How many pieces are in the Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0?

Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0 contains 717 pieces.

When was the Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0 released?

Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0 was released in 2001.

🏛 RCX

Set #3804

Robotics Invention System, Version 2.0

The Robotics Invention System 2.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Intermediate build Perfect for teens and adults interested in robotics and programming basics
Build: 717 pieces · about 4.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $199.99 list price · 27.9¢ per piece
Availability: Likely retired

★★★★☆ 4.2 community rating from 26 ratings

Fans appreciate this set's historical significance and its introduction to basic robotics concepts. However, some find the RCX brick outdated and prefer the advanced features of newer Mindstorms sets.

$199.99

Best Price

$179.99

You Save

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📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

The Robotics Invention System 2.0 is a groundbreaking set that sparked a revolution in LEGO robotics. Released in 2001, this set introduced the programmable RCX brick, allowing builders to create interactive and autonomous robots. It's a fantastic blend of classic LEGO building with early-era coding and robotics principles.

This set is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts and budding engineers interested in robotics and programming. The building experience is rewarding, providing a hands-on introduction to creating functional robots. The set offers a great starting point for exploring the world of LEGO Mindstorms.

Skip this if you're looking for modern Mindstorms features or advanced programming capabilities. The RCX brick is dated compared to newer Mindstorms sets like the Robot Inventor (51515-1), which offers smartphone control and a more user-friendly programming interface.

✨ New

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Try asking:

How does the Robotics Invention System 2.0 compare to modern LEGO Mindstorms sets? What are the programming limitations of the RCX brick? Is this set a good introduction to robotics for beginners? How does the price of this set compare to its original MSRP?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

🧩

717

Pieces

⏱

4.5h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Intermediate

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Programmable RCX brick allows for basic autonomous functions
Introduction to sensor technology (touch and light sensors)
Building a variety of robotic models with different functionalities
Exploring basic programming concepts through the RCX interface

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

↑ Trending up since release

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The Robotics Invention System 2.0 holds moderate investment potential due to its historical significance in the LEGO Mindstorms line. As one of the earliest programmable LEGO sets, it appeals to collectors interested in the evolution of LEGO robotics. While not as sought after as some of the later Mindstorms versions, its age and the nostalgia factor contribute to its value. The rising price trend suggests increasing collector interest. However, the technological limitations of the RCX brick compared to modern Mindstorms sets may limit its long-term appreciation.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Robot Inventor

Mindstorms • 949 pcs

$359.99

Mindstorms Education Base Set

Compared to modern Mindstorms sets like the Robot Inventor (51515-1), the Robotics Invention System 2.0 offers a simpler, more basic approach to robotics. While the newer sets offer more advanced technology and features, the 3804-1 provides a nostalgic and historically significant experience. If you're interested in the history of LEGO robotics, the 3804-1 is a great choice. If you want the latest technology, go for the 51515-1.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 717
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 132 unique parts, 720 pieces

LEGO counts 717 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 720; the two do not always count the same elements, so their totals differ. Spare parts are counted in neither figure.

Missing a piece? Check this set piece by piece, with look-alike colors flagged and element IDs for replacements.

Transmitter Tower...

Part #: 23319c01 1× Dark Gray

Tyre 30 x 10.5 Of...

Part #: 2346 4× Black

Wedge Plate 3 x 6...

Part #: 2419 2× Green

Plate 2 x 2 Corner

Part #: 2420 8× Light Gray

Plate Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 2654 2× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 2730 8× Black

Technic Pin with ...

Part #: 2780 24× Black

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 2815 2× Black

Plate Special 2 x...

Part #: 2817 4× Light Gray

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 2825 2× Light Gray

Technic Engine Cr...

Part #: 2854 2× Light Gray

Tyre 81.6 x 15 Mo...

Part #: 2902 4× Black

Wheel 61.6 x 13.6...

Part #: 2903 4× White

Sensor, Light wit...

Part #: 2982c01 1× Blue

Motor Pulley, 9V ...

Part #: 2983 2× Light Gray

Wheel Rim 24 x 14...

