LEGO MINDSTORMS Robotics Invention System

Reviewed by Carol Welch
Published by LEGO

Age Group: Age 8 and Up, Adults
Type: Thinking Games, Science, More Fun
Price: $230

Description:

Is it a toy?
Is it a computer?
Is it an educational tool?

The answer is - all of the above! An ingenious combination of the popular building toy and computer technology, LEGO MINDSTORMS Robotics Invention System is designed to provide kids with hands-on experience in building, programming and testing their own creations.

The heart of the system is the RCX, which is basically an oversized LEGO brick with a built-in microcomputer. Build your robot directly onto the RCX using LEGO bricks, motors, wheels, gears, sensors and lots of imagination. By programming the RCX with a programming language called RCX Code, robots can perform tasks such as running for a specified time period, turning, reversing direction, beeping and much more. The software is provided, with a complete tutorial, for writing programs in RCX Code on your PC. Once your program is written, download it into the RCX using the Infrared Transmitter that plugs into the PC's serial port. After building and programming steps are completed, it's time to test your robot. A few adjustments may need to be made to either the structure or the program, but that is just part of the inventing process.

The LEGO MINDSTORMS website is a great resource for invention ideas, tips and product updates.

Features:

  • over 700 LEGO pieces (plus you can add your own)
  • RCX - LEGO's programmable microcomputer
  • Infrared transmitter and cable
  • Light and touch sensors
  • Motors and gears
  • Constructopedia™ building guide
  • CD-ROM software
  • Step-by-step on-screen programming tutorial
  • Programopedia™ with programming tips
  • Membership into the LEGO MINDSTORMS Robotics Network™
  • Expansion sets, accessories and duplicate pieces are available for purchase

Technical Aspects:

Before you begin, be sure you have an available 9-pin serial port. If not, you can use the included adapter to connect to a 25-pin port. Also, be sure you have 1 9Volt and 6 AA (1.5V) batteries - these are not included. The user guide provides an excellent overview of the system. It is a great place to start if you feel a bit overwhelmed by a box full of LEGO pieces, sensors, wires and a microcomputer. When you are ready to begin your adventure, just load the software and follow the Guided Activities. By following the on-screen directions and consulting the Constructopedia™ for building instructions, you will soon be testing your very own robot.

The software loaded and ran without problems on a Celeron 400 with 32MB RAM and Windows 98. The interface is excellent, providing detailed instructions in simple steps that can be easily paused, reviewed or skipped past. Instructions are given verbally along with visual cues. A hearing-impaired child would require the assistance of an interpreter during the Guided Activities section, but could then program and build on his/her own.

RCX Code is a very simple language, enabling users to "build" programs by stacking "blocks" of programming commands. This visual approach is an excellent way to teach children the basics of computer programming.

Reports and Conclusions:

This product was tested by my 8-year-old son. Although he is still a few years shy of the minimum recommended age of 12, he is an experienced LEGO builder, possesses adequate computer skills and has a knack for problem solving. Armed with these attributes, he tackled this project fearlessly and with great enthusiasm - completing the Guided Activities in about 3 hours. He grasped the basics of the RCX Code programming language quicker than either his dad or myself, and programmed his first solo project "Robo 2" completely on his own. We felt like NASA technicians as the whole family gathered for Robo 2's test run. My son's program ran flawlessly, but Robo 2 did require a few mechanical adjustments that were completed with Dad's help. On the third test run, Robo 2 performed perfectly! With touch sensors mounted on each end, the little robot ran back and forth between a filing cabinet and a box, reversing direction at each touch. After a few programming alterations, Robo 2 was soon beeping each time he changed direction!

This is the most innovative, exciting "toy" I have seen during my years as a parent! With this astounding creation, LEGO is bringing our children into the 21st century by providing a unique learning opportunity for aspiring engineers, technicians, programmers and inventors. Personally, I think it should be basic equipment for Gifted and Talented programs in schools.

With the availability of expansion sets and accessories, the potential for replay is endless. Don't let the price tag dissuade you. Consider this system as an educational investment and family entertainment (possibly more so than comparably priced console systems). This robotics system can easily provide ever-increasing challenges and projects that will grow with a child all the way into college and beyond. In fact, I have heard that this product is quite popular on college campuses. Regardless of age or gender, this product appeals to anyone who is creative, analytical and/or mechanically inclined. If you know someone who fits this description, LEGO MINDSTORMS™ Robotics Invention System could well be the ultimate gift.




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