Can You Convert a Leapster to an L Max?
Leapster handheld gaming systems have become popular with kids because of the recognizable characters in their games. But parents love them as well because every game has an educational aspect to it. The popularity of the Leapfrog brand has led it to develop multiple versions of the Leapster system, the latest of which is the L-Max. The L-Max has some expanded features, but it is a wholly separate system from the original Leapster. Unfortunately, if you own a Leapster, you cannot upgrade it to the L-Max; you must buy the L-Max separately if you want its expanded capabilities. But by following these steps, you can navigate the shopping decision-making process and determine which Leapfrog system is right for your child.
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Instructions
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Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the original Leapster. As the oldest version of the handheld device, it is also the least expensive. Because it has been around since 2004 and other versions have been introduced since then, it is also possible to find used versions of the original Leapster for very low prices. There are also two unique games programmed into the original Leapster which are not included in the other models; if you child specifically enjoys or prefers either or both of these games, that may be an advantage. However, the original Leapster has the most restricted functionality of all the models. It cannot download online content or connect to a larger TV, and since it is now essentially obsolete, Leapfrog may not develop any more accessories for the system.
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Weigh the pros and cons of the L-Max system. It is the newest device in the Leapster family, but also the most expensive. It is slightly slimmer in design, which make may it easier to use for some children. The screen on the unit is also slightly larger. The pre-installed games are different on the L-Max, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on whether your children like them. The biggest difference between the L-Max and the Leapster is that the L-Max can be connected to a larger television. When playing in this mode, every game is different than when it is played on the handheld device alone. The images on the small screen are also different from those on the large screen, which can help young children improve their hand-eye coordination and prepare them for using more sophisticated computers.
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Think about the other Leapfrog system, the Leapster 2. This system is more expensive than the original Leapster but cheaper than the L-Max. It cannot connect to a larger TV, but it is compatible with the Leapfrog Learning Path, a collection of online content. If you have an Internet-connected home computer, you can connect the Leapster 2 to it and download Leapfrog Learning Path content such as new games, customized performance reports for parents and new content for older games. Because of this expanded functionality, though, the Leapster 2 does require an SD memory card, which is sold separately.
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Make a chart of the pros and cons if you're having trouble deciding or keeping the attributes of each system straight in your head.
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Comparison shop for the system you ultimately decide to buy. Prices on all of the LeapFrog devices vary at retail and online outlets, although some of the best prices can be found among online sellers. If you decide to buy an original Leapfrog and don't mind buying a used one, you may be able to find an excellent deal by shopping on online auction sites or classified ad sites.
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Tips & Warnings
All LeapFrog game cartridges will work on all LeapFrog devices. LeapFrog systems are designed for children in preschool through fourth grade.
