Christmas Toys Ideas

LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0

Santa — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 11:45:36 +0000

Take LEGO to the next level with MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0. Combining the versatility of the LEGO building system with a microcomputer brick and intuitive programming software, this building kit enables you to construct robots that see, speak, feel, and move. Designed for ages 10 and up, the 2.0 robotics tool set features everything you need to create and program your first robot in approximately one hour. After that, you can create an endless lineup of robots that do what you want--if you can dream it, you can build it. MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0 Ages: 10 and up Pieces: 619 Requires: 6 "AA"/LR6 batteries (not included) What We Think Fun factor: Durability: Ease of assembly: Educational factor: Novelty factor: The Good: Brings LEGO to life. The Challenging: Booklet only includes instructions for one basic robot. In a Nutshell: Everything you need to build and program robots -- jump starts inventive play. With MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0, you can construct robots that see, speak, feel, and move. View larger. Use the included software to program your robot and watch it come to life. View larger. Build, Program, Go Creating a MINDSTORMS robot is challenging -- but not too difficult -- with an illustrated step-by-step booklet and software showing the way. The booklet gives you instructions for building a basic "Quick Start" robot only, which is an easy introduction to the MINDSTORMS experience. This robot took our two adult testers about 30 minutes to build and 30 minutes to program. After that, they spent a lot of time just playing with their creation and testing its abilities. Once you master the basics of MINDSTORMS, you'll need to use the included software to get instructions for more advanced creations. You can also use the MINDSTORMS web site to find instructions for many other robots, or you can create robots on your own. No matter what you choose to create, the principles are the same: just build the robot using the LEGO elements in the kit, and program it on your computer using the software. Then watch your robot come alive. NXT Technology Brings LEGO to Life MINDSTORMS NXT 2.0 features the latest in robotic technology: an advanced programmable microcontroller, Interactive Servo Motors, smart sensors, icon-based drag-and-drop programming software, interactive challenges, and wireless Blue tooth and USB connections -- all the smart technologies you need to create your custom robot. First, the brain of the MINDSTORMS robot is NXT, an intelligent, computer-controlled LEGO brick that features a 32-bit microprocessor, a large matrix display, input and output ports, and a speaker. Second, three Interactive Servo Motors give you precise control over the robot and ensure that the robot moves with precision -- the built-in rotation sensor can measure one-degree steps. Third, there are four robotic sensors. The first is the Ultrasonic Sensor, one of two sensors that gives your robot vision. You can use it to make your robot avoid obstacles, sense and measure distance, and detect movement. And fourth of all, two Touch Sensors give your robot a sense of touch. They detect when they are being pressed or released, and you can use them to make your robot pick up things or act on command. For example, by pressing a Touch Sensor you can make your robot walk, talk, close a door, or turn off your TV. There's also a Color Sensor that functions three ways: it distinguishes colors -- black and white, as well as a range of bright and pastel colors -- it distinguishes light settings, and it can be used as a color lamp. And finally, the MINDSTORMS Software lets you program your robot. Use the software to create a program, and then download the program to the NXT by using the USB cable or the wireless Blue tooth connection. Mac- and PC-compatible drag-and-drop software gives you 16 building and programming challenges, from beginner to expert. Overall, this set scores an excellent rating for its clever design elements. Our testers enjoyed the way the set brought a new level of interaction to their LEGO experience, and appreciated how easy it was to create their first robot. They also loved the way this set encourages inventive play -- all the cool hardware that makes up the set can be used to build any robot you dream up. Finally, our testers liked how this set offers a great balance of learning and fun, and encourages interest in science, computers, and engineering. Microsoft Windows Requirements Windows XP Professional or Home Edition with Service Pack 2 or newer Intel Pentium processor or compatible, 800 MHz minimum (1.5 GHz or better recommended) Windows Vista Service Pack 1 or newer Intel Pentium processor or compatible, 1 GHz minimum (1.5 GHz or better recommended) CD-ROM drive Apple Macintosh Requirements Apple MacOS X v10.4 or v10.5 PowerPC G3, G4, G5 processor, 600 MHz minimum Intel processor (1.3 GHz or better recommended) DVD drive General System Requirements 512MB of RAM minimum 700MB of available hard-disk space XGA display (1024x768) 1 available USB port Compatible Blue tooth adapter (optional) What's in the Box NXT programmable LEGO Brick, Ultrasonic Sensor, Color Sensor, two Touch Sensors, three Interactive Servo Motors, USB cable, 7x6-wire cables, building instructions for four robots, user guide, software, test pad, and 619 LEGO pieces.

Qwirkle Board Game

Santa — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 10:25:13 +0000

Our tactile wooden block game combines the logic and strategy of SetÂ® with the creative multi-maneuver game play of ScrabbleÂ®. Easy-to-learn rules mean you'll be creating columns and rows of matching colors and shapes in no time! Look for opportunities to score big by placing a tile that touches multiple pieces and matches both shapes and colors; the player with the most points wins. 108 blocks.