Part #: 2994 2× White

Brick 2 x 4

Part #: 3001 5× Black

Brick 2 x 2

Part #: 3003 20× Black

Brick 1 x 2

Part #: 3004 20× Black

Brick 1 x 2

Part #: 3004 4× Yellow

Plate 2 x 4

Part #: 3020 6× Yellow

Plate 2 x 2

Part #: 3022 8× Light Gray

Plate 2 x 2

Part #: 3022 4× Blue

Plate 2 x 2

Part #: 3022 2× Green

Plate 1 x 2

Part #: 3023 20× Light Gray

Plate 1 x 1

Part #: 3024 8× Light Gray

Plate 6 x 10

Part #: 3033 1× Light Gray

Plate 2 x 8

Part #: 3034 4× Green

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3040b 12× Black

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3040b 4× Yellow

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 32001 4× Light Gray

Technic Pin 3/4

Part #: 32002 16× Dark Gray

Technic Tread Hub

Part #: 32007 4× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32009 4× Yellow

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32013 4× Blue

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32015 4× Light Gray

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32017 4× Light Gray

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 32028 8× Light Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32034 2× Blue

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 32039 2× Light Gray

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 32054 4× Blue

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 32056 4× Light Gray

Technic Axle 2 No...

Part #: 32062 10× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 32064c 4× Green

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32065 4× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32068 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle 5

Part #: 32073 2× Black

Technic Bush 1/2 ...

Part #: 32123a 18× Light Gray

Technic Modular C...

Part #: 32137 4× Trans-Dark Blue

Technic Pin Doubl...

Part #: 32138 2× Yellow

Technic Beam 2 x ...

Part #: 32140 2× Black

Plate 1 x 8

Part #: 3460 8× Light Gray

Wheel with Split ...

Part #: 3482 6× Yellow

Tyre Offset Tread...

Part #: 3483 2× Black

Plate 1 x 3

Part #: 3623 2× Yellow

Tyre 43 x 17

Part #: 3634 2× Black

Technic Gear 8 Tooth

Part #: 3647 6× Light Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3648b 4× Light Gray

Technic Gear 40 T...

Part #: 3649 4× Light Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3650c 4× Light Gray

Brick Sloped Inve...

Part #: 3665 4× Yellow

Brick Sloped Inve...

Part #: 3665 4× Black

Plate 1 x 6

Part #: 3666 10× Light Gray

Technic Pin witho...

Part #: 3673 24× Light Gray

Turntable 2 x 2 P...

Part #: 3679 2× Light Gray

Turntable 2 x 2 P...

Part #: 3680 2× Blue

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3700 4× Yellow

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3700 12× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3701 10× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3701 2× Green

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3702 8× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3703 6× Black

Technic Axle 4

Part #: 3705 7× Black

Technic Axle 6

Part #: 3706 8× Black

Technic Axle 8

Part #: 3707 7× Black

Technic Axle 12

Part #: 3708 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3709 4× Light Gray

Plate 1 x 4

Part #: 3710 10× Light Gray

Technic Bush

Part #: 3713 40× Light Gray

Technic Steering ...

Part #: 3736 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle 10

Part #: 3737 4× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3738 8× Light Gray

Technic Gear Rack...

Part #: 3743 4× Light Gray

Brick Sloped Inve...

Part #: 3747a 4× Black

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 3749 16× Light Gray

Plate 2 x 10

Part #: 3832 6× Light Gray

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3894 8× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3895 6× Black

Brick Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 3941 8× Black

Bracket 2 x 2 - 2...

Part #: 3956 2× Light Gray

Dish 4 x 4 Invert...

Part #: 3960 2× White

Cable, Fiber Opti...

Part #: 40002c25 1× Trans-Clear

Technic Gear 16 T...

Part #: 4019 4× Light Gray

Plate Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 4032a 2× White

Plate Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 4032a 2× Blue

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 4085c 2× Black

CD-Rom, for 3804 ...

Part #: 4142876 1× [No Color/Any Color]

Playmat, Test Mat...

Part #: 4153678 1× [No Color/Any Color]

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 4185 4× Light Gray

Arm Grab Jaw Hold...

Part #: 4220 2× Yellow

Arm Grab Jaw

Part #: 4221 4× Black

Technic Pin 1/2 w...

Part #: 4274 8× Light Gray

Hinge Plate 1 x 2...

Part #: 4275b 2× Black

Plate 1 x 10

Part #: 4477 6× Light Gray

Technic Axle 3

Part #: 4519 3× Black

Hinge Tile 1 x 2 ...

Part #: 4531 2× Black

Cone 1 x 1 [No To...

