Hi!
I’m new to the group but finally decided to get involved with robotics with my two daughters aged 11 and 14. Quite a few years ago I picked up a Vex system from Radio Shack…yes…THAT Radio Shack when they were going out of business.
I have another kit here but specifically for the Vex system, is it still a decent place to begin the robotics journey or is it considered an outdated technology? I guess I’m wondering if it’s any use to me or have I been carrying around what amounts to a pile of parts for the scrap heap all these years?
No doubt there will be additional information you may need to help me out with this. Let me know what that information may be and I’ll gladly provide it. I’m anxious and excited to begin but want to start at the right point.
Thank you so much in advance for your help!
@TheBabblingDad Welcome to the RobotShop Community. Treat VEX as you would LEGO - the mechanical parts are still used with the newest kits, and although the electronics are no longer compatible, they do work with much of the same software. If your children have already outgrown the kits (and learned the basic elements of mechanical design and programming), there are other kits. If not, VEX is still one of the best kits of that age range. A newer VEX kit simplifies the electrical connections, but the mechanics and programming are effectively the same. There are new sensors and plastic parts are different colors.
A comparable system is MakeBlock: https://www.robotshop.com/en/makeblock-en.html
These require a bit more in terms of electrical wiring:
https://www.robotshop.com/en/makeblock-mbot-ranger-3-in-1-transformable-stem-educational-robot-kit.html
The idea at their age would be to foster interest (don’t force) and if they have a preference for a particular aspect (mechanical, electrical, programming etc.) feel free to have them pursue that, as it may lead to a career path.
Other robots suggested for high schoolers can be found here:
@cbenson Thanks so much for the help and information. It’s a big help and I’m excited that they’re now showing some interest. Glad I found the forum.
