How many pieces are in the Robo Technology Set [USB Cable]?

Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] contains 217 pieces.

When was the Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] released?

Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] was released in 2003.

🏛 RCX

Set #9786

Robo Technology Set [USB Cable]

The Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] is an innovative educational tool.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Intermediate build Ideal for teens and adults interested in learning basic robotics and programming concepts through LEGO.
Build: 217 pieces · about 4.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $149.99 list price · 69.1¢ per piece
Availability: Likely retired

★★★☆☆ 3.8 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

Fans appreciate the set's historical significance and its ability to introduce basic robotics concepts. However, some find the technology outdated compared to modern LEGO robotics platforms, and the price is relatively high given the age and capabilities.

$149.99

Best Price

$134.99

You Save

10% OFF

📝 Our Take

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

The Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] is an innovative educational tool. Released in 2003 as part of the RCX theme, this set combines LEGO building with programmable robotics, allowing users to create and control their own creations using a USB connection.

This set is perfect for educators, tech enthusiasts, and LEGO builders interested in robotics. It offers a hands-on learning experience in programming and engineering principles, blending physical construction with digital control.

Skip this if you're looking for a modern, app-controlled robotics experience. Consider newer LEGO MINDSTORMS or SPIKE Prime sets for more advanced features and a wider range of sensors and motors.

✨ New

Ask BlockTalk about this set

AI assistant with full set data

BlockTalk

Hi! I'm BlockTalk, your LEGO expert. Ask me anything about the Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] - building tips, investment potential, comparisons, or anything else!

Try asking:

What programming language is used to control the robot in this set? How does this set compare to modern LEGO MINDSTORMS sets in terms of functionality? What are the limitations of the RCX brick compared to newer programmable bricks? Is the original software required to program this set still readily available?

🧱 Building Experience

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

🧩

217

Pieces

⏱

4.5h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Intermediate

Difficulty

Build Highlights:

Building and programming a functional robot using LEGO Technic elements.
Learning to use sensors and motors to create interactive behaviors.
Exploring the basics of computer programming and robotics control.
Connecting the robot to a computer via USB for programming and control.

📈 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 Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] presents a moderate investment opportunity. As a retired set from the early 2000s, it has a nostalgic appeal and represents an early foray into LEGO robotics. Its value is driven by its relative rarity and the increasing interest in STEM-focused LEGO sets. However, its investment potential is somewhat limited by the availability of newer, more advanced robotics sets. The rising price trend suggests increasing demand, but potential investors should be aware of the niche nature of this product and the competition from modern alternatives. The set's educational focus and the inclusion of electronic components contribute to its collectibility.

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

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LEGO SPIKE Prime Set

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Compared to modern LEGO MINDSTORMS sets, the Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] offers a simpler, more foundational introduction to robotics. While newer sets boast more advanced sensors, motors, and app-based control, this set provides a classic experience for those interested in the history of LEGO robotics. Consider modern MINDSTORMS sets for advanced features, but choose this set for its historical significance and unique building experience.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 217
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 67 unique parts, 222 pieces

LEGO counts 217 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 222; 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

Plate Round 2 x 2...

Part #: 2654 2× Black

Technic Pin with ...

Part #: 2780 12× Black

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 2815 2× Black

Tyre 81.6 x 15 Mo...

Part #: 2902 2× Black

Wheel 61.6 x 13.6...

Part #: 2903 2× White

Sensor, Light wit...

Part #: 2982c01 1× Blue

Brick 2 x 4

Part #: 3001 6× Red

Brick 2 x 2

Part #: 3003 6× Yellow

Dome Hemisphere 4...

Part #: 30208 2× Chrome Gold

Part #: 32001 4× Blue

Technic Pin 3/4

Part #: 32002 8× Dark Gray

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 32039 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle 2 No...

Part #: 32062 4× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 32064b 4× Green

Technic Axle 5

Part #: 32073 2× Light Gray

Technic Bush 1/2 ...

Part #: 32123a 8× Light Gray

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 32250 2× Blue

Plate 1 x 8

Part #: 3460 2× Blue

Wheel with Split ...

Part #: 3482 4× Yellow

Tyre Offset Tread...

Part #: 3483 2× Black

Minifig Head Stan...

