Note: Due to production delays, this item is shipping in 4-5 weeks after receipt of the order, normal lead time is around 3 weeks.

RiQ Kit - Classic Bluetooth

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• Recommended Ages: 9+ (Grades 4+)
• Number of Students: 1-4
• Lesson Plan Sample PDF
  

 

This is the Classic Bluetooth version (Andriod, Windows, Apple computers). LE Bluetooth version (low energy for iPad v3 or later) also available.‚ The Cortex requirement for Windows devices is Windows 7 and above. For OS X devices it is 10.5 and above.

A Fun, Creative, & Interactive Introduction to the World of Robotics

RiQ is a friendly and versatile‚ robot kit‚ designed to be simple to build, easy to program, and fun to learn with. In less than 10 minutes, RiQ can be assembled and ready to roll! With step-by-step instructions, you will be programming and watching your RiQ spring to life in minutes. RiQ comes with multiple sensors including light, sound, touch, and more that enable him to interact with the physical world. Flexible programming tools allow for limitless play, experimentation, and imagination as kids experience the exciting world of robotics programming.

RiQ Includes:

Bluetooth Dongle

Unleash RiQ with wireless communication from your Android or IOS tablet or any computer or laptop with Bluetooth capability! ‚ RiQ talks USB also, but no wires is far more fun! ‚ Make sure to order the right dongle ¢‚¬œ Bluetooth classic or BLE.

Ultrasonic Sensor

RiQ ¢‚¬Å“eyes help him find his way using ultrasonic sound waves! ‚ Use high frequency waves to navigate and identify objects with the power of science!

Infrared Sensor

RiQ uses infrared sensors to detect differences in reflected light of off surfaces ¢‚¬œ it the perfect solution for line following or sumo wrestling robot matches when RiQ needs to stay in the ring!

Light Sensor

This sensor enables RiQ to react to the amount of ambient light he senses - for example, program your robot so that when the lights go on he runs for his life!

 

Touch Sensor

Use touch sensors (pressure sensitive switch) with RiQ to make sure he knows when he runs into a wall, a chair leg, or your pets.

LEDs

Now that flashy. Bright pink and blue LEDs give RiQ the ability to light up the room with excitement and design creativity.

Programming RiQ

Easily communicate with your robot using the included PCS Cortex(TM) software. The All-New Cortex 5.0 is compatible with Windows and Apple computers and, best of all, offers tablet based robotics programming for Android and iPad!! ‚ The Cortex robotics programming language is gamified, visual, and intuitive. Kids have so much fun with RiQ they don't realize they're learning to program robots!

The PCS Cortex makes learning to program as easy as dragging and connecting logic blocks together on your tablet or computer screen. ‚ Learn logic, sequencing, and decision making concepts as you quickly learn to build increasingly complex programs. Apply math concepts as you use degrees, counters, fractions, variables, and boolean logic operators to create robotic programs that make RiQ dance, wiggle, race, hide, battle, and squeal based on what he encounters in his environment. ‚  Inspire your children to become passionate about science and engineering through engaging robotics activities.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Included in the RiQ kit?
The kit includes motors, cables, fischertechnik® building elements, sensors, the all powerful PCS Brain‚ robotic controller, and even a rechargeable battery solution to provide you endless hours of RiQ excitement. The kit includes everything you need to build the RiQ in six different ways.

1. Scaredy Bot, He afraid of the light, watch him run!
2. Art‚ - He draws like Picasso if you can program it!
3. Red Rover‚ Using the awesome force of Infrared light, Red Rover follows lines anywhere you command!
4. Bounce Bot‚ Sure, he touchy when you push his buttons! ‚ Aren't we all?!
5. Bat Bot‚  Harnessing the power of ultrasonic sound waves RiQ uses echolocation to avoid obstacles!
6. Illumi Bot‚ - Sporting incredibly bright LEDs RiQ becomes one flashy bot whenever you command it!

These six projects are just the beginning. Once you learn how to take command of the PCS Brain the opportunities are endless!

 

What Devices Can I Use to Control and Program RiQ?
The PCS Cortex‚ is an incredibly easy-to-use programming environment that provides the fastest and easiest way to learn how to code. ‚ Using the simple drag and drop visual programming environment (watch our video sample to see how easy it is) RiQ fans can quickly learn how to control his behaviors. ‚ The PCS‚ Cortex‚ runs on Windows, MacOS, Android, and IOS. ‚ See the FAQ on programming with Tablet Devices for details on this topic.

About Bluetooth & Tablet Devices

Tablet Devices including Android and IOS (iPad) communicate with the PCS Brain(TM) using Bluetooth. Make sure you select the correct Bluetooth option when you purchase. Bluetooth classic works with most everything, however you will need to select the Bluetooth LE dongle for iOS iPad 3 and above as well as the iPad Mini. ‚ At this time the Cortex app will be published for iPad only because of UI sizing. Check your device specifications if you are not sure which Bluetooth dongle to select. The Cortex requirement for Windows devices is Windows 7 and above. For OS X devices it is 10.5 and above.

IMPORTANT: Tablet based programming, either Android or iOS, requires an active Internet connection for compiling the code prior to downloading it to the PCS Brain(TM). If you are using a desktop or laptop computer you will have the option to compile locally or online.

Can I Use Bluetooth to Control RiQ from My Computer?
Absolutely, Windows and Apple computers with Bluetooth capabilities can pair and communicate with RiQ, just like tablets! Check your system specifications if you are not sure which Bluetooth dongle to select, most computers will be Bluetooth Classic compatible. Please note, if your computer is not equipped with native Bluetooth you can buy an inexpensive USB Bluetooth dongle for your system.

Is RiQ Compatible With Other Building Systems?
Versatility is RiQ middle name as the PCS Brain‚ has the ability to connect to LEGO®, fischertechnik®, K-NEX®, Vex®, Erector®, Minds-i®, and more. Through simple R/C hobby compatible screw-hole adapters (sold separately) you can literally bolt the PCS Brain‚ to just about anything.

Can I Use a USB Connection to Program RiQ?
Communication via a USB connection is available for laptop/desktop computers on both Windows and MacOS a USB cable is included in the RiQ kit for this purpose.

I Homeschool, Can I Use RiQ to Teach Coding?
Absolutely! PCS Edventures educational products are used in classrooms and afterschool environments all over the world.  RiQ is entirely appropriate for home education use and includes a software license that is more appropriate and more affordable for the home environment. A student using RiQ at home will go through building and programming projects and learn the basics of coding through fast and easy robot builds and coding experiences. From there, students literally have access to an infinite amount of projects they can create.

What is this Whole Arduino Thing About?
Arduino is AWESOME. ‚ From the official Arduino Website: “Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. It intended for anyone making interactive projects. ‚  RiQ has Arduino at heart as he is built on the world famous Arduino Uno platform. ‚  RiQ is a special adaptation that makes it easy for anyone to get started with Arduino since we've added important features such as DC motor drivers, servo control, and easy-to-use connectors. Best of all, the whole enchilada is wrapped up in the custom designed, transparent PCS Brain‚ case that allows you to see all the action inside, but easily attach to a multitude of building systems. Finally, the PCS Cortex‚ provides you a simple drag and drop environment to learn programming, but you can easily view your Arduino based code anytime as your skills progress and you prepare to enter the text-driven, power-coding world of the Arduino language!

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