FAQ
TL;DR: Community-shared TI eStore codes cut select kits by up to 67% (EVALBOT $150→$50); “I have a limited supply of TI eStore discount codes.” [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
Why it matters: If you’re hunting budget eval kits, this thread shows what worked, how to request, and when codes expired.
Quick Facts
- Initial discounts: Chronos $50→$25, EVALBOT $150→$50, Piccolo controlSTICK $35→$25. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
- Delivery method: requests answered via site email (not PM); check junk mail. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659469]
- Availability snapshot: “I still have 5 or so of the EVALBOT codes” on Aug 16, 2011. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659465]
- Status update: “Looks like these are expired” on Mar 29, 2012. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659498]
- Follow-on deal: Chronos listed at $24.50 via TI Deals link on Apr 4, 2012. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659499]
What exactly were the TI eStore discounts in this thread?
Ben offered discount codes for three TI evaluation kits: MSP430 ez430‑Chronos watch, Stellaris EVALBOT, and C2000 Piccolo F28027 USB controlSTICK, with example prices of $25, $50, and $25 respectively. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
How did people request and receive a discount code?
Users posted interest, and Ben sent codes using the site’s profile contact form (email), not an internal PM system. He advised checking junk mail if you didn’t see it. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659469]
Were the codes time-limited or did they expire?
Yes. Although early cards showed no visible expiry, Ben later confirmed, “Looks like these are expired,” on March 29, 2012. Treat older codes as invalid. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659498]
Did the codes actually work for buyers?
Yes. Joshua reported, “I received the codes, they seem to have worked,” on September 7, 2011. This confirms real-world redemption success. [Elektroda, Joshua Newman, post #21659473]
How many EVALBOT codes were available at one point?
On August 16, 2011, Ben said he still had “5 or so” EVALBOT codes, and plenty of others. This indicates limited but ongoing availability then. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659465]
Is there anywhere else to find Chronos discounts mentioned here?
Yes. On April 4, 2012, Ben shared a TI Deals link noting Chronos at $24.50 via Digi-Key, providing a post-expiry alternative. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659499]
What is the MSP430 ez430‑Chronos?
It’s a Texas Instruments wireless watch evaluation tool referenced in the thread as a discounted item for MSP430 experimentation and demos. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
What is the Stellaris EVALBOT?
It’s a TI Stellaris evaluation robot kit listed here with a discount to $50, used for embedded development and motion demos. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
What is the C2000 Piccolo F28027 USB controlSTICK?
A compact USB plug‑in evaluation module for TI’s C2000 Piccolo MCU family, offered in this thread at $25 for entry‑level control projects. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659456]
Were requests still being fulfilled late in 2011?
Yes. Ben periodically resurfaced to say he had more codes and was “caught up” on sending them, through November and December 2011. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659493]
How do I replicate the request process from this thread?
- Post your interest specifying the kit.
- Watch for an email sent via your forum profile contact form.
- Check your spam folder and reply to confirm receipt.
“By PM I mean email... Check your junk email.” [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659469]
Any sign these deals continued into 2012?
Codes expired by March 29, 2012, but a new deal appeared April 4, 2012 for Chronos at $24.50, showing shifting opportunities after expiry. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659499]
What if I try an old code today and it fails?
Failure is expected. The thread’s owner stated the codes had expired by March 29, 2012. Seek current promotions instead. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659498]
What’s a realistic discount range based on this thread?
Discounts hit 50% on Chronos and about 67% on EVALBOT during 2011. One user called it “fast, friendly and helpful.” [Elektroda, Toomas Pruuden, post #21659475]
Did anyone report difficulty receiving codes?
Yes. Ben noted confusion about PMs and clarified that the site lacks private messaging; emails might land in junk folders. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659469]
What’s the last confirmed status from the thread owner?
Final status: codes expired as of March 29, 2012. Look for alternative deals like the April 4, 2012 Chronos sale. [Elektroda, Ben, post #21659498]
It's very practical for me that I stumbled across this topic before I bought it for the normal price in the store! 