Summary of Contents for Sony ERS-110 Operation Manual (primary manual)
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3-867-061-11(1) Entertainment Robot ERS-110 Operation Manual C 1999 by Sony Corporation...
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Entertainment Robot “AIBO” ERS-110 Operation Manual...
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“OPEN-R” is the standard interface for the entertainment robot system that Sony is actively promoting. This interface expands the capability of the entertainment robot through a flexible combination of hardware and interchangeable software to suit various applications. “AIBO” ERS-110 conforms to the OPEN-R version 1 (software specifications).
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“AIBO” is the name given to the Sony entertainment robot. Developed to encourage human and robot interaction, AIBO creates and introduces you to new pleasures and lifestyles. The name “AIBO” is coined from the words “A.I. (Artificial Intelligence),” “eye” and “robot.” In Japanese, the word “aibou” means “partner” or “pal.”...
The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of the station. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call your Sony AIBO Customer Link. Model Number: ERS-110...
Regulatory Information This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
How to use this instruction manual Thank you for purchasing “AIBO” ERS-110. This manual will assist you in building your new relationship with this entertainment robot. Before operating AIBO, please thoroughly read this manual and retain it for future reference. Getting started To get AIBO to move See “Getting started”...
See “List of commands” on page 91, “List of lamps/indicators” on page 95 and “Index” on page 103. If you wonder, “Is it broken?” See “Troubleshooting” on page 86. “AIBO,” the AIBO logo, “OPEN-R” and the OPEN-R logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
Table of Contents Chapter 1 Meet AIBO Introduction to “AIBO” ERS-110... 12 What is an autonomous robot? ... 12 Features of AIBO ... 13 Capabilities of the sound controller ... 16 Commands ... 16 Sound controller features ... 16 Unpacking ... 18 AIBO ...
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Chapter 3 AIBO’s four modes AIBO’s motion modes ... 44 About each motion mode ... 44 The different modes ... 46 Correlation of motion modes ... 47 Chapter 4 Living with AIBO AIBO’s autonomous activities ... 50 Engaging the autonomous mode ... 50 Communicating via touch sensor ...
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Chapter 6 Charging and adjustments Charging the battery pack and adjusting the volume ... 74 Charging the battery pack ... 74 Replacing the battery pack ... 76 Adjusting the volume ... 79 Chapter 7 Additional information Notes on use ... 82 Troubleshooting ...
Introduction to “AIBO” ERS-110 “AIBO” ERS-110 is Sony’s first robot designed for home entertainment. Utilizing advanced technology, this “entertainment robot” expands on the features of robots which have existed only in the realm of science fiction or in special laboratories.
Features of AIBO To realize AIBO’s greatest feature, the autonomous behavior, AIBO has various functions and capabilities. There are also other ways to enjoy AIBO other than as an autonomous robot. A four-legged robot To comfortably coexist with people, AIBO was designed with the four-legged appearance of a dog or cat, animals which usually have long-term, friendly relationships with people.
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Introduction to ERS-110 “AIBO” Natural motions A total of 18 joints (which is technically called “18 degrees of freedom”) enables AIBO to move in a natural, smooth manner. All the joints are cooperatively controlled and allow not only basic movements like walking, sitting or lying down, but also movements like looking around, tilting its head, or waving its paws.
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Introduction to ERS-110 “AIBO” A robot in your home There are still endless possibilities for AIBO and you as partners. From the time of its birth, as it continues to live a life in touch with humans, it will develop as not only a robot, but a companion.
Capabilities of the sound controller AIBO has perfect pitch and can distinguish musical tones. This feature makes it possible to send commands to AIBO through combinations of certain musical tones. This means you can even control AIBO through a musical instrument or by whistling, as long as the combination of notes and pitch are correct.
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• Numeric commands: The entered combination of numbers (command number) is sent as a command such as “Stand up” or “Sit down.” • Single sound commands: Like a musical instrument, individual musical tones are output by the sound controller when the command buttons are pressed.
