The Parts

Cables

• Used to hook up inputs/outputs

• Three sizes:• 20 cm• 35 cm• 50 cm• Directions mention

specific holes

Programmable Brick• The main piece to any

Mindstorm creation• CPU for robot• Takes 6 AA batteries

– Runs out quite fast• Input• Capable of running

advanced programs• Programmable 2 ways:

– on the brick– on the computer

Sensors

Ultrasonic Sensor

• input• Allows robot to “see”• Can measure distances• Can react to movement• x1

Touch Sensor

• input• Reacts to environment• Senses if robot bumps

into anything• Hole in front• x2

Light sensor

• input• Senses light• Differentiates colors• Lamp• x1

Ports

The Pieces

normal pieces

• Mostly look like this• Match pieces to pics• Bars go through holes• Round= rotate (ex: wheels)• Plus-shaped= holding

connector beams

• Used for structure• Size= number of holes• Can be strung together

on axel• Can have plus holes

Axels

• Used to allow movement

• Can fit into both plus and round holes

• Ex: wheels, pivot points, etc

• Secured by end caps and spacers

The buttons

• Orange button:– On button– Selects options– Accept

• Gray button:– Backs up one layer (go back)– Turns off machine

• Arrow keys– Scrolls through options

Connecting to the Computer: USB

This is what you’ll need

Step 1: attach USB cord to Brick

Step 2: Attach USB cord to Computer

Step 3: Load up Software

Step 4: Open tools and click on remote control

Step 5: open connections

Step 6: If connected, it should show up in the Window (yellow)

Step 7: You should now be able to use the keyboard to move the motors

Connecting to the Computer: Bluetooth

Attention:

• This will only work if your computer has Bluetooth installed in it. If it does not, please use the previous method, using the USB wire.

Step 1: turn on Bluetooth on the Brick

Step 2: Set Brick to visible

Step 3: Make sure Bluetooth is on on your computer

Step 4: go to The lower right corner of the work area and click the nxt window button

Step 5: click scan

Step 6: select NXT from the list to connect

Step 7: If you are asked for a passkey, enter 1234 as the code. If not, skip to step 9

Step 8: Enter the passkey on your NXT. Hit the orange button to accept