Melbourne Mini

[wjohn]

Hi,

I think it would be great to hold a mini in Melbourne (M n Ms).

Possible dates would be Late October (just i time for Haloween), or we could go early in the August Time Frame.

I could set up some PCs, power, tables; and people could bring along their projects and ideas to share with others.

Of course, beers and BBQ would be on the Menu.


John
(Doncaster East)

[klanger]

Count me in, anytime.

Kevin
(Cowes)

[lytnin]

Sounds great. October would probably interfere with setup for me though.

First two weekends in August would work for me. Wife and daughters birthdays in latter part of the month, so I can't get those off :twisted:

Cheers

[Jeff Millard]

I wanna play too! If my wallet will agree...
j

[wjohn]

The MELBOURNE MINI is on this weekend - Sunday 4 Nov 2007 , starting a 2pm.

Join in, or dial in ;-)

[tuppet]

oh wow, I suddenly find some people in australia!

pity about the timing - but maybe next year? by then I might even have some interesting projects going!

[Michael Sullivan]

Hi Guys,

I think it is time to get the first Melbourne Mini up and running before mid year.

What do people think

We need to share some ideas in a more personal atmosphere so we can all lash out and build stuff before Christmas

Michael

[wjohn]

Fellow light nuts,

I am looking at dates in July or early August . Any preferences?

Location would be Doncaster, Melbourne.

[aussiephil]

I'd love to get down from Canberra.

You guys set the date and i'll work around it.

Cheers
Phil

[toodle_pipsky]

I'm with Phil, throw some dates out there and I'll see what I can do.

[TimW]

As Doncaster is such a long way away for me (about 15 minutes up the road!) I reckon I'm a good chance to make this one whenever its on!! Would love to get involved.

End July timing sounds good to me.

Tim

[klanger]

Count me in, I'm only 2 hours away. Pick a date, any date will do.

Kev

[srm]

Hi John,

count me in as well.

most week-ends are fine.

thank & Regards,
Stephen

[Michael Sullivan]

Yer count me in around thattime as I will make the time required

Michael

[mrpackethead]

I might even get a cheap flight across the ditch. Melbourne = nice place to visit. Have too many airports that need redeeming soon.

[piesrule58]

I too am interested. If I am available I will definitely attend.

Cheers, Terry

[jgrei1]

put me down as a maybe at the moment.. will know for sure when a rock solid date is set :)

[Goldie]

l'm in any time with the new freeway it'll be 15mins

[Wombat]

I might be able to organise something. let me know when

Wombat

[scorpia]

i thought i replyed to this.

anyway im in

[toodle_pipsky]

Sooooo, are there any tentative dates to throw out there? Gotta start figuring out how much plonk I can fit in my luggage ;)

[piesrule58]

Any ideas on a date yet?

Cheers, Terry

[piesrule58]

Is the Melbourne Mini still happening?

[Goldie]

l'll email john see whats happening, he was talking around July

[piesrule58]

It is now the middle of July. Can we assume that the Melb mini is not going to happen?

[mrpackethead]

The Melbourne Mini, is now being held in NZ
It will be called the Melbourne Mini in NZ ( MMiNZ )

Ahhh..

I still have my airpoints and will try to get over.. And i'm making some progress on stuff so i might even have some airpoints..

Wjohn.. i'll be happy to provide some high quality network equipment for the show!

[daviddth]

I gather John is too busy recently, so I guess the MM is off the table for now, and having it in NZ is a great idea, except for all the New Zealanders over there - it's like having it in Sydney! :)

[mrpackethead]

I gather John is too busy recently, so I guess the MM is off the table for now, and having it in NZ is a great idea, except for all the New Zealanders over there - it's like having it in Sydney! :)

Sydney is a dumping ground. However it does have a strange mathematical anomaly about it.

When ever a New Zealander moves West to Sydney ( and typically from Auckland ), the average IQ of both countrys goes up.

[toodle_pipsky]

I'm sure a lot of you saw option of joining the Philly Mini via Live Meeting the other night. It got me thinking . . . yes that was what the loud clanking noise was. I know that John's busy, but is there a possibility that we could have a Virtual Melbourne Mini? I have absolutely no I idea about how to get a video conf going, but I'm sure it can't be that hard for anyone to take a crash course and learn. I assume that the cost of travel (at least for some of us) versus the cost of chipping in for getting one going would be very attractive. That way we could get more Aussie's and Kiwi's in on it, who knows even some across the pond might join in.

Just chucking the idea out there - what are people's thoughts? Is it too late in the year/too hard/a good idea?

