Mobile robotics platform tops 2008 robot gift ideas

12/23/2008 2:45 PM EST

The mobile platform - the Pololu 3pi robot - seems well deserving of top choice and Robots.net's description as "one of the best beginner robots." Designed to excel in maze-solving competitions, it features two micro gearmotors, five reflectance sensors, an 8 x 2-character LCD, a buzzer, three user pushbuttons and a C-programmable ATmega168 microcontroller running at 20 MHz. It's available for $99.95 ($119 with a USB programmer and cable).

A short (3:28) video introducing the basic features and operation of the 3pi robot is available here:

Incidentally, along with their top ten gift ideas, Robots.net listed a variety of "stocking stuffer" suggestions. These included the Ultimate WALL•E Remote-Control Robot, the Gakken Mechamo Centipede, Tincan Tools Hammer ARM/Linux Controller and - the closest thing to a stocking stuffer of the bunch - the $3 Tomy Wind-up Robot.

Finally, for even more robot gift ideas, check out the Robot Gift Guide at Makezine. Some of the interesting stuff listed there (in addition to those on Robots.net's list) includes a mobile webcam, robot inflatables, micro-robotic creatures, and parts including solar cells and gearmotors.

Comments, questions or suggestions? Email me at rich.pell@verizon.net.

Related links:
Building an efficient maze robot that can get there fastest with the least effort
Pleo evolves on four legs and two ARMs
Make Your Own Home Bot With iRobot's New Robotics Platform