cheap toy shop.com

LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 (8547)

2010-01-23T18:52:00.000-08:00

: LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 (8547)

LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0 (8547)
From LEGO

Product Description

New! Upgraded and Stronger than ever!

LEGO Mindstorms NXT is back and better than ever: new models, more customizable programming and all-new technologies! Mindstorms NXT 2.0 combines the versality of the LEGO building system with all-new technologies, an intelligent microcomputer brick and intuitive drag-and-drop programming software. The new 2.0 toolkit features everything you need to create your first robot in 30 minutes and then thousands of other robotics inventions that do what you want!

The intelligent NXT LEGO brick features 32-bit microprocessor, a large matrix display, 4 input and 3 output ports, and Bluetooth and USB communication link

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #86 in Toys & Games

Brand: LEGO

Model: 4544091

Dimensions: 14.88" h x 3.70" w x 18.90" l, 4.45 pounds

Features

The intelligent NXT Lego brick features 32-bit microprocessor, a large matrix display, 4 input and 3 output ports, and Bluetooth and USB communication link; batteries not included

Three interactive servo motors; four sensors (Ultrasonic Sensor, 2 Touch Sensors and the all-new Color Sensor)

Color Sensor has triple functionality: Distinguishes colors and light settings, and functions as a lamp

Easy-to-use software (PC and Mac) with icon-based drag-and-drop programming and 16 fun building and programming challenges; building instructions for 4 new amazing robots

612 pieces

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review
Take LEGO to the next level with MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0. Combining the versatility of the LEGO building system with a microcomputer brick and intuitive programming software, this building kit enables you to construct robots that see, speak, feel, and move. Designed for ages 10 and up, the 2.0 robotics tool set features everything you need to create and program your first robot in approximately one hour. After that, you can create an endless lineup of robots that do what you want--if you can dream it, you can build it.

MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0

Ages:

Pieces:

Requires:

What We Think

Fun factor:
Durability:
Ease of assembly:
Educational factor:
Novelty factor:

The Good: Brings LEGO to life.

The Challenging: Booklet only includes instructions for one basic robot.

In a Nutshell: Everything you need to build and program robots -- jump starts inventive play.

With MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0, you can construct robots that see, speak, feel, and move. View larger.

Use the included software to program your robot and watch it come to life. View larger.

Build, Program, Go
Creating a MINDSTORMS robot is challenging -- but not too difficult -- with an illustrated step-by-step booklet and software showing the way. The booklet gives you instructions for building a basic "Quick Start" robot only, which is an easy introduction to the MINDSTORMS experience. This robot took our two adult testers about 30 minutes to build and 30 minutes to program. After that, they spent a lot of time just playing with their creation and testing its abilities.

Once you master the basics of MINDSTORMS, you'll need to use the included software to get instructions for more advanced creations. You can also use the MINDSTORMS web site to find instructions for many other robots, or you can create robots on your own. No matter what you choose to create, the principles are the same: just build the robot using the LEGO elements in the kit, and program it on your computer using the software. Then watch your robot come alive.

NXT Technology Brings LEGO to Life
MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0 features the latest in robotic technology: an advanced programmable microcontroller, Interactive Servo Motors, smart sensors, icon-based drag-and-drop programming software, interactive challenges, and wireless Blue tooth and USB connections -- all the smart technologies you need to create your custom robot.

First, the brain of the MINDSTORMS robot is NXT, an intelligent, computer-controlled LEGO brick that features a 32-bit microprocessor, a large matrix display, input and output ports, and a speaker.

Second, three Interactive Servo Motors give you precise control over the robot and ensure that the robot moves with precision -- the built-in rotation sensor can measure one-degree steps.

Third, there are four robotic sensors. The first is the Ultrasonic Sensor, one of two sensors that gives your robot vision. You can use it to make your robot avoid obstacles, sense and measure distance, and detect movement.

And fourth of all, two Touch Sensors give your robot a sense of touch. They detect when they are being pressed or released, and you can use them to make your robot pick up things or act on command. For example, by pressing a Touch Sensor you can make your robot walk, talk, close a door, or turn off your TV.

There's also a Color Sensor that functions three ways: it distinguishes colors -- black and white, as well as a range of bright and pastel colors -- it distinguishes light settings, and it can be used as a color lamp.

And finally, the MINDSTORMS Software lets you program your robot. Use the software to create a program, and then download the program to the NXT by using the USB cable or the wireless Blue tooth connection. Mac- and PC-compatible drag-and-drop software gives you 16 building and programming challenges, from beginner to expert.