Part #: 4589 2× Yellow

Cone 1 x 1 [No To...

Part #: 4589 2× White

Technic Worm Gear

Part #: 4716 2× Black

Wire with Brick 2...

Part #: 5306bc020 4× Black

Wire with Brick 2...

Part #: 5306bc162 2× Black

Brick Separator v1.0

Part #: 6007 1× Dark Gray

Plate Special 1 x...

Part #: 6019 2× Black

Arm Piece with Pi...

Part #: 6048a 2× Black

Creature Body Par...

Part #: 6133 2× Trans-Neon Orange

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× White

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× Blue

Plate Round 1 x 1...

Part #: 6141 2× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 6536 6× Light Gray

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 6538b 4× Light Gray

Technic Axle 1.5 ...

Part #: 6553 2× Light Gray

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 6558 8× Black

Technic Gear Diff...

Part #: 6573 1× Dark Gray

Technic Cam

Part #: 6575 2× Light Gray

Tyre 30.4 x 14 VR

Part #: 6578 2× Black

Technic Axle 3 wi...

Part #: 6587 2× Dark Gray

Technic Gear 12 T...

Part #: 6589 5× Light Gray

Tyre 49.6 x 28 VR

Part #: 6594 2× Black

Wheel 49.6 x 28 V...

Part #: 6595 2× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 6629 4× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 6632 4× Light Gray

Tread Large, Tech...

Part #: 71372 2× Black

Motor, 9V Mini [O...

Part #: 71427c01 2× Light Gray

Rubber Band Small...

Part #: 71509 4× Black

Hose Rigid 3mm D....

Part #: 75c19 2× Yellow

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 76019 1× White

Hose, Ribbed 7mm ...

Part #: 78c09 4× Black

Hose, Ribbed 7mm ...

Part #: 78c09 4× Dark Turquoise

Hose, Ribbed 7mm ...

Part #: 78c12 4× Purple

Rubber Belt Small...

Part #: 85543 3× White

Technic Rubber Be...

Part #: 85545 3× Blue

Technic Rubber Be...

Part #: 85546 3× Yellow

Sensor, Touch

Part #: 879 2× Light Gray

Hub, RCX 2.0, No ...

Part #: 884c 1× Yellow

The set features a good selection of Technic parts, especially pins and bushes, useful for creating functional mechanisms. The abundance of light gray elements can be beneficial for builders looking to expand their Technic collection.

🛒 Where to Buy

eBay

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Walmart

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$189.99

Target

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$199.99

💎 Notable Parts

Light Gray Technic Bush (40x) $2.00

Light Gray Technic Pin without Friction Ridges Lengthwise (24x) $1.20

Black Technic Brick 1 x 8 [7 Pin Holes] (8x) $0.80

Black Technic Brick 1 x 10 [9 Pin Holes] (8x) $0.80

Est. BrickLink Part Value

$4.80

💡 MOC Potential

🤖 Advanced walking robots with obstacle avoidance

🚗 Autonomous vehicles with sensor-based navigation

🏛 Automated LEGO sorting machine

🌳 Robotic plant watering system

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

No Reddit discussions found for this set.

What YouTubers Say

Based on 7 videos

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

BlockTalk AI

Reviews of the LEGO Mindstorms Robotics Invention System Version 2.0 (3804-1) are largely neutral, often focusing on unboxing, demonstrating older versions, or providing buying advice for used sets. Reviewers like BatteryPoweredBricks share their experiences acquiring new and used sets, highlighting the uncertainty of buying used LEGO Mindstorms online.

Lego Mindstorms Review - Part 2 - RUG Community Robot Review

rugcommunity • 14.6K views Review

PSA buying used Lego Mindstorms - How not to get hosed

BatteryPoweredBricks • 4.2K views Review

Computer Chronicles: LEGO MINDSTORMS

Tech Perspectives • 2.8K views Review

Community Sentiment

Based on 7 YouTube reviews

Not enough Reddit data

YouTube

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

Positive

Mixed

Critical

BlockTalk AI Analysis

What the Community Says

5 YouTube reviews

BlockTalk AI Summary

Doug's Devices discusses using older LEGO Mindstorms with modern computers, mentioning the potential need for a USB IR tower due to serial port limitations. Nonsense Wars offers reviews of both the Robotics Invention System 2.0 and the Ultimate Builders Set, encouraging viewers to like and subscribe for more content.