| |
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The brightly-colored Lego building blocks have been capturing the hearts and the imagination of children for several decades now.
The word Lego comes from the combination of the Danish words,
 |
Best Selling #1
LEGO Mindstorms NXT
Sure, Mindstorms NXT is a toy, but it is an important toy, like a piano or a chemistry set. It's one of those items that engages an imagination and possibly opens doors to new interests. Since our future is surely to be shared with robots--it's already started happening, just look at Roomba--those robots will need, at least initially, humans to program and maintain them. Those people, years from now, will likely remember their experiences with Lego Mindstorms. Out of the Box
The main part of the kit is the NXT itself. It's about the size of an iPod (though a bit thicker) with a a loudspeaker, a monochrome LCD, and navigation keys on the front. This is the controller for the robot--it's brain, if you will. It has three ports on top for connecting to the servo motors and four ports on the bottom for connecting to four different sensors: Touch, Light, Sound, and Ultrasonic (see detail below).  | - The NXT: the computer-controlled brain of the Mindstorms robot
- Touch Sensor: enables the robot to feel and react to its environment
- Sound Sensor: enables the robot to react to sound
- Light Sensor: can detect light and color
- Ultrasonic Sensor: allows the robot to measure distance and react to movement
- Servo Motors: ensures the robot moves with precision
| The set includes Ethernet-like wires for connecting all of these to the NXT, as well as software and a basic USB cable for downloading programs from your computer. Then there are all the Lego parts, hundreds of them, and most are very small. It would be a good idea to get a plastic organizer for the different parts--it would not only make construction and storage easier but also part loss less likely. Hitting the Bricks
The instructions for MNXT are simple, illustrated, and they gently take the new user on an introductory path through the system. The quick start guide promises a 30-minute robot building and programing intro, though for me it was closer to 50 (I'm a little old and slow). It starts with a simple diagnostic routine which shows you how to test the function of all sensors, then proceeds to step-by-step picture instructions for building a basic first robot. It's about as complex as building a piece of Ikea furniture.
Programming is the real gem in this system. It has a drag-and-drop interface using pre-programmed objects that you pull from a palette and snap to other objects.
| Next, I installed the software. Be sure to check the system requirements (below). The software is well-designed and very intuitive. It comes with built-in video instructions on how to create your first simple program and download it to your NXT. Bringing It To Life
Programming is the real gem in this system. It has a 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. Programming this way is much easier than, say, creating a web page from scratch. Lego even offers a software development kit for getting deeper into the programming.  | | Mindstorms NXT "challenges" from top: Tribot, RoboArm, and Spike. | There comes a genuine thrill from seeing something you've created--even something simple and silly as my first program--come to life in a robot. It's akin to seeing yourself on TV for the first time. I played that program a dozen times. The software contains "challenges," which are similar step-by-step instructions for creating and programming more complex models, such as a robotic arm that can "perform simple tasks and react to different colors." Each challenge is divided into smaller tasks with step-by-step building, programming, and testing guides for each task. Accessing your latest program once it's downloaded to the NXT is pretty easy. Lego has set it up so that you can execute it by pressing the big orange center button four times in a row after start-up. I was surprised to find out that you don't need a computer to program the NXT. You can program directly into the NXT Program submenu. Bluetooth Ready
The NXT also has built-in Bluetooth wireless technology. If your computer has Bluetooth, you can test and download programs to the NXT without connecting the USB cable--a really handy feature if you're programming a complicated dance routine and you don't want your robot getting tripped up in cables. If your phone or PDA has Bluetooth, you might be able to use your device to control the robot. Best of all, Bluetooth allows you to create a network of up to three NXT devices. Think of the possibilities: three NXTs plus three sets of blocks and sensors equals bigger, more complex robots. My one and only complaint is that I wish the sensors had more "studs," those little round parts that allows Lego bricks to interlock. --Porter B. Hall
$249.99
Usually ships in 24 hours
|
 |
Best Selling #2
LEGO Star Wars V-Wing Fighter
Both original Star Wars fans and those just getting acquainted with the saga will enjoy putting together this replica of a V-Wing fighter from Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. This small model is only 8-1/2 inches long and, with 118 pieces, takes just 15 to 30 minutes to construct. It is a good beginner building set for younger kids and also suitable for collectors who aren't looking for a huge building challenge. The ship features wings that fold in and out and a detachable canopy (although a hinged canopy would be preferable). One Clone V-Wing Pilot minifig comes with the set and fits within the fighter's cockpit. The manual contains easy-to-follow illustrated instructions and includes a full inventory of all pieces with part numbers in case builders need to order a replacement. --Cristina Vaamonde
$19.99
Usually ships in 6-10 business days
|
 |
Best Selling #3
LEGO Star Wars Jedi Starfighter and Vulture Droid
Lego
$39.99
Usually ships in 6-10 business days
|
 |
Best Selling #4
LEGO Sports Grand Soccer Stadium
A perfect pastime for kids and adults with World Cup Soccer fever (when there are no games on, of course), this Lego model builds the soccer stadium and then allows for a two-player game. The set comes with a 22-by-14-inch tray that serves as the stadium and base for the field. A few extra touches, such as stadium lights, goals, and a scoreboard are also included. The game comes with a tiny soccer ball and 12 minifig players
