Beginners - Getting Started

If you have no previous experience in programming or electronic engineering, this is a reference for you to get started understanding some of the core components that make up the world of DIY-technology!

See the Materials page for a list things you'll need.

• MaxMSP Demo
• Ableton Live Demo
• Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

The Arduino software is free to download, but you need an Arduino board, and a few parts to use it. Max and Ableton are both stand-alone software.

Arduino

Arduino is an open-source electronics prototyping platform based on flexible, easy-to-use hardware and software. It is intended for artists, designers, hobbyists and anyone interested in creativing interactive objects or environments. It runs on Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.

In the world of Arduino the programs you write are called "Sketches".

• Arduino Website: Probably the best place to start.
• Open Source Hardware Group:

• Jeremy Blum:

MaxMSP

Use Max to make your own music, sound, video, and interactive media applications. You arrange boxes on a canvas and connect them together to create, experiment, and play.

In the world of Max the programs you write are called "Patches".

• Cycling 74 Website: Again, probably the best place to start.
• Hugh Jackson

Soldering

Soldering is a usefull skill that is fundamental for dabbling in the world of electronics. Whether you are a first-timer or just looking for a refresher... This is where to start.

• Soldering Made Easy!: A short comic that teaches the basics of soldering.
• SparkFun.com: Click the link for a more detailed tutorial featured on Sparkfun's website.