Robots are used to deactivate bombs, to do work in outer space, to work on assembly lines, and just for fun. We'll learn how to build a robot at home and discuss the future of robotics. [Episode #1805, First broadcast: 10/17/2000] LEGO MindStorms The LEGO MindStorms Robotic Invention System enables kids 12 and up to design and program real robots that move, act, and think on their own using RCX, an autonomous LEGO microcomputer that can be programmed using a PC. Kids (and adults) can create everything from a light-sensitive intruder to a robotic rover that can follow a trail, move around obstacles, and even duck into dark corners. Woodside High School's "Terminator" "Terminator" is the product of Woodside High's Robotics Team and an entry in the National Robotics Competition, held yearly since 1995. The Robotics Competition is a national engineering contest immersing high school students in the world of engineering by giving them six weeks, to work with engineers to brainstorm, design, construct, and test a working robot. Along with winning the 1999 Western Regional, "Terminator" was named the most defensive robot in the competition for its remarkable ability to grab onto a 130-pound puck, push it to the opponents' side, then rear up and climb on top of the puck. Sony's AIBO An entertainment robot, AIBO looks like a mechanical dog, has its own emotions and instincts, and walks on four legs like man's best friend. AIBO learns by living and interacting with you, developing its own unique personality unlike that of any other AIBO! Probotic's Cye Cye is a new domestic robot that uses wireless technology to place itself at the beck and call of its owners. Cye is controlled by a graphical user interface called Map-N-Zap that loads onto a PC. With the software, users acquaint the robot with its surroundings by dragging an icon around on the screen. Thus, in turn, Cye is dragged around the room. SRI International SRI International's Artificial Intelli