Hive13

We had 5 attendees (no including myself) and we tinkered with the first two chapters of Think Python and learned about comments, variables, values, types, orders of operation, and more.  We also discovered that print is a function in python 3.0, and that printing the value of a variable can yield slightly different results than the raw output.  also, we discovered that print is a function in python 3.0

If you couldn’t make it this week and are worried about falling behind, have no fear.  We can recap last week’s progress before we proceed to chapter 3.  So don’t be shy!

Hodapp repositioned the signal generator box to the bar area and then with some help from ChrisA and I connected a network cable to the bar area.  Then through various hackish methods we used a crossover cable and a spare network card to hook the webcam directly to the computer.  In any case our webcam has returned from the dead.

Direct link to the webcam image here.

Since I am horrible at trying to talk thinks up, I will just copy in ChrisA’s description from the mailing list:

“This is outright theft of the hacklab.to “Python Newbie Night” event. One night a week (Wed. @7pm) we get together with electronic copies of “think python”, talk about a chapter, then write some code. We may skip around depending on the skill levels of those who are present. If the class format takes off we can do other languages as well (say java and C++). I would like to invite non-coders and non-members to the class, so tell your friends and relatives!” -ChrisA

So this Wednesday, September 9, 2009, we are having our first Python learning night at the Hive.  Bring yourself, a laptop and a friend.

More details on the wiki page: Here

Jim, our resident CNC guy, has been talking about EnterTRAINment for a couple weeks now and has set down a date for us to go up to check the place out.

EnterTRAINment is a massive model train installation and work group.  It is like a hackerspace for train enthusiasts.  This weekend they are holding a kind of open house event where you can take tours behind the scenes and see their workshop area.

Check out the event’s wiki page for extended details and also make a reply on the mailing list if you wish to attend.

This week we will be reviewing the status of our insurance, the 1023 form, the status of the internet for the space, various events, and more.

After the meeting Craig will be giving a quick tutorial on how to use Blender to make objects we can print with the makerbot.  Bring your laptop with Blender installed if you wish to participate.

Weekly Meeting Link

Blender Tutorial Session Link

Welcome to the 1st ever Hive13 Contest challenge!

The mission, if you choose to accept it, is to create a unique passcode system.  This can be mechanical, electronical or purely software.  It has to reach some type of “unlock” state or goal.  This can be to play a song, turn on a green light or actually unlock something.

The contest deadline is September 29th after the Tuesday meeting.  After the meeting you can demo your locking mechanism.  Let the most creative lock win!

More details on the wiki.