Samsung UN46C8000 46-Inch 1080p 3D 240 Hz LED HDTV

Santa — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 03:45:23 +0000


Samsung LED HDTVs combine breakthrough picture quality and advanced connectivity options that will keep you entertained 24/7. This UN46C8000 LED HDTV also makes it easy to be green, and will save you some green, by being ENERGY STAR compliant.

Razor E200 Electric Scooter

Santa — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 09:52:20 +0000

Cruise around the neighborhood in style with the Razor E200 electric scooter. An ultra-quiet chain-driven motor, and a handy twist-grip throttle accelerator, the E200 is the perfect device for teens and adults wanting to speed over to a friend's house or head to the park. Unlike Razor's E300S and E500S scooters--which offers a seated ride--the E200 requires you to stand while zipping through town. But standing in the E200 isn't a problem thanks to the full-size deck and frame, which are custom designed for ages 13 and up. Once you're on the move, the variable-speed motor ramps up to 12 miles per hour--fast enough to have fun, but not fast enough to be a menace on the street or sidewalk. The long-life rechargeable battery, meanwhile, lasts for up to 45 minutes of continuous use per charge (with an eight-hour charge time), so you can easily cruise to the grocery store and back without running out of juice. Other details include 8-inch pneumatic tires for a smooth ride, a hand-operated rear brake, and such accessories as a pair of 12-volt batteries, a charger, and tools. The E200, which offers a maximum weight limit of 220 pounds, is backed by a 90-day warranty. The buyer and rider of the E200 scooter are responsible for knowing and obeying all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the riding and use of scooters. Specifications: For ages 13 and older Single speed chain-driven motor 24V (Two 12V) sealed lead acid battery system Battery charge time: 12 hours UL approved battery charger incluided Product Weight: 45 pounds Assembled Product Dimensions: 37 x 16 x 42 inches

Kidkraft Retro Kitchen and Refrigerator in Pink

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:36:11 +0000

With our Pink Retro Kitchen, kids can cook up feasts for the whole family. The young chefs in your life are sure to love this wooden kitchen's bright colors and adorable details. Features: Refrigerator, freezer, oven and dishwasher all open and close Knobs on dishwasher, oven and sink turn Removable sink for easy cleanup Design and colors will remind mom and dad of their own childhoods Large enough that multiple children can play at once Made of wooden products Sturdy construction

Magna-Tiles Translucent Colors 100 pieces

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:30:20 +0000


3 years & up. These magnetic tiles teach spatial relationships, math, logic, and problem-solving through creative building! The tiles attract on all sides and in all combinations, helping children move from two-dimensional to three-dimensional creations. Unbreakable set contains 50 Small Squares, 4 Large Squares, 15 Isosceles Triangles, 11 Right Triangles and 20 Equilateral Triangles.

Radio Flyer All-Terrain Steel and Wood Wagon

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:14:52 +0000

Step 2 Up & Down Roller Coaster

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:00:29 +0000

Let your child experience the up-and-down thrills of a roller coaster in the safety of your living room or driveway with the Up and Down Roller Coaster from Step2. The colorful snap-together track reaches 10 feet long and comes with two sets of non-slip steps that lock onto the track for added safety. The coaster car features a high back, handrail and foot rests for a secure ride. Measures approximately 123"L x 30.5"W x 14.75"H. Comes with track and coaster car. Holds up to 60 pounds. Adult supervision recommended.

Fisher Price Learning Home

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 02:40:08 +0000

Baby loves crawling through the big blue front door into a two-sided playhouse that encourages exploration of everyday activities and introduces the alphabet and numbers. With soothing music, traditional sing-a-long songs and sounds, the Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Learning Home with shape-sorter and two interactive play modes makes the experience of learning a joy. Baby will learn from cause and effect activities and be rewarded for taking risks. It measures 29" x 22" x 32 and it requires 3 "C" batteries, which are not included.

Modular Playgrounds

Santa — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 02:27:29 +0000

SportsPlay Equipment is known for fun equipment of exceptional safety and durability. Since 1996, SportsPlay has been focused on maintaining the best value on the playground and in the neighborhood. We offer an unparalleled diversity in our product line - ranging from classic and modern play equipment to a full sports line and a new offering of thermoplastic site amenities. Were sure to have what you need for your play environment. . This modular unit resembles a castle and will trigger childrens imaginations. The castle battlement panels are all specially formed to create this imaginative theme great for engaging young minds. This playground structure features heavy duty 5 inch steel posts castle theme panels and activity equipment. Use Zone: 37 x 46. Color: Purple Red Blue Tan Orange Yellow Green White Gray Black.