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Hacker Groups |
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Hacker Groups |
Over the years we've run Hacker's groups in both Computers and Electronics. These were conducted by various members who volunteered to do the job when there was sufficient interest from the membership at large in those topics. With computers galore available at every flea market and the prices of new computers continuing to fall, interest in delving into the innards of computers has dwindled. So too has the interest in building hardware from scratch when it's so plentiful at flea markets and prices have dropped for new equipment too. To be sure, we still run seminars in topics that intrigue members from time to time. Some of these have included tutorials in using antenna modeling software, APRS, packet operations, logging software, antenna construction, etc.
If you'd like to see any of these activities continue, we need some interest on the part of the membership and more importantly from groups of members who all want to tackle the subject. There's plenty of expertise in the club to find a person willing to lead the group, the problem is finding enough people with an interest in any given topic.
Computer Hackers
Was an open format workshop for FARA members. Concentrated on making members feel good about using computers. Delved into the mysteries of DOS, Windows, application packages, hardware configuration, expansion, and simple troubleshooting. We've been through hands-on upgrades and complete rebuilds of members' machines, installed more RAM, CD ROM drives, large format disk drives, sound cards, tape drives, and modems. We've also assembled complete systems from components, upgraded software through Windows XP, and installed various utility software. We also, of course delved into the mysteries of using computers in ham radio, including packet and other digital modes.
Counter clockwise, Tom (N1TB), Colin (W1TJW) concentrate on getting
N1TB's Windows 98 software reinstalled after a crash.Norm (KC1IF) observing
both operations going on. Saul (K1BI) gives Charlie (K1CB) a hand with getting
a new internal modem installed.
The Electronics Hackers Group was conducted for FARA members on an ad hoc basis. Past projects have included a handheld 2m DF beam, a 2m "mini-brick" amplifier for handhelds, and a NiCd battery charger controller, etc. Group has typically met only when a project was selected. Participants were required to pay for materials which were bought in bulk. Cost of each project was dependent on the number of people who sign up to participate. Construction meetings were usually arranged at one of the Woods Hole Institute Labs.
Updated: 10/15/2007
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