Unpacking Check to make sure that you have the following items: AIBO Entertainment Robot “AIBO” ERS-110 Supplied accessories Station The station is used to charge AIBO’s batteries, and also serves as AIBO’s home base.
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Sound controller You can control AIBO by sending commands (musical tones). GAME SEND PICKUP RELEASE LOSE TRACK Ball This is AIBO’s special toy. You can also use this for robot soccer. “Memory Stick” and case The “Memory Stick” stores AIBO-ware (AIBO’s operating program).
Index to parts and controls AIBO Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for relating information. 1 Touch sensor 2 Eye lamps 3 Color camera 4 Speaker 5 Mouth 6 Pause button 7 Chest lamp 8 Air intake port 9 Stereo microphone q;...
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1 Touch sensor (52) Allows AIBO to develop tactile relations when a person taps or pets it. 2 Eye lamps (59, 95) Light up in red or green, and indicate AIBO’s emotional state or response to personal contact. 3 Color camera (52) Allows AIBO to search objects and recognize the color, shape and its movement.
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Index to parts and controls Rear of AIBO 1 “Memory Stick” slot (29) 2 “Memory Stick” access lamp (96) Lights up when loading/saving the data of AIBO’s activities in the “Memory Stick.” 3 Battery slot (29, 77) 4 Serial number label The label with your AIBO’s serial number.
Station Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for relating information. 1 POWER indicator 2 MAIN indicator 3 SUB indicator 4 Extra battery slot 1 POWER indicator (30, 74, 97) Lights up in green when the station is turned on. 2 MAIN indicator (75, 97) Lights up/flashes in orange (when AIBO is charging) or green (when AIBO is fully charged), indicating the charging condition of AIBO.
Index to parts and controls Sound controller Refer to the pages indicated in parentheses ( ) for relating information. Face 1 C (ON) button 2 Controller operation indicators PICKUP LOSE 1 C (ON) button (34) Press this button to turn the sound controller on or to cancel the entering of the numeric command.
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4 VOL button Press this button to adjust the volume of the sound controller. You can raise and lower the volume in three levels. 5 SEND button (35) When set for numeric commands, enter the command number and press this button to send a command. When you press this button without entering the command number, the same command as entered just before is sent once more.
Getting started This chapter introduces you to the basic features of AIBO—The autonomous mode and the remote-control mode by using the sound controller. After playing with AIBO, place it on the station.
Preparation First of all, get AIBO ready to move. Preparing AIBO Install the battery pack and insert the “Memory Stick” into AIBO. AIBO has been set to the pause mode at the factory (the pause button on its chest is pressed down). The battery pack is fully charged before it leaves the factory.
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Insert the supplied “Memory Stick” arrow-wise with the label side up. Insert so that only the colored part of the label is visible. Note Do not set the safety switch of the “Memory Stick” to “LOCK” (see page 83). If you do so, you cannot save the data of AIBO’s learning and maturation process.
Preparation Preparing the station The station should always be connected to the wall outlet with the AC adapter. Connect the AC adapter to the station. Connect the AC adapter to the wall outlet. The POWER indicator on the station lights up. POWER indicator...
Preparing the sound controller Insert Alkaline batteries into the sound controller. Open the battery cover. Insert two size AA Alkaline batteries. Matching the + and - on the batteries to the diagram inside the battery compartment, insert the negative (-) end first. Close the battery cover.
Playing for the first time First, enjoy watching AIBO moving around freely. Then make it pose by using the sound controller, and place it on the station. Enjoying AIBO’s autonomous activity AIBO, an autonomous robot, learns and matures from experience. When you purchase AIBO, think of it as having just been born.
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An autonomous robot is capable of moving about on its own without human action. For example, it will look around, lie down or emit tonal phrases. Sometimes when it is tired, it will start sleeping, or will not budge when in a bad mood. These various and free actions are based on its emotions, instincts, learning ability and capacity to mature.
Playing for the first time Performing You can ask AIBO for a particular performance by using the sound controller. Be sure to use the sound controller in a quiet place so that AIBO can hear the musical tones of the controller. Make sure the switch is set to A or B.
