FAQs

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Got a question? Hopefully it's answered here!

Getting Started

Who can access the space?

Anyone with a currently active AU ID can utilize DaBL!

How do I become a member?

Becoming a member is easy. There are only two steps:

  1. Attend an in-person Welcome to the Lab session, where you will go over the Safety in DaBL.
  2. Complete and submit a Safety Waiver. Everyone (faculty, staff, and students alike) staying in DaBL for more than a tour must sign a Safety Waiver; you will be given one during the Welcome to the Lab session.

When is the lab open?

Check out our calendar!

When are workshops?

All workshops are scheduled on our calendar.

Opportunities

What equipment is available to me?

Some tools and equipment require a certification to use, others require no such certification.

Tools requiring a Certification:

  • 3D printers:
    • Type-A Machines Series 1 Pro
    • Prusa I3 MK3S (4x)
  • Bantam Tools PCB Milling Machine
  • Sewing Machine
  • Advanced Soldering Station
  • GCC Jaguar VLX Vinyl Cutter
  • Heat Press
  • ULS PLS4.75 Laser Cutter

Other equipment (no Certification required)

  • Hand tools
  • Basic soldering stations
  • Hot wire foam cutter

What kinds of materials are available to me?

While this is not an exhaustive list, DaBL is typically stocked with:

  • PLA 3D printer filament
  • Small electronics parts (wires, resistors, capacitors, transistors, microcontrollers, solder, et al.)
  • Heat-transfer and adhesive-back vinyl
  • FR1 printed circuit board material
  • Acetyl blocks
  • Extruded polystyrene and foam sheets
  • 18"x24" Cast acrylic sheets
  • White muslin fabric and thread
  • Adhesives (tape, epoxy, glues, et al.)
  • Balsa wood blocks

How much do materials cost?

For the time being, the DaBL is covering the cost of all consumable materials. (See What kinds of materials are available to me? above.) This means as long as you have an active AU ID, you can design and build at DaBL for no cost! However, if you are working on a custom project requiring parts that aren't in the lab, you are responsible for procuring those materials.

Project Questions

What prior knowledge do I need to start a project?

Nothing - all we require is enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. By attending workshops and seeking guidance from student specialists your imagination is the limit in this space.

What if I don't know how to use a particular tool?

You can always ask for help from one of the Creative and Techincal Specialists in the space. We can help you use the equipment.

Can I submit a design and have someone build it for me?

Nope! the Design and Build Lab is an educational space: it is our goal to teach you the skills necessary to design and build, as well as provide a helping hand, rather than build for you.

While I work on my project, can I store it in DaBL?

DaBL does have limited member project storage space, so: it depends on the size. If all your parts will fit in a shoebox, then yes. If it's larger, we unfortunately won't have space for you.

Can I order parts for my project and have them shipped to DaBL?

No. We are not a mailroom, and we don't have the staffing or the physical space to be one! You'll have to ship them to yourself and then bring them to DaBL.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run my business out of DaBL?

No. You are encouraged to work on prototypes within the space; however, using the space for personal for-profit gains and mass production is not what the space is for.

Can I borrow equipment from DaBL to use somewhere else?

Nope! All equipment stays in DaBL; we do not have a loaning system.

What if I bring it right back?

Nope!

But what if-

Nope!

I have another question that isn't answered here. How do I get a hold of you to ask?

Send us an email!