Store in its carry bag when not in use to protect motors, electronics, and plastic components.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Butterfly","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45602157068479,"sku":"ASTART","price":944.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/5703\/0079\/files\/Butterfly.ASTART-5.jpg?v=1777458500","url":"https:\/\/www.mybackyardzone.com\/products\/butterfly-amicus-start-table-tennis-robot","provider":"Your Outdoor Setup Starts Here","version":"1.0","type":"link"}