Overall, this set scores an excellent rating for its clever design elements. Our testers enjoyed the way the set brought a new level of interaction to their LEGO experience, and appreciated how easy it was to create their first robot. They also loved the way this set encourages inventive play -- all the cool hardware that makes up the set can be used to build any robot you dream up. Finally, our testers liked how this set offers a great balance of learning and fun, and encourages interest in science, computers, and engineering.

Microsoft Windows Requirements

Windows XP Professional or Home Edition with Service Pack 2 or newer

Intel Pentium processor or compatible, 800 MHz minimum (1.5 GHz or better recommended)

Windows Vista Service Pack 1 or newer

Intel Pentium processor or compatible, 1 GHz minimum (1.5 GHz or better recommended)

CD-ROM drive

Apple Macintosh Requirements

Apple MacOS X v10.4 or v10.5

PowerPC G3, G4, G5 processor, 600 MHz minimum

Intel processor (1.3 GHz or better recommended)

DVD drive

General System Requirements

512MB of RAM minimum

700MB of available hard-disk space

XGA display (1024x768)

1 available USB port

Compatible Blue tooth adapter (optional)

What's in the Box
NXT programmable LEGO Brick, Ultrasonic Sensor, Color Sensor, two Touch Sensors, three Interactive Servo Motors, USB cable, 7x6-wire cables, building instructions for four robots, user guide, software, test pad, and 619 LEGO pieces.

From the Manufacturer
Lego Mindstorms NXT is back and better than ever, with new robot models, even more customizable programming, and all-new technology including a color sensor. Mindstorms NXT 2.0 combines the unlimited versatility of the Lego building system with an intelligent microcomputer brick and intuitive drag-and-drop programming software. The new 2.0 toolkit features everything you need to create your first robot in 30 minutes and then tens of thousands of other robotic inventions that do what you want.

Customer Reviews

NXT 2.0: A Solid Improvement on the Best MINDSTORMS Set Ever
I first encountered the MINDSTORMS series in 2001 when I bought the Robotics Invention System 1.5 out of curiosity. Since then, I've purchased and used numerous MINDSTORMS sets, written two MINDSTORMS books, developed and taught a LEGO robotics course, and given LEGO presentations. So when I heard that LEGO was releasing the NXT 2.0 set in summer/fall 2009, I was curious to discover how LEGO would improve its flagship product. After finally getting my hands on a 2.0 set, I've been busy building, programming, and analyzing the kit's features. And I think this is the best MINDSTORMS set to date.

The original NXT set released in 2006 (I'll call it the "1.0 set") enjoyed enormous success but still had some shortcomings. The NXT 2.0 set addresses some of those flaws and really is everything the 1.0 set should have been. As a robotics kit, the NXT 2.0 set mainly involves building and programming, so I'll take a look at how the kit performs in each of these areas.

First, the building experience is fun and challenging while offering some exciting new additions. For the electronic elements, the NXT microcomputer and servo motors remain the same in both design and quantity; however, the selection of sensors has changed. There are now two touch sensors, an ultrasonic (distance) sensor, and the color sensor. The new color sensor boasts three functionalities. It can detect colors (6 basic colors), measure light intensity, and act as a lamp (emitting a red, blue, or green light). Unlike the 1.0 set, there is no light sensor or sound sensor: the new color sensor can function as a light sensor, and LEGO apparently thought that having two touch sensors would be more useful than having one touch sensor and one sound sensor as in the 1.0 set. I agree.

The building elements are, once again, studless LEGO TECHINC pieces rather than traditional bricks. The 1.0 set included a few TECHNIC bricks, but these are gone in the 2.0 set, which focuses entirely on studless construction. Overall, there is still a good selection of beams, pegs, and axles (including a new #9 length axle) as well as the addition of two small rubber bands. Also fun is the special ball shooter equipment along with 12 small, brightly colored balls.

There are only a few gears included, though. Whereas the 1.0 set included a fairly good variety and quantity of gears, the 2.0 set includes only a handful of double bevel gears and a single 12t bevel gear. This is a bit disappointing but also understandable. People like to add lots of gears to their robots to make them look cool, but lots of gears introduce lots of friction. The 2.0 kit's sample robot designs demonstrate how to connect pieces directly to motors rather than using gears to transmit the motion. This works fine and takes a little bit of getting used to, but I would still encourage new LEGO users to expand their collection of gears after purchasing the 2.0 set.

