Mindstorms Robotics Invention System 2.0 by Lego
|
Category: Book See more book details and other editions |
|---|
(Click here)
Book Reviews of Mindstorms Robotics Invention System 2.0
Book Review: IR Tower Problems - try this!
Summary: 5 Stars
I work for the company that wrote the software for Mindstorm. The problem with the IR Tower (hardware - not software) is very annoying. The biggest culprit tends to be ambient light. Remember "IR" stands for "infa-red light". We have seen the most difficulties where florescent bulbs are present. Their light signature and flicker rate confuses the IR Tower & unit receiver. This is also true when the product is used near other electronic equipment such as TV's and computer monitors (gulp!!).
The best tactic to incorporate is to block out any ambient light source. Get a dark towel / blanket (anything to block out light) and place it over the units. Then try your upload/download to the brick.
This will usually solve the problem but you must be patient. If it does not work, keep trying different materials until you find one that truly blocks out the light; even cardboard boxes.
Book Review: My husband really digs this thing.
Summary: 5 Stars
I gave this to my husband as a gift and ever since, I have been trailed by this little mars land rover. It's a very 'high tech' guy-gift, and programmable from your computer. I am afraid to buy others for him...especially the one with the camera (EEK!), but that just looks cool, so I might take the dive. We'll just have to make some rules before that purchase...
Seems very durable. He's programmed it to run into things and to back up and find its way out once it hits something, and it has held up well. I am curious to see what else this little Robotic can do. Only time will tell before it brings me a cold drink on a hot day. Side note: It was also very durable when our German Shepherd carried it off after it went to close to the baby! It's still in one piece, believe it or not, but the dog is not so sure about it. He sleeps with one eye open.
Book Review: for engineers of any age (maybe 8 and up)
Summary: 5 Stars
We purchased our first Mindstorms kit the year they came out and now have 6 kits. This is our 5th year coaching a FLL robotics team. Kids can do absolutely amazing things on this device. <br />
<br />
We do not have any problem with compatibility and have various versions of software. Our computers at home and school range from Windows 98 to XP. They all run RIS (the software that comes with it) and Robolab (available to schools and teams). <br />
<br />
If any child or teen thinks they like engineering this is a must have - our University uses it for the freshman intro to engineering course. The engineer in this house (with 25 years EE experience) is also never bored with this kit. There are loads of books to expand your mindstorms world.Book Review: Best toy in a long time
Summary: 5 Stars
Actually bought this for my boyfriend. Hasn't stopped playing with it for a minute, even staying up till 4 am creating new things. While not for the very young, this is the most creative and fun toy I can remember seeing. Infinite possibilities of personal creations... programs and schematics that can be downloaded online... This is perfect for any child, and anyone, who loves to create and explore. Brilliantly educational and fun. I can't express how impressed I am with this set. Very expensive, but very very fun and exciting.
Surprisingly durable, as well, I might add.
In the days here where Legos seem to have gotten away from building with sets with a small number of pieces and large plastic pre-molded frames this set gave me faith in their company again.
Book Review: Yes its does work w/ Windows XP
Summary: 5 Stars
Love this set. More high quality product from Lego. Please note if you are using Windows XP. Bypass the included software install protocol when setting up the infrared transmitter tower and use the "Found new hardware" installation resident in your Windows XP. It will pop up after you plug the device into your USB port. Be sure to have the Mindstorms CD ready when the install shield prompt calls for it. After successful installation, the CD will guide you through the rest of the download, including the transmission of the "firmware" to the RCX unit (this must be done before you can do anything else.) Then go to the Lego Mindstorms website and download the Windows XP patch. It works fine. Be patient and persist, you will get past the XP freeze up.