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Press the buttons in order, as shown below. AIBO will follow the instructions sent by the sound controller. When using the sound controller, be sure to hold the speaker towards AIBO without covering the speaker with your hands. Press the buttons in order, as shown below. Tap AIBO’s touch sensor or wave your hand in front of its color camera.
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Playing for the first time To pause AIBO immediately Press the pause button on the chest. To reactivate AIBO, place it on the floor in the proper position (see step 5 on page 29) and press the pause button once more.
After playing AIBO lives most of its life on the station, and also charges its battery there. After playing with AIBO, place it on the station. (The station should always be connected to the wall outlet with the AC adapter.) Enjoy AIBO moving on the station if you place it on the station without pressing the pause button.
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After playing Make sure the sound controller is turned on. When the power is on, all the controller lamps light up. To turn the power on, press the Press the buttons in order, as shown below. AIBO lies down and starts saving the data of its activities in the “Memory Stick.”...
Taking AIBO off the station To play with AIBO, pick it up from the station and gently shake it awake. Pick up AIBO from the station, then place it on the floor in the manner shown below. Gently shake it awake. AIBO will wake up in a short time, then start moving autonomously.
When not playing with AIBO This section describes what you should do when you will not be playing with AIBO for some time. When you are going out / going to sleep When not playing with AIBO for a few hours, set it to the sleep mode. The battery discharges slightly while AIBO is sleeping, so place AIBO on the station to keep the battery from running out.
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To wake the sleeping AIBO Pick it up from the station and gently shake it awake (see page 39). Do not shake it on the station as doing so may damage AIBO or the station. The awakened AIBO will move autonomously. To send commands while AIBO is sleeping Gently shake it awake, then send the command.
When not playing with AIBO When going out for long When you are going out for a long time, stop AIBO completely and disconnect the station from the wall outlet. Place AIBO on the station (see page 37). Press the pause button on the chest. AIBO starts saving data of its activities on the “Memory Stick.”...
AIBO’s motion modes The motion mode means AIBO’ s state of activity . The AIBO in motion is usually in the autonomous mode acting on its own fr change the motion mode, you can contr sound contr oller (r emote-contr ol mode) or can deliberately stop its activity (sleep mode).
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Game mode (type of remote-control mode) You can contr ol AIBO to move for ward, backwar d, go left or right, kick a ball or take certain poses. c For details, see Chapter 5 (page 66). Sleep mode You can make it sleep to keep it fr om moving about for a while.
AIBO’s motion modes The different modes By changing the mode, you can move your fr ee-willed AIBO as you wish. You can also keep it sleeping. Sleeping Chasing a ball Sleep Sleep mode Action Autonomous mode Tracking an object Remote-control mode Performing Playing...
Correlation of motion modes You can change the motion mode by sending commands or shaking AIBO. When AIBO is set to the r emote-contr ol mode (the game mode or performance mode) without being sent commands for a while, AIBO automatically turns itself into the autonomous mode.
Living with AIBO — AIBO, an independent roommate Communication is the key to having a fulfilling partnership with AIBO. This section describes the nature of this autonomous robot and gives tips on how to communicate with it. A better understanding of AIBO will give you more enjoyment with it.
AIBO’s autonomous activities AIBO, an autonomous robot, was created to have emotions, instincts, learning ability and the capacity to mature. According to its own judgement, it responds to people and movements, sounds or colors of balls. As AIBO is fully active on its own, it can surprise you with unexpected moves, making it a fascinating companion.
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AIBO’s autonomous activities Changing the sleeping AIBO to autonomous mode Gently shake AIBO awake. If AIBO is sleeping on the station, first move it to a flat surface and place it properly (see page 39), then shake it awake. If AIBO does not respond to commands When set for the numeric commands, press “8”t “0”t “SEND”...
AIBO’s autonomous activities Communicating via touch sensor The touch sensor on its head reacts to three kinds of human touch: Approval, scolding and drawing AIBO’s attention. When touching the sensor, press the mark at the center of its head. • Approving AIBO Gently press the touch sensor for more than two seconds.
