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Roomba, the first automatic vacuum available in the
U.S., is an intelligent vacuum that uses robotic technology to deliver
both clean floors and personal time. Roomba uses artificial intelligence
algorithms to clean efficiently and was introduced by iRobot, pioneers in
artificial intelligence who have built numerous products for the U.S.
Department of Defense, the U.S. military, and toy and energy companies.
Thirteen inches in diameter and lighter than your average bowling ball,
this innovative vacuum roams the room devouring dust, dirt, and tidbits
left behind from everyday living.
Setting up your Roomba for its first sashay through the living room is
fairly easy. You'll want to move any clothing, papers, cords, and fragile
items off the floor before you start. You may choose to set up the Virtual
Wall unit, which emits a beam to redirect the Roomba, keeping it out of
unwanted areas. Make sure the rechargeable battery is fired up by checking
the indicator light, set the Roomba in the center of the room, and press
the corresponding button for a small (10 by 12 feet), medium (14 by 16
feet), or large (15 by 20 feet) room. When Roomba starts cleaning, it
travels around the floor in a spiral pattern. When its bumper touches a
wall, Roomba follows the wall for a short time, utilizing its spinning
side brush to move objects away from the wall and into the vacuum's path.
Then Roomba crosses the room in straight lines. It repeats this pattern
until its cleaning time has elapsed, providing maximum cleaning coverage.
Although it may look more like a Frisbee than a vacuum, the Roomba cleans
carpet, wood, linoleum, and tile, and comes with many of the usual vacuum
accoutrements. The agitator brush roll picks up large debris, sucking it
into the removable particle bin with filter. An edge-cleaning brush helps
get into corners and angular areas. All the brushes and compartments can
be removed for regular cleaning maintenance, and the unit comes with two
replacement filters. Additional Virtual Wall units, battery packs, and a
rapid charger can be purchased separately. The Roomba is covered by a
90-day parts and labor warranty.
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