If you've ever fancied yourself to be a bit of a robotics whiz but just never had the opportunity to join NASA (damn their strict entry requirements) then this gadget may fulfil an empty hole within you. The Robot Arm from Red5* is a ‘build it yourself’ robot and provides the perfect chance for you to learn basic robotics.
The wired handset controls the five different motors in the arm and gives you the opportunity to pick up small objects from pens to"¦ pencils. Granted it's not the most practical and useful of devices, but in terms of cool quality, I defy you to find a mate who won't be impressed at what you've put together without a science degree to your name.
The Robotic Arm can pivot 120 degrees and has 300 degree elbow motion which is quite a bit more flex than I have after a gym workout. It also has 180 degree base motion and an LED search light for use at night or for when you just want to add a bit more Bond-like drama to the act of picking up a strawberry.
There is no soldering required which makes it the perfect gift for a teenager or for a grown-up who is still 17 at heart. It is powered by 4 x D size batteries which makes it portable for you to venture outside and experiment on the great outdoors.
If you have a techie buff in your family, or even if you haven't then this is a great way to get people involved with the art of inventing. Who knows what they can create after practice with the Robotic Arm?
Available from Red5*.