As for the programming, the 2.0 version of the included NXT-G software offers some welcome new features. A remote control, sound editor, image editor, new programming blocks, improved performance, and other features make programming a more enjoyable experience. Performance is noticeably better than in the 1.0 version but can still be sluggish.

The software includes a number of fun challenges spread across four robot designs: Shooterbot, Robogator, Color Sorter, and Alpha Rex. The sample robots are durable and work well, although some of the instructions for using Color Sorter were a bit confusing. The new version of Alpha-Rex is a truly fascinating robot: in addition to being a fun "advanced" model to build, new users can learn a lot from its incredibly compact and elegant design.

The NXT 2.0 set is leading the MINDSTORMS series in the right direction. I like what I see in this set, and I believe LEGO has a winner on its hands. The 2.0 set is more expensive than the 1.0 set--by $30--but I believe the improvements and added functionality justify the extra cost. In sum, the NXT 2.0 set is a great toolset for any robotics enthusiast and a must-have for MINDSTORMS fans.

A great set for the creative youngster (and for the inventive adult!)
SUMMARY:

I think that the LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0 is a great set for the creative youngster (and for the inventive adult!) This robotics kit can offer hours and hours of fun. While playing with it, you'll (your kid) be able to interact with people all over the world, and you'll have a great start in engineering.

---

At the moment of writing this review, 4 customer reviews have been posted: two 1-star reviews and two 5- star reviews. This gives an average of 3 stars, which is way below what the kit deserves. It deserves 5 stars.

Another customer (D. Perdue) has already posted a great review (5 stars) about the new features in the set, and in this review I'd like to add some more to this. Furthermore, I'd like to respond to the two negative reviews posted so far.

I have been into MINDSTORMS for about 4 years now, and my first robot set was a RIS 2.0 set (the older MINDSTORMS system). I purchased my first NXT set in 2007 and I still have not stopped playing with it. This is what I like about MINDSTORMS: the possibilities are endless. You can not only build and program robots, but you can also design, invent and even interact with the MINDSTORMS community.
By corresponding with others in this community, you'll get to learn new building and programming techniques, and you can share your knowledge and robot inventions with other LEGO - minded people. As a result, you can get in touch with people all over the world. This has been so for all the MINDSTORMS system, and now that the NXT 2.0 is introduced, I expect the community to grow even larger.

When you first open the NXT 2.0 box, you'll find a special bag with building elements called "start here!". With these parts you can start of building your first robot with step by step building instructions.
I have to admit, the next step is a little harder: programming. The drag-and-drop programming software is really easy to use, but the documentation isn't always very clear: there is not a step-by-step guide in the kit which teaches you all the ins and outs about programming (but there is a good reference manual in the software). Fortunately, there are enough sample programs to get you started. Everyone with a little creativity can do the trick.

As you finished playing with the basics of robot programming, you can start building some of the other robot models that appear on the NXT box: an alligator, a ball color sorter and a humanoid: Alpha Rex. I recommend to start with the training vehicle (Shooterbot) first, though. But, having built these four models doesn't end the fun yet!
There are a lot of websites dedicated to MINDSTORMS (NXT 2.0). Some of them offer building instructions so you can build even more robots. Apart from these websites, there are also plenty of MINDSTORMS books, which teach you how to make the best of your NXT set. Also, there are a few books, especially dedicated to NXT 2.0, coming out at the end of the year.

As you gain more MINDSTORMS experience you'll be able to invent your own robotic creations. Then, you can take photos, or even create a 3d model of your robot on your computer, and share it on the MINDSTORMS NXTLOG website.

In the rest of this review, I'd like to respond to the two 1-star reviews posted on Amazon as of now.

- Re: "Buyer beware!" (Customer support issue and technical problems)
I'm sorry to hear about your problems with the NXT 2.0. I know that a lot of MINDSTORMS sets are being returned to LEGO, but sometimes that is because people do not know how to use it. If this is the case, the mistake can often be solved easily (An example problem is an incorrectly placed motor or sensor cable).
In general, I would recommend to post issues on MINDSTORMS forums by the community (just Google for "the NXT step" or "NXTasy"). The people there usually know more about it than the technical support service.
I have to add that the programs on the NXT Intelligent Brick actually did correctly work on my end. These programs are not faulty, and regular programming using the software also worked with no problems.

Of course, when there is really a problem with the hardware in the set, it is good to let LEGO know and to request replacement parts. This turns out to be the case for this reviewer. Hopefully, this problem doesn't occur in too many sets. I've experienced the LEGO customer service to be quite helpful. In the past, I have had two broken electronic LEGO pieces, and I received new, working parts after a call with them.