[Spearmint]

The Melbourne Mini, is now being held in NZ
It will be called the Melbourne Mini in NZ ( MMiNZ )

Ahhh..



Wow I didn't realise they had electricity over there...things must be on the improve. (just kidding)

I've been following this thread with interest, at the rate the year is progressing it'll be Christmas before we know it.

[scorpia]

ok really stupid question here. but why are we waiting on john to make a time for the mini.

what do we need. 3 things i guess.

1/ WHEN
2/ WHERE
3/ WHO

For when. Well july is outta the picture. say late next month? a saturday or a sunday any good i guess?

there is 16-17 aug, 23-24 aug, 30-31 aug. 6-7 sep. is this enough time for people who want flights etc?
anyone have any preferences or problems with one of those dates.

The WHERE is an issue. My place is to small and frankly is a DUMP :) so anyone else got options. possible option (with permission) WJOHN house.
others? Pub/resturant etc.

And who can make it? Well im in.

Other thoughts?

[Goldie]

ok really stupid question here. but why are we waiting on john to make a time for the mini.

what do we need. 3 things i guess.

1/ WHEN
2/ WHERE
3/ WHO

For when. Well july is outta the picture. say late next month? a saturday or a sunday any good i guess?

there is 16-17 aug, 23-24 aug, 30-31 aug. 6-7 sep.
anyone have any preferences or problems with one of those dates.

The WHERE is an issue. My place is to small and frankly is a DUMP :) so anyone else got options. possible option (with permission) WJOHN house.
others? Pub/resturant etc.

And who can make it? Well im in.

Other thoughts?



If WJOHN's place is not available, we can use my place, l don't have anything to show though just starting, so will need people to do their own setups, Robyne and l will help with the setups

any weekend is ok for us

[mrpackethead]

Wow I didn't realise they had electricity over there...things must be on the improve. (just kidding)

I've been following this thread with interest, at the rate the year is progressing it'll be Christmas before we know it.

Mate, we got the electricty, but we are still waiting for the water... :-) At least we got plenty of sheep. BAAAAAA ( just kidding )

[artzy]

If a venue is required, I would be more than happy to offer my offices in Dandenong South, just let me know when would suit.

Paul

[daviddth]

6/7 Sep is the only good dates for me. Have it saturday would be ideal as I can come down on the Friday, get together Saturday & drive back Sunday (Work monday evening - argh). Any of the other suggested days are definately out.

Be aware 7 Sep is fathers day.

[toodle_pipsky]

I'm available any weekend - trouble is I'm short on the moolah to be able to fly down this year. I'd be more than willing to investigate an internet hookup for anyone else in Australia/NZ who'd like to participate but can't afford to fly in or is unable to be there. Would there be interest in it? Don't want to do the leg work and have people say "nope, just you Ingrid" ;)

[daviddth]

I'll take the 6 video cameras down and video it for you then Ingrid ;)

[daviddth]

Hmmm no comments on dates? C'mon Aussies, comment!

[toodle_pipsky]

Ok organisational skills go! What a shame I don't have any . . . .

Checking out the posts here's what we got:
Venue -
Goldie's place @ where are you??!
Artzy's Office @ Dandenong South VIC

Anyone else, any NZer's, MPH has offered sheep. (man we gotta stop the sheep jokes)

I'll go out on a limb and say September is probably the best - gives a month to organise, and make travel plans if necessary. Although 7/9 is Father's Day as David pointed out - does this make a difference to you dad's out there? Would the weekend after be too late - 13-14/9?

What kinda stuff do people want to see? Or is this just an excuse to meet and greet? Or both? ;) hehehehehe Maybe if we start putting together an agenda of sorts we can see how many days will be needed, what venue might be best, etc. Call to all Aussies and NZ wadda ya want?

I'll get it going - if AussiePhil's interested in coming, he can give us a demo on his new Tiger.

[scorpia]

i think im good for the 13/14th .

[Goldie]

l'm in wheelers hill, not far from Artzy

September would be fine, any weekend from my point of view, l'll be working on my lights each weekend up until December.

It would be great to meet peolple also try to get some sort of a display up, with some demonstrations.

Mini's
Leaping arches
Vixen tips
ect.

[daviddth]

13/14 is probably not really good for me - I finish 7pm Friday night so unless it was a Sunday get-together then it's hard for me to get down in time. I COULD drive down Saturday and arrive Sat afternoon for a sat night greeting, BBQ etc and then a proper do on sunday.

Having it on Fathers day weekend is no biggie for me, plus its the only real weekend I have the Saturday available and the sunday for travelling home. The folloowing one (13/14) means Saturday travel down & Sunday for the meeting. It's up to the rest to decide what suits them.

