New Vision for Lego Kind
Written: Oct 09 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Low cost "toy" cam for computers and MindStorm. Easy to use software.
Cons: Low resolution and limited capability beyond its intended functionalities. Only on Windows 98.
The Bottom Line: For MindStorm enthusiast only. For webcam/digital cam purpose, look for something better and new.
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| arsinoe's Full Review: LEGO - Vision Command |
There's no doubt that Lego is my favorite toy from my childhood, and MindStorm series is just what the doctor ordered for the kid within me after all those years. I justified buying this for two reasons; to have an "eye" for my MindStorm Robot set, and have a low cost webcam for my computer. I succeed in some degree with the purchase of this cam after I found that the cam in this package and Spielberg Movie Studio Set is essentially the same. While this package cost $99 at the retail, the studio package cost is double of that. The difference maybe in the software that comes with it, but I don't know in detail how they may differ.
At first, I was surprised at the size of this cam: it is so small that can fit into your palm. I was shopping for high-cost cam that can double as a low-cost digital cam and they were bulky. But this cam has nice design that combines compactness and sturdiness. It is a "toy", no mistake about it.
The software, which supports only "old" Windows 98, did installed without a hitch. You just have to be a little patient while the computer is searching for the camera connection and changing CDs during the process. USB connection is a nice touch, except I cannot hook it up to any of other OS, like Mac or latest Windows products. It was released in 2000 and it's already getting out-dated, yet Lego doesn't seem to care to update the product, unlike recent Robotic Invention Set version 2.0. (Or maybe not.)
The USB cable is 15 feet long, so it can cover a decent size room. If you got a laptop, the mobility increases, but again, it must have Windows 98, or it won't work--at all.
The software comes in two distinct modes, camera mode and vision command mode. Camera mode is just for camera works, like snap shots, video shots, motion detections, animations, etc. The program is easy to use and well-organized within itself. However, I haven't found the way to hook it up with any other program beside itself.
The pictures are decent, but nothing you can make an art out of. (Or you can be little more creative given its limitations.) The resolution is low, the color is low, the contrast is quite low, the zoom is non-existent, and the video capture is jerky at best. You get what you paid for, which is $50 I paid on eBay. I think this IS the right price for the cam given the latest digital cameras out there.
The camera part is only 50% of the whole enjoyment of this package. Unfortunately, I do not have the Robotic Invention Set with me to test this part. But, the possibility is very exciting that I witnessed from the demo videos.
All in all, if you are serious about Lego and MindStorm series, I highly recommend it. Webcam part is a bonus, in that sense. However, if you are looking for just web/digital camera, look the other way. I believe I still have to get a decent digital camera even after this purchase so that I can take some more presentable pictures.
Lastly, have fun!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 52
Type of Toy: Blocks
Age Range of Child: 9 Years or Older
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Epinions.com ID:
arsinoe
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Member: Calvin Choi
Location: USA
Reviews written: 35
Trusted by: 5 members
About Me:
I am that I am.
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