UPDATE: I've just checked the NXT 2.0 User Guide, and found a small, but important error on page 15: The colored annonations that instruct the user to plug the cables are incorrect. With these cable configurations, the programs do not work indeed. You can follow the building steps in the software instead - these are correct.

- Re: "Better than ever?"
I agree that NXT 2.0 (as apposed to NXT 1.0) was not improved on the hardware side apart form a new Color. I think this is great. Why? All NXT 2.0 sets are still compatible with the NXT 1.0 sets, simply because they use the same intelligent brick. This way, existing users can upgrade without throwing their old system away. Furthermore, all the useful information made up by the community for NXT 1.0, is still just as valuable for NXT 2.0.

SUMMARY:

I think that the LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0 is a great set for the creative youngster (and for the inventive adult!) This robotics kit can offer hours and hours of fun. While playing with it, you'll (your kid) be able to interact with people all over the world, and you'll have a great start in engineering.

----

Laurens Valk, the Netherlands

Designer of the Manty robot which appears on the back of the NXT 2.0 box,
[...]

A little more whimsy would be nice...
I purchased the original Mindstorms 1.0 way back in the nineties. I absolutely loved it; it was a great workout for both my imagination and my ingenuity. It was also a great family toy: I could get the gears aligned and programmed, and my 8-year old daughter would supplement it with additional Legos for fun. That was what I loved about the original set: it did a wonderful job of straddling the line between robotics set and sheer silliness. The computerized brick looked like a giant yellow Lego; there were lots of colors, and it was compatible with other Legos. It even had an expansion set that allowed you to built animals and monsters, and came with Lego eyes, fins, and all kinds of fun little additions. The creations were functional (usually!), but also seemed to fit into the World of LegoLand.

This new set looks like...well, a robotics set. That's not a bad thing, but it means that this set needs to be compared to other robotics sets out there. Before, Mindstorms was completely unique, in a class all by itself. Now it looks like a very well-designed robotics set. The colors are drab, the 600+ pieces all have a specific practical function, there is less room for customizing.

Don't get me wrong, this set is a huge step up in functionality. The new color sensor alone is an enormous improvement. I will have hundreds of hours of fun with NXT 2.0. But I'm not sure my current young daughters will have much interest in it, and that makes me sad.

One last note: the box itself is pretty poorly designed. It's...a box. There are no dividers or compartments to keep organized. Not a huge issue, but you would think that at nearly $300 a pop the Lego folks would be willing to spring for a little extra cardboard.

LEGO Star Wars Separatists Shuttle (8036)

2010-01-10T17:39:00.000-08:00

Conquer the galaxy with the Separatists. * Includes 5 minifigures: Viceroy Nute Gunray, Onaconda Farr, droid pilot, and 2 battle droids! * Features opening cockpit and retractable landing gear! * Turn the knob to open the back hatch and hide Nute Gunray inside! * Shuttle measures 7 inches (17.8cm) long by 3 inches wide (7.6cm) by 7 inches (17.8cm) tall! * Set includes 259 pieces.

LEGO Droids Battle Pack 7654

2008-09-01T06:18:00.000-07:00

LEGO Droids Battle Pack 7654
From LEGO
Price: $9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Product Description:
When the Separatists attack, the Republic fights back with its legions of Clone Troopers. Build your army with an assortment of battle-ready troopers, complete with a blaster turret and speeder bike. Set includes Shock Trooper, Star Corps Trooper and two Clone Trooper mini-figures. 58 Pieces.

Knuffle Bunny

2008-08-28T10:55:00.001-07:00

Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity: 12.25" Plush Toy Character by Mo Willems
From Yottoy
Price: $19.59
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business daysShips from and sold by Gifts-and-Toys

Product Description:
A children's classic, now available in plush! Our Knuffle Bunny, from Caldecott Honor Award Winning Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale, has embroidered eyes, a velvet nose, and luxurious soft velour. Soft bean-filled body with ears lined with shiny velvet and a chenille tail. Knuffle Bunny is so huggable, it's no surprise that every child will want one! Stands 12.25" tall.

EyeClops Night Vision, Black

2008-08-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

EyeClops Night Vision, Black
From Jakks
Price: $79.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Description:
Take covert operations to the dark side with this handheld unit that lets you see up to 20 feet in the dark. Powered by actual infra-red driven night vision technology, EyeClops Night Vision enables clear visibility in even complete, pitch dark environments. Become a night spy, investigate nocturnal activities in your house and take games like hide 'n seek to a whole new level. Requires 4 "AA" batteries, not included. Measures 10"L x 12"W x 7"H.