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AIBO’s autonomous activities When AIBO cannot get up from a fall AIBO tries to get up by itself when it falls. When it is not able to stand up, it will ask you for help with the robot language. Give it your hand (Fig. 1) and straighten it up (Fig.
A psychological peek into your robot The key to better human-robot communication and better understanding of AIBO’s behavior is to be aware of its emotions, instincts, learning ability and maturational process. Emotions AIBO is sensitive to and can feel emotions such as joy, sadness, anger, surprise, fear and discontent.
Instincts AIBO has four key instincts which strongly contribute to motives of its actions (love instinct, search instinct, movement instinct and recharge instinct). Love instinct: AIBO is naturally inclined to interact with people who will give it care. If left alone for an extended period of time, AIBO will feel an urge to look for someone with whom it may interact or play.
A psychological peek into your robot Education AIBO’s education is closely linked to building its personality, character and intelligence. Like humans and other animals, it learns a great deal from experience. Working its many senses, AIBO gauges what is being communicated, what activities of its own are being reinforced, approved, opposed and ultimately what should be learned.
Body language 18 degrees of freedom (a total of 18 joints) make AIBO’s rich body language possible. AIBO shows its emotions, reactions and will with body languages as shown below. Giving cheers Fear Hanging back “Yes” These movements are just several examples of the emotion shown with AIBO’s body language.
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A psychological peek into your robot AIBO can also show its will to us by using different combinations of body language. Example: When it wishes to play with a ball, AIBO tells us so by doing as below. “Ball” AIBO uses its paws to make the shape of a ball, and shakes both hands up and down, inviting someone to play.
Other robotic expressions Although body language is the most direct way for AIBO to show its emotions or desires, it has other means of expressing itself. When in the autonomous mode, AIBO is always in one robotic state of mind or another. AIBO shows these states by using robot language or flashing its eye lamps.
A psychological peek into your robot Naps and bedtime AIBO takes a nap for 5 to 30 minutes when not communicating with anyone or when tired of playing. It can be woken up by a gentle shake. Please be aware that AIBO can be offended by the interruption to its nap and may wake up in a sour mood.
Playing with remote- controlled AIBO This chapter describes how to control AIBO with commands. When AIBO is set to the performance or game mode, you can control it with the musical tone commands sent by the sound controller or other instruments.
Enjoying AIBO’s performance In the performance mode, AIBO shows you various performances. You can ask for a particular performance by sending commands to AIBO. Furthermore, you can create a new performance by using the ERF-510 AIBO Performer Kit. Setting AIBO to the performance mode When AIBO is sleeping, shake it awake.
Changing the movement style AIBO has several preset styles of movement. For example, it can move like a child or an animal. By changing the style, AIBO will make performances based on the characteristics of each movement style. Make sure AIBO is set to the performance mode. The eye lamps flash.
Enjoying AIBO’s performance Asking AIBO for a particular performance You can ask for pre-programmed performances by sending commands to AIBO. Make sure AIBO is set to the performance mode. The eye lamps flash. Press the buttons listed below to ask for a performance. Stand up Sit down Lay down...
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Enjoying AIBO’s performance To pause AIBO immediately Press the pause button on the chest. To reactivate AIBO, place it on the floor lying down (see step 5 on page 29) and press the pause button once more. lf you do not send commands for a while AIBO will automatically return to the autonomous mode and will start to move after a nap.
Playing games In the game mode, you can control AIBO with commands, and AIBO will do the performance exclusive to this mode. You can make AIBO carry a light object such as a pen, or engage it in a soccer match with another AIBO.
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Send commands to AIBO by pressing the command buttons (listed below). Printed symbol Command button PICK UP RELEASE TRACK LOSE To end the game Hold the sound controller towards AIBO and press the GAME button. AIBO will resume the autonomous mode. To turn the ball tracking function on/off Hold the sound controller towards AIBO and press the 0 button.
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Playing games To pause AIBO immediately Press the pause button on the chest. To reactivate AIBO, place it on the floor lying down (see step 5 on page 29) and press the pause button once more. lf you do not send commands for a while AIBO will automatically return to the autonomous mode and will start to move after a nap.
