Welcome
As we kick off a new semester, we’re thrilled to share some exciting developments and updates with you. We’ve been working hard to make the FabLab an even more valuable space for our users.
A Quick Throwback
Before we dive into what’s new, let’s take a moment to reflect on our journey together. The image below, captured in 2018, shows the humble beginnings of the FabLab – a modest corner barely spacious enough for a handful of users and their projects.
The achievements we’ve made as a community are a testament to our combined creativity, innovation, and hard work. As we look at how far we’ve come, let’s carry this spirit forward into an even brighter future.
What’s New This Semester?
Fresh Faces on Our Team
We’re delighted to welcome Sarah Lin, Justin Wootton, and Greg Gardener to the FabLab team. With a wealth of engineering knowledge between them, they’re eager to assist with your projects and share their expertise. Let’s make them feel at home!
Electronics Bench and Training Modules
We’ve set up an all-new soldering and electronics bench. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, we’ve got you covered.
Updated Credit System
We’ve reworked our credit costs and allocations to reflect the real-world value of running our equipment. 1 credit is now approximately $1 AUD. This change is designed to help our users better understand the costs associated with prototyping and be more competitive moving into industry.
Credit Discounts
In recognition of efficient resource use, we will now be introducing credit discounts. This initiative will include benefits like reduced costs for 3D printing during off-peak hours, such as overnight or over the weekend.
Low Balance Notifications
You will now be notified when your credit balance is running low.
Feedback That Shapes Us
A huge thank you to everyone who participated in last year’s survey. Your feedback has been invaluable, and we’re actively working on addressing the issues highlighted, especially regarding the inconveniences of our equipment booking system.
Bringing more equipment online is also one of our top priorities. However, balancing expansion while maintaining quality support with fixed resources is no trivial task. Rest assured we are committed to making the lab better each semester and considering only the best of solutions.
Your Patience is Appreciated
We acknowledge there have been some delays in bringing our new team members on board, impacting booking availability. Your patience during this is greatly appreciated. We’re doing everything possible to streamline the process and return to full capacity.
For Our New Users
Please visit the faq page and induction and training processes on our wiki. This is your go-to guide for getting started in the FabLab.
For Our Continuing Users
Credit Allocations:
- AMME Thesis and HDR Users: Credits have been assigned to you automatically.
- Unit of Study Users: Please ask your tutor or course coordinator to add you to the credit group allocated to your course.
- All Other Users: All active users of the lab have automatically been assigned 30 credits. For further credits, please book a consultation and drop by the lab to chat with us, or email us at amme.lab@sydney.edu.au and we will do our best to assist you.
We’re here to support your creativity and learning, and we encourage you to make the most of the FabLab’s resources. Let’s work together to create an inspiring and productive environment.
Thank you for being a part of our community!