[daviddth]

... then again a (cough) bug on Friday may leave be ok for BOTH days lol

[mrpackethead]

I'll try to get over to melbourne.. We have family over there, so i can double the excuse, and keep the wife happy..

I'd be happy to bring a small part of my RGB LED matrix over..( say 64 pixels ).. Its almost all finished now.. I'm on the last strectch now, all pcbs assembled, enclosures purchased.. Just have to program the boards, ( takes about 60 secs a board ), and cable up.. ( its all patch leads, simple and easy ( cheap )..

Big power supply and dmx splitters to build.

[Michael Sullivan]

13 or 14th of September is great for me.

I have my rope light leaping arches and a great new rope light multi-color mega tree design I have been building that I am sure people would love to see as well as a couple other bits and pieces.

Michael

[toodle_pipsky]

Ok - so far looking like 13/14 Sep is good enough, plenty of time for organising and people to make travel arrangements. David might have to *cough* be sick on Friday ;)

So venue - 2 options Goldie's place @ Wheelers Hill or Artzy's Office @ Dandenong South. What kind of space we looking at for each location? Pros and cons - you can camp out in Goldie's backyard, but not Artzy's office. Sorry couldn't resist. . . .
Probably be a good time to start getting a serious show of hands - who'd be interested in coming and is 13/14 September good for you? That'll probably be a good indicator of location, the amount of people coming. If either of you gents would like to step up and confirm your joint that would be good too.

Ummm without being all "mother hen" about the whole thing, probably a good idea to have date and venue decided this coming week. August will go quickly. I know we Aussies are pretty laid back and the whole thing will be just beer and lights talk but we gotta know when and where the beer at.

Some stuff that's been suggested to cover so far:
MPH - Demo RGB LED matrix
MS - Demo Leaping arches & mega-tree
Vixen sequencing
Minis - care to elaborate Goldie?
Beer/wine :)

Cluck - mother hen out.

[piesrule58]

I would love to attend but 13/14 Sept is no good for me. I already have plans for that weekend. Later in Sept would suit me better.

[Goldie]

Ok lets make it my place, we need to get a date set, l'm free all those weekends.
as l stated before l have not got much to show off, but l reckon if we get people to set up on the Saturday (may not need this amount of time), say start 10 am Sunday, with demo's and displays.
l'll have one reindeer ready that has been swapped from mini lights to LED's.
What else can we get setup and how long to set them up ??
Who's coming ???

[magott]

Just had Goldie twisting my leg re the mini. No seroiusly the 13/14 is great and I am happy to help setup/help etc on both days. Have a firework display that should be operational by then that may be of intrest. The more the merrier as thay say and more information and help that can be shared by all.

[klanger]

That date is ok for me, see you there.:)

[artzy]

Any date is good for me..If it grows beyond Goldies place i am happy to have the office as a fall back. We could use the training room and or board room if needed.

[daviddth]

Count me in for a pretty much definately going.

Edit: If it changes to 20/21 I definately cant go. 13/14 is fine for me though, especially if the main do is on Sunday :)

[piesrule58]

I will definitely attend if it is on weekend of 20/21 Sept. I would need to know soon so I can book flights etc.

[Michael Sullivan]

Hi people,

20/21 will also be ok with me, I am happy with both weekends.

Michael

[artzy]

Now that we have a venue, we need to lock in a date. Goldie as host perhaps you could select best date so we can all start planning from there.

Paul

[daviddth]

Sounds good Paul - Go ahead Goldie, pull a date out of your hat (or the previous list lol)so we can get organised! ;)

[Goldie]

Ok, l'm picking the 13/14 September sorry for those that can't make it, we'll make sure there are plenty of Photo's ect.
l'll put a list of hotels that are close to my place, with phone numbers.
Closer to the date l'll setup a map on how to get there, Tulla is probably the best airport to go to, l am 48 Klms from there.
PM me if you need anyother information and l'll see what l can do

[daviddth]

Start with the cheap hotels :)Actually I think theres an F1 near you from memory, as $60 or so a night sounds good to me lol

Booking now. Yay :)

[daviddth]

Ok Guys, Gals and other indeterminate sexes. I have booked (and paid for!!!) my stay for the 12, 13 & 14th September. No changing the dates now as it's a $210 non-refundable accomodation charge :D

Now to get the (cough) 12th (cough) off....

[toodle_pipsky]

Now to get the (cough) 12th (cough) off....

Oh no David, that cough doesn't sound good! I predict you should have that day off . . . .umm 35 days into the future. Future cold!