Controlling two AIBOs When controlling two AIBOs at the same time as in a soccer game, the octave (the command type) of the sound controllers should be different from each other. The command types of AIBO and the sound controller must both be set.
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Playing games For each command type, press the GAME button and set each AIBO to the game mode. The controller lamps flash in green for command type A and in orange for command type B. Send commands to AIBO with the command button (see page 67). GAME SEND GAME...
Playing games with AIBO You can enjoy various games with AIBO in the game mode. Below are some examples. Soccer You can play soccer using two pairs of AIBO and sound controllers. Prepare a goal post by placing books and empty boxes on a flat floor.
Playing games with AIBO Labyrinth Help AIBO escape a maze. Prepare a labyrinth by placing books, blocks, or video-tapes on a flat floor. The path width should be within 8 and 12 in., the radius of a corner within 10 and 12 in. Place AIBO at the starting line and put it in the game mode.
Charging the battery pack and adjusting the volume The battery pack will be automatically charged when AIBO (active or paused) is placed on the station. Be sure to keep the station connected to the wall outlet with the AC power adapter, and place AIBO on the station before you play with it.
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Insert the extra battery pack into the station arrow-wise. Be sure to insert the battery pack until it clicks. The CHARGE indicator lights up in orange and charging begins. When charging only the extra battery The SUB indicator lights up in orange. When charging is completed, it will light up in green.
Charging the battery pack and adjusting the volume Replacing the battery pack AIBO is usually charged on the station with the battery installed. You can also replace AIBO’s empty battery with a fully charged battery pack. Press the pause button, and wait until the chest lamp turns off. AIBO starts saving the data of its activities on the “Memory Stick.”...
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Unlock and remove the battery pack. Install a fully charged battery pack arrow-wise. Be sure to install the battery pack until it clicks. Close the rear cover, then place AIBO on the floor. Note Be sure to place AIBO on the floor as shown above. This will prevent AIBO from moving unexpectedly and being damaged when you press and release the pause button to start it.
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Charging the battery pack and adjusting the volume Press and release the pause button. Pause is canceled, and AIBO starts moving autonomously.
Adjusting the volume There are three volume levels for the musical tones and sound effects that AIBO emits. The volume levels can be adjusted with the sound controller. Make sure the switch is set to A or B. With this setting, you can use the controller with the numeric commands.
Notes on use To prevent AIBO and its accessories from being damaged, observe the following. On handling AIBO • Do not apply excessive force on AIBO with your hand or elbow. • Do not apply strong physical shock to AIBO or drop it. Doing so may erase the saved data on the “Memory Stick”...
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• When carrying or storing the “Memory Stick,” keep it in the supplied case. Notes on use What is “Memory Stick”? The supplied “Memory Stick” corresponds to the entertainment robot “AIBO” ERS-110, and stores AIBO-ware (AIBO’s operating program). “Memory Stick”, “ ” and “ ” are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
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Notes on use On handling the AC adapter • Be sure to use the supplied AC adapter. Using any other adapter may cause damage. • Do not connect the AC adapter to a transformer for tourists traveling abroad. Doing so may cause damage. On handling the battery pack for AIBO •...
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On handling the dry batteries for the sound controller To avoid possible damage from battery leakage or corrosion, observe the following. • Be sure to insert the batteries with the + - polarities matched to the + - marks. • Do not use a new battery with an old one, or use different types of batteries.
Troubleshooting If you experience any of the following difficulties, use this troubleshooting guide to help you remedy the problem. AIBO Symptom AIBO does not react to release of the pause button. AIBO continues to emit a sad melody and does not move when the pause button is released.
Symptom AIBO soon asks for charging even with a fully charged battery. Autonomous mode Symptom AIBO does not respond to commands. AIBO falls asleep all the time. Remedy The battery will last a shorter time when AIBO moves in the game and performance modes.
Troubleshooting Autonomous mode (continued) Symptom AIBO does not chase the supplied ball. Performance mode Symptom AIBO does not respond to commands. Remedy Sometimes AIBO does not feel like chasing the ball. There is also possibility that AIBO has not learned to chase the ball. AIBO is not seeing the ball.