Halo 3 Series 2 Master Chief

2008-08-28T02:35:00.000-07:00

Halo 3 Series 2 Master Chief

From McFarlane Toys
Price: $12.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Description
Thought to be the last surviving Spartan soldier, Master Chief possesses a unique trait that has made him both a hero and symbol of hope in the eyes of humanity, and a "demon" in the minds of his enemies. That trait? A rare combination of skill and luck that has seen him through many battles, including the destruction of two HALO installations. Measures 6" tall.

LEGO Clone Troopers Battle Pack 7655

2008-08-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

LEGO Clone Troopers Battle Pack 7655

From LEGO
Price: $9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Description :
The Trade Federation is on the march! Send your Separatist forces into battle against the Republic with a droid transport carrier and "hovering" STAP vehicle, complete with a full squad of armed and combat-ready battle droids. Set includes four Battle Droid and three Super Battle Droid mini-figures. 102 pieces.

LEGO Star Wars Imperial Dropship

2008-05-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

LEGO Star Wars Imperial Dropship

From LEGO

Price: $9.96 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com

Product Description:
Send in the Imperial Dropship with its stormtrooper squad! Equipped with laser cannons and a detachable troop platform, this speedy space transport is ready to battle the Rebellion on any planet in the Empire. Includes three stormtroopers and a shadow stormtrooper pilot. Lift back up to drop the clone troop platform into battle. Imperial Dropship is 4" long. 81 pieces.

LEGO Mindstorms NXT

2008-05-06T23:41:00.001-07:00

LEGO Mindstorms NXT
From LEGO
Price: Too low to display & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com
22 new or used available from $200.00

Product Description:
Bow to the next generation of LEGO Mindstorms now, with a 32-bit processor, redesigned sensors, Bluetooth and more.

LEGO Mindstorms NXT From LEGO

Wild Planet Hyper Dash

2008-05-06T23:14:00.000-07:00

Wild Planet Hyper Dash
From Wild Planet
Price: $19.99
& eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Availability: Usually ships in 24 hoursShips from and sold by Amazon.com
27 new or used available from $18.78

Product Description:
It's the electronic game that's as fast as you are. Test your speed and agility in a race against time using five targets and an electronic handheld unit. To start, set up your targets on the table, around the room, around the house or throughout the yard. Then, follow the announcer's commands as you zip around your racecourse to tag your targets with the handheld unit. The fastest time wins. Features four game modes that challenge your speed, skill, memory, coordination and teamwork. Includes ergonomically designed Hyper Dash unit and five labelled targets. Requires 3 "AAA" batteries, not included. Measures 4.5"L x 12"W x 10"H.

Baby Spring Float Sun

2008-05-06T01:41:00.001-07:00

Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy by Swimways
From Swimways

Price: $17.86 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25

Product Description:
An adorable accessory for the Baby Spring Float. Three-position adjustable, removable canopy protects baby from the sun and folds for storage just like the Baby Spring Float. Features an adorable "rainy day ducky" design and includes a carry/storage bag. 34"L x 30"W x 3"H. 1.64 lbs. Ages 9 to 24 months.

Webkinz Black And White Panda Plush

2008-05-02T01:24:00.000-07:00

Webkinz Black And White Panda Plush
From Ganz
Price: $7.49
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business daysShips from and sold by ABCTOY4me

Product Description:
Black Bear plush is made of several different fabrics. Both cotton stuffed and beanie. Tag on arm contains a code for the Webkinz "Adopt A Pet" website, virtual pet game. Approx. 71/2".

Live Butterfly Garden

2008-05-02T00:57:00.000-07:00

Live Butterfly Garden

From Insect Lore
Price: $13.97

Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business daysShips from and sold by TOYSCAMP

Product Description:
See one of nature's greatest miracles right before your eyes with this Oppenheim Best Toy Award-winning butterfly raising kit. Raise five Painted Lady butterflies while learning all about metamorphosis. See each caterpillar's transition as it matures, changes into a chrysalid, and finally emerges as a Painted Lady butterfly. After observing your butterflies, experience the joy of releasing them into your backyard.
Includes colorful habitat, coupon for five butterfly larvae with special food and complete instructions. Three butterflies are guaranteed to be perfect specimens. Measures 12" x 12" x 10".

Note: Please allow approximately 3 weeks for your larvae to develop. During extremely hot or cold weather, delivery of live larvae may be delayed. Available only in the Continental U.S. and Alaska. Note that shipping charge applies for delivery of live larvae.