Can the RCX be programmed without the original software?

Yes. Enthusiasts created several alternatives, including text-based languages and replacement firmware, which is one reason the RCX stayed popular long after newer systems appeared.

How many pieces are in Robotics Invention System 2.0?

Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0 (3804-1) from 2001 contains 720 pieces, slightly fewer than Version 1.0 (737) and Version 1.5 (731).

Which set is a good starting point for RCX collectors?

Any edition of the Robotics Invention System contains the RCX brick, motors and sensors. The expansion packs need one of those kits to be useful, so the parts lists are worth checking before buying second-hand.

RCX

Sets: 22
Since: 1998
Newest set: 2008

The RCX was the first programmable brick sold under the Mindstorms name. This theme brings together 22 sets from 1998 to 2008.

Sets per decade

Sets per year

22 sets

2000s

1990s

About RCX

Born in a research lab

The idea of a brick that could run its own program grew out of a collaboration with the MIT Media Lab. The result was the RCX, short for Robotic Command Explorer: a chunky yellow unit with three sensor inputs, three motor outputs, a small LCD and a battery compartment. Programs were written on a PC and beamed to the brick through an infrared tower. Hobbyists quickly went further than the official software, writing their own languages and replacement firmware, and that community work is part of why the RCX is still remembered fondly.

One kit, three editions

The core product was the Robotics Invention System. Version 1.0 (9719-1) from 1998 is the largest set here with 737 pieces. Version 1.5 (9747-1) followed a year later with 731 pieces, and Version 2.0 (3804-1) arrived in 2001 with 720 pieces and a USB infrared tower in place of the earlier serial one. Each edition centred on the same combination of two motors, two touch sensors, a light sensor and the RCX itself, with a mix of studded bricks and Technic parts.

Expansion packs and a camera

Several add-ons gave RCX owners new projects. Extreme Creatures (9732-1, 1998, 149 pieces) and Exploration Mars (9736-1, 1999, 158 pieces) came with parts and building ideas around a theme, while the Ultimate Builders Set (3800-1, 2001) supplied 322 extra pieces. Vision Command [RCX Digital Colour Camera] (9731-1) from 2000 added a camera so robots could respond to movement and colour. The Robotics Discovery Set (9735-1, 390 pieces) took a different approach, with a simpler programmable brick that worked without a computer.

FAQ

Can the RCX be programmed without the original software?: Yes. Enthusiasts created several alternatives, including text-based languages and replacement firmware, which is one reason the RCX stayed popular long after newer systems appeared.
How many pieces are in Robotics Invention System 2.0?: Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0 (3804-1) from 2001 contains 720 pieces, slightly fewer than Version 1.0 (737) and Version 1.5 (731).
Which set is a good starting point for RCX collectors?: Any edition of the Robotics Invention System contains the RCX brick, motors and sensors. The expansion packs need one of those kits to be useful, so the parts lists are worth checking before buying second-hand.