Once programmed with the help of Map-N-Zap's macro-based task utility, Cye can move from its recharger (home base) to any point on the user-specified map-- at any preprogrammed time or interval. Attach the optional wagon ($89), and you can have Cye bring you a soda and snack from the kitchen. Attach the $89 vacuum arm to your stand-up vacuum and have Cye vacuum your area rug (Probotics will soon be shipping a wireless vacuum. This will eliminate the use of tangly wires).

The robot was a blast to program and work with. In fact, I became rather fond of the little guy. Onlookers marveled as he weaved his way around the sofas and chairs we set up in our mock ZDTV living room. However, the mapping process didn't always go smoothly. Cye had occasional trouble docking with its home base and would oftentimes choose an irrational path from point A to B. And although this robot can vacuum your carpet, it doesn't come close to what a human can do. Nevertheless, Cye and its remarkable (and easy to use) Map-N-Zap software are fully functional and entertaining team. Remember too, Cye's inventor Henry Thorne has kept his source code open, meaning a host of third-party accessories, as well as new program developers, will broaden Cye's robotic horizon.

The $695 price tag may seem a bit high for such a little robot, but in an industry where robots cost in the thousands (see Sony's Aibo), this may seem like a bargain to some. Plus, Probotics has a robust support system. (Just look at its website.) We're giving Cye four stars. (How can you deny this little thing.) Yes, it's expensive and the robot honestly doesn't do that much, but the implementation of the technology coupled with Cye's potential warrants the rating.



Company: Probotics, Inc.
Telephone: 412.322.6005
Price: $695; optional cart $89; optional vacuum arm $89
Availability: Now
Category: Robotics
Platform: Windows
Specs: Weight: 9 lbs., Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 5 inches, Towing Force: 7 lbs., Energy Capacity: run time = 24 hours - standing, 5 hours - motion, 1 hour  towing, recharge time = 5 hours, Dead-reckoning: less than 5 degrees of heading error/50 feet of travel, Radio Range: 100 feet through walls, 300 feet line of site, Includes: Map-N-Zap software on CD-ROM, manual, PC radio pod, Cye Home Base, Guarantee: 30 days no questions asked, Warranty: 1 year parts and labor
System Requirements: 133-MHz Pentium WIN98, one spare COM port with DB-9 receptacle, 16- bit color depth