Re: An Idea for new Mindstorm

>> is why I think these kits must be more popular.
>
> Sounds like a good idea.  In fact, LEGO has produced several bricks that 
> didn't
> require a computer.  But, I don't think they were more popular than the
> "programmable" type that do require a computer.
>
> Given that LEGO started making the RCX (which requires a PC) and the Scout 
> (does not
> require PC) at the same time, and has continued making the RCX for several 
> years,
> while the Scout didn't last very long, I think they've already tested that 
> option.

It is not what I wrote about. Microscout had very limited functionality in
either programming abilities and in/out control as well. To be really expandable
all abilities of RCX must be kept (or refined).

Use of SD card (as written in another message) might be OK, but I think there is
a cheaper way to develop proprietary interface to something like preprogrammed
ROM chips. In mass production their cost is very, very low. And there is no
requirement for owner of the kit to be able to prepare its own program in this
chips - interface to computer may work in different way.

> If the problem is a PC, it shouldn't be too hard to find an old PC that 
> should work
> just fine.  For all my LEGO stuff, I currently use a 200 mhz laptop, which 
> cost me
> $250 about three years ago.  I'm sure there are old desktop computers all 
> over that
> people are trying to get rid of, and would work just fine.

In case of computer the problem is not its price, but complexity. And I think,
if someone buys LEGO at regular basis, with current prices, it is not problem to
buy computer as well. To load program from computer one have to do a lot of
additional steps - it is more complex than attach some preprogrammed media.

If expansion kit includes ready-to-use program and LEGO elements, learning curve
is lower. No computer, no programming. Just attach the preprogrammed media to
the RCX as usually bricks are attached.

And TLC get the ability to charge for software. If these kits are very popular,
than cost of production single "programmable item" woulb be less than cost of
brick modling. Therefore, profitability of these kits is higher.

This model is good to both sides, TLC and customers. Customers get cheaper kits
(while all RCX abilities are kept) which are sold better (and there are a lot of
different kits). These kits are simplier in use (no PC, no programming),
therefore more popular, and TLC even get more money, because they sell software
with each of this kit like Microsoft :)