From: utzoo!decvax!harpo!ihps3!ixn5c!pcl
Newsgroups: net.misc
Title: Home robots now available, $7995
Article-I.D.: ixn5c.230
Posted: Thu Sep  2 13:57:07 1982
Received: Sun Sep  5 03:36:48 1982


We just received the latest issue of the catalogue from Hammacher
Schlemmer (147 East 57th St., NY NY 10022), a general-merchandise
mail-order company.  (Their front cover proclaims SINCE 1848 "New
York's most famous store since before the Civil War".)

I thought the net might be interested in one of the
items pictured on their front cover, and described as follows:

"JENUS - THE HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER HOME ROBOT."

Combines the functions of security sentinel, house cleaner and personal
butler into one dependable unit - including its own on-board computer. 
Jenus can be easily programmed to monitor activities inside and outside
the home.  Built-in sensors will detect the presence of heat, smoke,
fire or carbon gas [sic - PCL], as well as detect the presence of an
intruder or an attempted forced entry.  In either emergency situation,
Jenus will approach the danger, emit a high decibel warning siren and
transmit a pre-recorded message to local policy or fire departments
(provided you have a home computer or a compatible telephone dialing
device with an established connection to the police or fire departments)
or to any other pre-arranged number.  Comes equipped with built-in vacuum
cleaner and is maneuverable completely under its own power.  A built-sensing
[sic - PCL] device guides Jenus around children, furniture and moving
pets.  Will perform a variety of additional household chores at the push
of a button - even greet guests at the door and offer them drinks.  Can
be programmed with an unlimited vocabulary.  Its face is depicted in a
cathode ray tube screen that simulates facial movements.  Operates on
two re-chargeable 12-volt, 33 amp gel cell batteries.  Automatically
senses when batteries are running low and plugs into its personal
electric wall outlet to re-energize.  The on-board computer integrates
with and expands the capability of, any home computer.  Jenus is totally
self-sufficient; operates without human supervision.  Jenus is 48" high.
EXCLUSIVELY OURS.
F8239Y.(Exp.)....................................................7995.00

Allow 10 to 12 weeks for delivery.  For further information on all
functions performed by JENUS write to us or call (212) 421-8817.

---------------

The picture on the front shows a cylindrical robot, with one arm.  There
is a control panel just below the "face", with ~20 labeled keys.  The
arm ends in a clamp, which appears shaped to fit the vacuum cleaner
attachment protruding from the base.

Be the first on your block!

				Paul Lustgarten
				Bell Labs - Indian Hill South