Snap Circuits Upgrade Kit SC-300 to SCM-400

These PIC / PicAxe based kits add a new dimension to the standard snap kits - making the link into Micro-controllers and programming. There are other cool products from other manufacturers that use the same chip and have software compatibility so that you can go even further than Elenco intended! Take a look at PIC Logicator. It is not a totally brain-free integration, but not far off. That adds flow charts and loads of other cool learning opportunities, all adding to the value of your existing investment.

The picture shows many extra pieces that are not in the kit. The written description is also very vague. My guess is that the picture is accurate once you combine the kit with your base set...really misleading, not to mention -expensive- for what you get. Please beware of any picture showing more than 9 items.My packing slip:1.) 4-Snap Wire2.) Battery Holder (now we have 3???)3.) NPN Transistor4.) 1k Resistor5.) 10k Resistor6.) IC (The only real extra item) may be $2 at radio shack7.) CD8.) USB Cable9.) USB to snaps Cable

I saw my grand kids purchased a lower level model- so Grandpa had to have the SUPER kit with this micro controller.. Talk about COOL! Of course I have the smartest grand kids.I don't recommend this unless the kiddos can follow pictorial instructions and ask before putting in the batteries. Teach them not to pull the parts apart by the component wires. I've had to fix a few already.Dealer was very prompt and courteous!

My son loves all the snap circuit products and has spent hours quietly putting them together and proudly showing off the final product. This upgrade allowed him to hack the snap circuit rover and make it a robot for the science fair.

Brought original kit last Christmas and added to it this year. Grandson that 9 years old loves this. Would recommend this for any child of at least 7 years of age.

Recommended to older grade school kids who have interest in electronics, programming, how devices work etc. Good upgrade at a decent price with good instructional documents on the CD. Opens up a new dimension for snap circuit users/learners.