The main difference is the processor, as we’re putting the top-of-the-line Core i7 processor up against Intel’s server-grade Xeon E5. What kind of difference does this make? Not much. The Core i7 definitely scores lower in multi-core benchmarks …
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Using the Raspberry Pi to create robots is nothing new. But a new product called BrickPi seeks to make building Pi-based robots easier than ever with an add-on board and case that connect the Pi to Lego Mindstorm robot kits.
BrickPi is a Kickstarter project that has blown past its goal of $ 1,889 with more than $ 21,000 raised. The BrickPi add-on board “slides over your Raspberry Pi and connects, controls, and powers Mindstorm motors and sensors, and provides power to the Raspberry Pi.” The add-on board’s firmware is written in Arduino and the code is available online.
The second component of BrickPi is a case with holes that Lego pieces can snap into. Kickstarter contributions of $ 35 will get you the BrickPi itself, while $ 45 or more gets you the BrickPi and the case. Dexter Industries, the company making BrickPi, says deliveries will begin in August 2013.
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There are plenty of Arduino-based robots in the world, but actually building one is a bit tough if you’re not familiar with Arduino programming. But a company called ArcBotics has created an Arduino-based robot called “Sparki” that can be used—and programmed—by anyone. You don’t have to assemble it yourself; the little plastic robot will be ready to go out of the box with an included remote control. To let users create additional functionality, ArcBotics is preparing programming samples and tutorials for controlling the robot’s sensors and actuators.
Sparki is a Kickstarter project (of course), one that has raised nearly $ 14,000 toward its minimum goal of $ 60,000, with 29 days left. The robot will be sold for $ 99 when it’s available, and Kickstarter pledges of $ 99 or more will reserve you a robot with an estimated delivery of October 2013. The robot designs will be released publicly for those who want to build their own.
ArcBotics previously used Kickstarter to raise money for its “Hexy the Hexapod” robot kit, aimed at more advanced users. ArcBotics’ stretch goals for Sparki of $ 100,000, $ 200,000, and $ 300,000 would allow it to build an Android app to control Sparki via Bluetooth, a wireless data radio for communicating with other Sparki robots, and a drag-and-drop block programming environment, respectively.
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Rumors that Microsoft plans to eventually kill the Desktop only increased after the leaked Windows Blue screenshots appeared over the weekend. The upgrade to Windows 8, code-named Windows Blue, is expected to be offered later this year, possibly in late summer. If this is a preview of Windows 9, then Microsoft is sticking firmly to its decision to force people away from the Start button and to deal…
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