$47.49
Usually ships in 24 hours
|
 |
Best Selling #5
LEGO Bionicle Lava Chamber Gate
Explore the elaborate Bionicle storyline with the Bionicle Lava Chamber Gate set, which includes four Toa Inika and four Piraka minifigs. The set comes with 373 pieces and a full-color, illustrated instruction booklet that diagrams model construction in 56 steps. Both the Toa and Piraka fight using clever gravity-fed mechanisms that quickly shoot plastic marbles, er, zamor spheres about eight feet in distance. The gate has a bridge that collapses at the pull of a switch, adding to the drama. Inside the box you'll find eight numbered parts bags, two plastic bases, two 6x14 flats, and instructions. Numbered parts bags make it easier to build the set in stages since the numbers correspond to discreet sections of the building diagrams. Also included is an illustrated block inventory with part numbers, in case you ever need to re-order a replacement block. --Porter B. Hall
$35.70
Usually ships in 24 hours
|
 |
Best Selling #6
LEGO Batboat - Hunt for Killer Croc
Even after the streets of Gotham have been swept clean of evil-doers, the swamps still provide refuge for notorious rogue Killer Croc. With the LEGO Batboat: Hunt for Killer Croc set, kids can explore this epic struggle with not one but three vehicles: Batman's hydrofoil, his detachable runabout, and Croc's boat. Batman's pivoting hydrofoil rotors and Croc's detachable surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) add to the fun. What's more, the Batman minifig comes with batcuffs, batarangs, and even a removable cowl. The Batboat set comes with 188 pieces, Batman and Killer Croc minifigs, and a full-color, illustrated instruction booklet that diagrams model construction for the hydrofoil in 24 steps, Croc's boat in 10 steps, and the runabout in nine steps. The instructions show photos, but not diagrams, of alternate models including a small jet fighter and an anti-aircraft battery. Inside the box you'll find instructions, five decals, and five bags of bricks, trim, and character pieces. Also included is an illustrated block inventory with part numbers, in case you need to ever re-order a replacement block. --Porter B. Hall
$19.99
This item is currently not available.
|
 |
Best Selling #7
LEGO Star Wars Imperial Star Destroyer
Designed to strike awe and terror into Rebels' hearts, the Imperial Star Destroyer and the rest of the Empire's fleet of space vessels maintain order in the galaxy through shows of power and ruthless fighting tactics. This massive (23-inches when assembled) Lego space ship, based on the Star Wars craft, will be a feather in the cap of any self-respecting Lego buff. With 1,366 pieces and a top and sides that swing open to reveal the inner workings, construction of the kit will be an adventure in itself. Once built, the Imperial Star Destroyer will provide hours more of play, as fans re-enact scenes from the millennia of fictional Star Wars history, or even create new battles and alliances in conjunction with other Lego Star Wars kits (Jabba's Sail Barge, the B-Wing Fighter, etc.). Kids (and adults) will love discovering the multiple gadgets within: a platform for Darth Vader to talk to a hologram of the Emperor, a meditation chamber for Darth Vader with a crane to remove his helmet, turbo laser cannons on the bridge that really discharge, an escape shuttle releases in case of emergency, a storage closet for Stormtrooper rifles, and a bridge that slides open. Nine mini-figures are included (Darth Vader, Grand Moff Tarkin, two Stormtroopers, two Emperor's Royal Guard, Imperial Officer, R2-D5, and Mouse Droid). --Emilie Coulter
$99.99
This item is currently not available.
|
 |
Best Selling #8
LEGO Star Wars Jabba's Sail Barge
Recreating part of the opening scenes of Star Wars Episode XI: Return of the Jedi, the Jabba's Sail Barge play set lets Star Wars fans young and old lead a daring assault on the cruel Jabba to free Rebel heroes. This set comes with 781 pieces, as well as movie character minifigs of Princess Leia, Han Solo, R2-D2, Boba Fett, Lando Calrissian, Luke Skywalker, and a Gamorrean guard. The instruction booklet diagrams model construction in 48 steps with several intermediate routines along the way. Construction completes with not only Jaba's barge, but with a landing skiff and the dreaded Sarlacc pit (sorry, sand not included). The barge features a laser canon, a forward catapult, and drop sides for easy positioning of minifigs. The skiff has a retractable plank where Luke can begin the attack. Inside the box you'll find 14 parts bags, six bow pieces, two sails, 5 rail pieces, Jabba the Hut figure, and instruction booklet. Also included is an illustrated block inventory with part numbers, in case you ever need to re-order a replacement block. --Porter B. Hall
$74.99
This item is currently not available.
|
 |
Best Selling #9
LEGO Star Wars TIE Interceptor
Collectors young and old will enjoy building this spacecraft, used by the Empire to defend the Death Star II in Star Wars: Episode VI
$19.99
This item is currently not available.
|
 |
Best Selling #10
LEGO SpongeBob Build-A-Bob
Sneak a peek inside SpongeBob's head! Down in Bikini Bottom, Plankton has somehow squeezed his way into the brain of SpongeBob SquarePants. As Plankton starts flipping levers and turning gears, bubbles shoot from SpongeBob's mouth and his big eyes spin. Affable SpongeBob, throughout alternating looks of glee and concern, simply goes with the flow. Standing over 11 inches tall, this is a big Bob, complete with trademark red tie, tube socks, and black shoes. Turn SpongeBob around to see what's on his mind--and how to control it, with instrument panels, moving gears, and a working catapult to launch the bubbles. The colorful diagrams found in the detailed instruction booklet are invaluable in assembling the 445 pieces of this set, which requires the building skills of an older child or adult. As with all Legos, the design is customizable and compatible with other Lego products. Mix and match with other SpongeBob SquarePants Lego sets (sold separately) to create a custom cartoon-inspired seascape. --Heather Lyndon
$29.99
This item is currently not available.
|
Modern Lego sets will still help the children on your list 'play well!'
| |
|
