Frequently Asked Questions

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 39 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. 017379