mBot S.T.E.M. Educational Robot - Great intro to robotics?
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Promos
I was intrigued when I first saw the affordable mBot educational robot. But does this product deliver what a "kid's first robot" needs to actually teach them something? iFixit link: ifixit.com and use offer code LINUSTECH to save $10 off a purchase of $50 or more! Only valid until 7/22/2015. Pricing & discussion: linustechtips.com Support us: linustechtips.com Join our community forum: bit.ly twitter.com @LinusTech Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com
The video begins with Linus Media Group presenting the Embot, a $49 stem educational robot aimed at children, and questions whether it truly delivers on its promise of being a kid's first robot. The reviewer details the unboxing experience, listing all components including the MCore microchip, sensors, motors, chassis, and the testing materials, while also noting assembly challenges and quality concerns with hardware like the motors. The core of the review centers on the MBLOC software and the programming workflow, highlighting the multi-step setup that requires installing Adobe Air, selecting the MBOT board and extension, dealing with serial ports, updating firmware, and finally uploading Arduino-based code. The reviewer discusses Scratch integration, how Scratch converts to Arduino code, and the reality that the software and tutorials can be frustrating or incomplete, limiting multi-tasking and smooth line-following due to Arduino's lack of multi-threading. In conclusion, while the hardware is potentially solid and the embryonic software has some useful capabilities, the reviewer argues that the Embot is not a strong recommendation for most kids given its limited hardware, modularity, and software reliability, and suggests more established robotics kits for broader learning opportunities. The video also segues into an advertisement segment for iFixit tools, blending product promotion with commentary on repairability and professional-grade tools, before inviting viewer feedback on the Embot and questions about future robotics content.
Topics · robotics · educational_technology · product_reviews · science_and_technology
Questions answered
- What are the main components included with the Embot kit and what are the initial setup challenges?
- The Embot kit includes the MCore microchip, sensors, a Bluetooth module, wheels, motors, a chassis, a battery pack, a testing mat, screws, and a screwdriver. Initial setup challenges include confusing instructions, a screwdriver compatible with only one screw type, tight cable management, a detached motor wire, and a firmware/software installation sequence that requires multiple steps before programming can begin.
- How does the MBLOC software integration with Scratch affect programming for beginners?
- MBLOC offers a Scratch-based interface that translates Scratch projects into Arduino code, which can help beginners see how graphical programming maps to text-based code. However, users may still encounter reliability issues, limited multi-tasking, and occasional tool or sensor glitches that complicate learning and experimentation.
- Is the Embot recommended for children interested in robotics, and what are the alternatives suggested?
- The reviewer does not recommend the Embot for most children due to hardware limitations, limited build options, and software reliability concerns. Alternatives suggested include more established robotics kits such as Lego Mindstorms, VEX Robotics, and Parallax Arduino Shields, which offer greater learning potential and versatility.