MAIN Toy Reviews EyeClops Bionic Eye

EyeClops Bionic Eye

EyeClops Bionic Eye; JAKKS Pacific, Recommended age 6+, retail price $39.99 to $49.99

Ever wonder what a sesame seed looks like when it's magnified 200 times? How about a feather, a bug, a blade of grass, or a dollar bill? Even better, what if you could watch it right on your television, no need for a microscope or tiny glass slides?

Well, the EyeClops, is a powerful electronic magnifier that plugs into your TV allowing you to view practically anything from a new perspective.

Holy bionic eye, Batman! I have to say this is one of the coolest toys to hit the market.. The open-ended learning possibilities are endless. This is great for any kid who is into science, investigating the environment, or bugs. Any curious kid is going to love this, and it opens the door for further investigation and discovery.

The immediate response from my kids was "Wow!". (Well, there were a few responses of, "oh yuck!", too, but they were usually followed by a "Wow!".) The lens magnification is fixed at 200x zoom, and is not adjustable, but it is more than enough. Of course, the larger the television screen, the larger the image.

Using EyeClops couldn't be easier - just attach the I.R.I.S. lens to the hand held EyeClops, put in 5 AA batteries (not included), plug cord into T.V., switch it on, and explore. There is no software required. It is not designed for computer use, but you can purchase a special video card with RCA inputs so it will work with your PC.

The cord from T.V. to EyeClops is about 11½ feet long. For its purpose that is sufficient. It also comes with a base for hands-free use, an observation dish and tube. Currently there is no AC adapter, but I have heard it is in the works.

I am not surprised that the EyeClops has won a number of awards, and a coveted spot on many of the hot toy lists. It compels children to explore their innate curiosity about the world around them. For adults, it is loads of fun to see the kids go wild for EyeClops.

About the Author: Mary Rose is a Mommy, a writer and an early childhood educator who believes in learning through play and the value of good toys.