Symptom AIBO moves without giving any commands. Game mode Symptom AIBO does not respond to commands. AIBO moves even if you have not given it commands. AIBO does not chase the ball. Remedy As long as AIBO does not receive specific commands to perform, it will continue to automatically perform in the same style.
Troubleshooting Station Symptom The POWER indicator does not light up. The MAIN indicator flashes. Charging does not end. The SUB indicator flashes. Sound controller Symptom There is no power. There is no sound. The lamps do not light up. Remedy The connection between the station, the AC adapter and the wall outlet is not correct.
List of commands The sound controller can be operated in three ways. The sound controller has three types of operating commands: Numeric commands, single sound commands and game commands. The order of pressing buttons differs depending on the operating commands even when sending the same command.
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List of commands Motion modes in general Set AIBO to the autonomous mode (Page 50) Set AIBO to the game mode (Page 66) Set AIBO to the performance mode (Page 62) Set AIBO to the “charging posture” (Page 37) Set AIBO to the command type A Set AIBO to the command type B Raise the volume one level (Page 79) Lower the volume one level (Page 79)
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Game mode (See page 67) Move forward Stop Move backward Kick with the left foot Kick with the right foot Turn to the left Turn to the right Turn the ball tracking function on/off Express joy Express sadness Pick up an object Release an object List of commands For the numeric...
List of commands Game commands How to use the button Example: “Move forward.” Game mode (See page 67) Move forward Stop Move backward Kick with the left foot Kick with the right foot Turn to the left Turn to the right Hold an object Release an object Turn the ball tracking function on/off...
List of lamps/indicators Lamps on AIBO Eye lamps The eye lamps indicate AIBO’s current mood and command type. Color Lamps Off (Lights up depending on its emotion) Green Flashing slowly Green Flashing two times Green Flashing Flashing green Flashing rapidly In the autonomous mode Color Lamps...
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List of lamps/indicators Chest lamp The chest lamp indicates AIBO’s states of activity. It also indicates AIBO’s internal trouble together with the sound and eye lamps. Lamp AIBO’s condition In motion Flashing slowly Sleeping Flashing Charging posture Pause Flashing rapidly Internal trouble Access lamp for “Memory Stick”...
Indicators on the station You can check the power of the station and the charging status of the batteries. POWER indicator Indicator Condition Power on (page 74) Power off MAIN indicator Indicator Condition Charging AIBO (page 75) Charging completed Flashing Trouble (page 75) SUB indicator Indicator...
List of lamps/indicators Lamps on the sound controller Four lamps light up in two colors and indicate the operating commands and command type of the sound controller, and the status of inputting commands. Lamps Flashing Flashing Each lamp brightens up in order. Operating commands/Condition The power is off.
SONY ELECTRONICS INC. (“SONY”) warrants this Product and its accessories against defects in material or workmanship as follows: 1. PRODUCTS: For a period of one (1) year from the date of purchase, SONY will, at its option, either repair or replace the defective parts and/or the Product (i.e., AIBO, station, sound controller and AC adapter) with new or rebuilt replacements.
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Product. REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER. SONY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXCESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCTS. EXCEPT TO THE...
Service procedure Contact the AIBO Customer Link. Its E-mail address is support@aibosony.com and its toll free number is 1-800-427-2988, 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (P.T.), Monday to Friday except holidays. If the AIBO Customer Link determines that your unit needs repair, follow the procedure described below.
Specification AIBO Movable parts Four legs Each leg: 3 degrees of freedom Head: 3 degrees of freedom Mouth: 1 degree of freedom Tail: 2 degrees of freedom External storage Memory Stick Built-in capabilities CCD color camera Stereo Microphone Speaker Thermometric sensor Distance sensor Infrared Acceleration sensor...
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AC adapter Input 100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 65 W Output 19.5 V DC, 3.3 A Operating temperature 41° F to 95° F (5° C to 35° C) Operating humidity 10 % to 80 % (not condensed) Storage temperature -4°...