Part #: 3626bpr0001 2× Yellow

Tyre 43 x 17

Part #: 3634 2× Black

Technic Gear 8 Tooth

Part #: 3647 3× White

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3648b 2× Red

Technic Gear 40 T...

Part #: 3649 2× Green

Technic Pin witho...

Part #: 3673 12× Light Gray

Part #: 3703 2× Black

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 3703 2× Blue

Technic Axle 4

Part #: 3705 2× Black

Technic Axle 6

Part #: 3706 2× Black

Technic Axle 8

Part #: 3707 2× Black

Technic Axle 12

Part #: 3708 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3709 4× Yellow

Technic Bush

Part #: 3713 20× Light Gray

Technic Axle 10

Part #: 3737 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3738 4× Yellow

Technic Axle Pin ...

Part #: 3749 8× Tan

Plate 2 x 10

Part #: 3832 2× Light Gray

Part #: 3901 1× Brown

Bracket 2 x 2 - 2...

Part #: 3956 2× Blue

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 4185 2× Yellow

Technic Pin 1/2 w...

Part #: 4274 4× Light Gray

Technic Axle 3

Part #: 4519 2× Light Gray

Wire with Brick 2...

Part #: 5306bc020 3× Black

Wire with Brick 2...

Part #: 5306bc036 3× Black

Light Brick 1 x 2...

Part #: 6035 1× White

Hair Ponytail

Part #: 6093 1× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 6536 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 6538b 2× Light Gray

Technic Axle 1.5 ...

Part #: 6553 4× Light Gray

Technic Axle 3 wi...

Part #: 6587 2× Dark Gray

Motor, 9V Mini [O...

Part #: 71427c01 2× Light Gray

Hub, RCX 1.0, wit...

Part #: 76048c01 1× Yellow

Hose, Ribbed 7mm ...

Part #: 78c12 2× Purple

Technic Rubber Be...

Part #: 85544 4× Blue

Sensor, Touch

Part #: 879 2× Light Gray

Hips and Blue Legs

Part #: 970c28 1× Blue

Torso, White Arms...

Part #: 973c27h01 1× White

🧱 Playmat / Test Ma...

Part #: 45533 1× [No Color/Any Color]

🧱 Storage Bin Lid, ...

Part #: 71082 1× Trans-Clear

🧱 Storage Bin, Dact...

Part #: upn0038 1× Bright Green

This set includes a good selection of Technic pins and bushings, useful for building complex mechanisms. The blue rubber belts are also valuable for creating functional drive systems in MOCs.

🛒 Where to Buy

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Target

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$149.99

💎 Notable Parts

Black Technic Pin with Friction Ridges Lengthwise and Center Slots (12x) $1.20

Blue Technic Rubber Belt 24mm (4x) $1.00

Light Gray Technic Bush (20x) $1.00

Est. BrickLink Part Value

$3.20

💡 MOC Potential

🤖 Advanced humanoid robots with complex movements

🚗 Programmable rovers with obstacle avoidance

🌳 Automated plant watering systems

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

No Reddit discussions found for this set.

What YouTubers Say

Based on 9 videos

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

BlockTalk AI

YouTube reviews related to Robo Technology Set [USB Cable] (9786-1) primarily focus on the broader LEGO ecosystem, including Technic, Mindstorms, and Powered Up systems, rather than direct reviews of the specific USB cable itself. The sentiment is largely neutral, with discussions centered on using and restoring older LEGO systems with modern computers and exploring third-party cable solutions.

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Johnny's World • 31.7K views Review

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Andrey Pokhilko • 26.0K views Review

Using old Lego Mindstorms with modern computers

Doug's Devices • 17.6K views Review

Community Sentiment

Based on 9 YouTube reviews

Not enough Reddit data

YouTube

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

Positive

Mixed

Critical

BlockTalk AI Analysis

What the Community Says

6 YouTube reviews

BlockTalk AI Summary

Doug's Devices discusses using older LEGO Mindstorms with modern computers, mentioning a USB IR tower as a potential alternative to serial ports. Technicmaster0 Tutorials explores third-party cables and adapters for LEGO Powered Up, Control+, and Power Functions, indicating a demand for extension wires and adapter solutions within the LEGO community.