Lego Mindstorms NXT would make a good gift for kids and “adult” geeks as well. You not only program your robot but design and build it from scratch as well. Including sensors for touch, sound, light and ultrasonic the NXT includes Bluetooth support and a 32-bit processor which is highly evolved from Lego’s last offering.
The software to control and program the robots has a simple drag-and-drop interface using pre-programmed objects that you pull from a palette and snap to other objects. Each object is configurable. For example, the Sound object brings up a sub-window that allows you to choose between a tone and a list of sound files, set the volume, set duration, and so on. Little Lego bricks between the objects reinforce the idea that building a NXT program is like building a Lego model.
Geeks even get an SDK!
The next generation of robots! Create the smartest, strongest and most advanced LEGO® robot ever, in as few as 30 minutes! The new NXT Intelligent Brick, your robot’s “brain,” features a powerful 32-bit microprocessor and more memory, plus support for USB 2.0, Bluetooth and more! A highly versatile palette of LEGO TECHNIC® elements combines with state-of-the-art ultrasonic, sound, light and touch sensors in the next generation of intuitive robotics. With included Quick-Start guide, easy-to-use software and step-by-step building instructions, beginners and experts alike can create humanoid, vehicle and animal robots that obey every command! Improved light sensors can detect different colors and intensities, while the new sound sensor enables robots to respond to sound patterns and tones. Robots can really “feel” with improved touch sensors, while ultrasonic “eyes” measure distance and movement. Programming software is now available for both PC and Macintosh, plus with Bluetooth support, you can even command your robot from your mobile phone! LEGO® MINDSTORMS® NXT Includes: All-new NXT Intelligent Brick with 32-bit microprocessor, more memory and FLASH 3 Interactive Servo motors feature built-in rotation sensors to align speed for precise control New sound sensor reacts to sound commands, patterns and tones New ultrasonic visual sensor responds to movement Improved touch sensor reacts to touch and release Improved light sensor detects different colors and light intensities 519 specially selected LEGO TECHNIC elements for sturdy and durable building and improved functionality and movement 4 input ports, 3 output ports and 7 6-wire cords Matrix display Real sound speaker USB 2.0 and Bluetooth support Easy-to-use PC and Mac compatible interface Intuitive, icon-based drag-and-drop program “building” environment 6 AA batteries required (not included).
Price: $249.99
(Please note prices are subject to change and the listed price is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of posting)
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