Got a Nintendo DS? Bored of gaming? Well, rather than use it as a wedge for a very wobbly table, why not repurpose your multi-screened console as the brains of a tri-wheeled robot: natrium42 will be happy to sell you the appropriate parts.


Admittedly in its natural form it’s not the prettiest of platforms - a simple smoked perspex platter, a few industrial looking wheels and a fetlock of cabling - but the possibilities for further adaptation are deliciously broad. Control via WiFi either locally or over the internet is just the beginning; apparently it’s very straightforward to add things like webcams and other peripherals.

Creator Alexei Karpenko envisages a thriving fan community adapting the RoboDS and posting guides to generally hackery. You can see a video of his own - purposed as a remote viewing robot - over at his blog.
The natrium42 RoboDS kit costs $119 and ships internationally.







What a great project. This will find a spot in my calendar for rainy days and holidays. Thanks for the coverage — and that video on the other site — my goodness that is just superb. If youhaven’t already go and visit the video.
Glad you like it, Elwyn - if you do make the robot, send us photos!