When will the next version of LEGO MINDSTORMS be available?

The sets with Software should be available from September 2006.  You can now preorder in our Online Shop here:
http://shop.educatec.ch/legoeducationaldivision/501185948c09e7034/index.php

Will the existing LEGO Education robotics system still be available?

Yes. LEGO Education continues to provide sets, software, technical support and services for LEGO MINDSTORMS for Schools and the ROBOLAB programming software. Exclusive to schools will be accessories that allow them to use parts of their old kits with the new. And Tufts University’s Center for Engineering and Educational Outreach will play a key role in providing professional support and advice for new and existing users.

What new and/or updated hardware options are available with MINDSTORMS Education NXT?

The new base set for MINDSTORMS Education NXT includes a new intelligent brick, two new sensors (sound and ultrasonic), new interactive servo motors with built-in rotation sensors, and updated light and touch sensors. The set has over 400 elements.

What are the features of the NXT intelligent brick?

The brick features a 32-bit microprocessor, a larger display, 4 input ports, 3 output ports, a real sound speaker, and is USB 2.0 and Bluetooth® compatible. It also includes a rechargeable lithium battery system with an AC plug.

Are there new sensors in MINDSTORMS Education NXT?

Yes. The new ultrasonic sensor acts as the eyes of the robot, measuring distance and detecting movement and objects. The sound sensor can react to sound commands and patterns and recognize tones. The rotation sensor has been incorporated into the servo motors.  The touch and light sensors have also been updated.

Is the building system different from previous LEGO Education robotics systems?

Yes. MINDSTORMS Education NXT primarily uses TECHNIC beams and connectors instead of traditional LEGO stud-based SYSTEM building elements. The TECHNIC system has many advantages. TECHNIC robots can be built quicker, and are sturdier than robots built with SYSTEM bricks. They also allow for more functionality and movement capabilities. However, many SYSTEM bricks are included in the new MINDSTORMS Education NXT set, and SYSTEM bricks can be used in many aspects of robot building within the new system.

What is Bluetooth®?

Bluetooth is a short-range radio technology that facilitates communication between wireless devices such as cell phones, PDAs, handheld computers, and wireless-enabled laptops and desktops. Bluetooth communication does not require line-of-sight between the communicating devices.

What can Bluetooth in the NXT brick be used for?

Bluetooth enables the NXT brick to communicate wirelessly to all devices with Bluetooth capabilities. Exclusive to the MINDSTORMS Education NXT software, Bluetooth also enables the computer to communicate to several NXT devices at the same time.

What is the new MINDSTORMS Education NXT software like?

The new software is icon-based, like its predecessor ROBOLAB™. This means that students drag and drop icons to “build” programs. It is intuitive and very user-friendly, and is Mac and PC compatible.

How can students learn how to use the software?

The MINDSTORMS Education NXT software includes Robot Educator. Robot Educator is a series of approximately 40 tutorials that take users step-by-step through all areas of the software. Built-in progression makes it possible for teachers to focus on selected areas and functions that match student capabilities and curriculum needs.

Will the FLL Challenge change because of the new MINDSTORMS Education NXT?

FLL anticipates no game-related advantage or disadvantage to using either the new or the existing technology in the 2006 FLL Challenge. The 2006 FLL Challenge will be designed to support both the existing and new MINDSTORMS Education NXT technology. FLL is in the process of evaluating a migration plan to introduce the new technology into FLL Challenges in future years.

Do I have to purchase the new MINDSTORMS Education NXT set to participate in FLL?

No. When FLL registration opens in May, 2006 teams will have the option of purchasing either the existing or the new Robot Set. Of course, veteran teams may continue to use the set they already own. The 2006 FLL Challenge will be designed to support both the existing and new MINDSTORMS Education NXT technology. In Central Europe, the NXT will not be accepted till 2007.

What is in the new FLL Robot Set?

This specially priced set is available exclusively to FLL teams through the FLL registration process. The FLL Robot Set will include the MINDSTORMS Education NXT base set plus a selection of additional building elements, an additional touch sensor, software, a rechargeable battery system, an FLL team site license, and a storage container. As with the existing registration process, teams may purchase one (1) FLL Robot Set per paid FLL team registration.

If I opt for the new set when I register for FLL, will I receive the product before August?

No. The new product is not available for shipment until August 2006. Teams will have the option to purchase the existing technology, which will ship when registration orders begin filling in June.