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Pre-Workshop FAQ

Q: what should I bring ?

A: - Your laptop (desktops are fine too if you're willing to schlepp them...)

- If you have a soldering iron that you like please bring it. We do have some, but they're not great.

- If you already have an interface that you want to continue to work with, bring that.

- If applicable, any project-specific parts, devices, tools that you want to play with. We have many electronic components, but only basic mechanical stuff.

- If you want to work with a gamepad, either let us know or bring one (also see below at the interface options)

Q: What if I can't bring a computer ?

A: Let us know! Soon!! We'll see what we can do...

Q: Is my computer fast enough ?

A: If it is less than 5 years old chances are good. Otherwise get in touch with us and we'll see

Q: What are the interface options ?

A: Everyone is invited to use the gluion for sensor explorations, but for those who want to work with something that they can take home after the workshop we decided to offer a cheaper alternative. A gamepad can be hacked to offer a few analog and digitals inputs to connect some simple sensors. This is sufficient to learn the basic sensor functionality and for many it is even enough for their actual projects. If you opt for this alternative, let us know if you bring your own gamepad or if we should provide one (we don't stock them, so we have to know in advance)

Between the gluion and the gamepad there are about two dozen interface alternatives, some of which are listed here. You are free to pick any of them but you have to provide it yourself.

Q: I'm still not sure which interface to use.

A: We suggest to work with the gluion and then decide afterwards. Apart from the gamepads, some will bring their own interfaces, so you have more options to have a closer look at.

According to the registrations we will have the following interfaces in the pool: Junxion Box, Phidgets, Doepfer?

Q: I want to buy the gamead myself - which one should I get ?

A: A cheap one is absolutely sufficient. Just make sure it has the familiar 2 analog thumbsticks, the very cheapest only have buttons. Also, your gamepad should have a USB connection, some very old ones connect to the extinct PC game port.

For reference, I just bought an "Impact Dual Analog Rumble Pad" at Saturn for 12.95

If you are interested in wireless operation you can get wireless gamepads starting from 35.00, however I have no experience with current models. The last time I tried one (Saitek P3000 I think) there were reliability problems even over short distances.

Q: Can you provide accommodation ?

A: Nothing official has been set up, but we could probably arrange something private or help you find a hotel. Get in touch! Soon!!