Is that the F1 @ the airport?

[daviddth]

Airport? Nah I'm driving down. I'm staying at Dandenong, so I have been warned - in before dark & dont leave before sunup ;)

[klanger]

Ok Guys, Gals and other indeterminate sexes. I have booked (and paid for!!!) my stay for the 12, 13 & 14th September. No changing the dates now as it's a $210 non-refundable accomodation charge :D

Now to get the (cough) 12th (cough) off....


just tell em your coming down for my birthday (the 12th), that should work;)

[daviddth]

I'll say its your funeral - great uncle Kebbin ;)

[toodle_pipsky]

Excellent, thank you Goldie for the offer of your place and settling on a date.

Also that would be great to have a list of places to stay nearby - I have absolutely no idea of places in Melbourne, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Looking on whereis.com I am assuming that "Tulla" is the main airport?

So now I doubt it will be a formal affair (I won't pack a cocktail dress if I'm able to come), but what kind of outline will the weekend follow? Will it pack in stuff for the 2 days (Sat/Sun) or will it just be 1 day? Personally I would really love to see a lot packed into the 2 days - even if 1 day is just a general mixer and just chit-chat about displays and 1 day showing off/how-to's/demonstrations. But is that practical or too much to ask of Goldie to have a mob at his place all weekend?

Once again, this is some stuff that's been suggested to cover so far:
MPH - Demo RGB LED matrix
MS - Demo Leaping arches & mega-tree
Vixen sequencing
Minis - care to elaborate Goldie?

I'd say it would probably be a good idea to decided on a rough outline by the end of the month, so people have a chance to think about what they want to see but not leave it to the last minute for people to decide on what equipment to bring or Goldie to have space ready for everyone to lob in. ;) And a show of hands, who can come?

[scorpia]

i could suggest we have a "get TP's lights working session" but we havnt picked a long weekend :)

Seriously though i will probably have my ren-c + grinch stack there as well as my ren -16's etc. also hoping to have my dmx controller and led pixels running by then so hopefully i can bring them.

maybe even have my LED ballon project off the ground by then.

not sure exactly when i can make it as my wife has a shopping tour on the saturday so i might be looking after the kids. hell i may even just bring em for the day. as far as i knopw im good for sunday.

so i will be there at least for one day and probably at least part of both

peter

[Ronp]

Adult 1 $1,335.33 $422.06 $1,757.39

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Insurance: $0.00
Total of sale: $1757.39 USD
Maybe next year lol

[wjohn]

Ron, I can cough up the 57.39, if you can cover the 17 at the front.

[Goldie]

Excellent, thank you Goldie for the offer of your place and settling on a date.

Also that would be great to have a list of places to stay nearby - I have absolutely no idea of places in Melbourne, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. Looking on whereis.com I am assuming that "Tulla" is the main airport?

So now I doubt it will be a formal affair (I won't pack a cocktail dress if I'm able to come), but what kind of outline will the weekend follow? Will it pack in stuff for the 2 days (Sat/Sun) or will it just be 1 day? Personally I would really love to see a lot packed into the 2 days - even if 1 day is just a general mixer and just chit-chat about displays and 1 day showing off/how-to's/demonstrations. But is that practical or too much to ask of Goldie to have a mob at his place all weekend?

Once again, this is some stuff that's been suggested to cover so far:
MPH - Demo RGB LED matrix
MS - Demo Leaping arches & mega-tree
Vixen sequencing
Minis - care to elaborate Goldie?

I'd say it would probably be a good idea to decided on a rough outline by the end of the month, so people have a chance to think about what they want to see but not leave it to the last minute for people to decide on what equipment to bring or Goldie to have space ready for everyone to lob in. ;) And a show of hands, who can come?


I was thinking of starting on Saturday after 1.00pm, finish when everyone leaves, then start again on Sunday around 11.00am.
Saturday would be the day we get stuff setup, meet and greet. Sunday would be for demo's showing off ect.

If its raining we have 4 rooms 2 3 x 8, 3 x 6 and 1 4 x 4 plus the carport, if it's fine then add the back yard

Not too fussed about the Minis, people have made different types, may be a couple to see the different ways to do them.

l'll have one computer and a lap top available for sequencing, if you have a sequence that you want to show off, put it on a stick, we should be able to download it on to one of the computers (anybody has lap tops available for the day, bring them along)

l'll get a list of accommodation by this weekend

Now who's in and who need what for setting up, space, power points ect

[Goldie]

not sure exactly when i can make it as my wife has a shopping tour on the saturday so i might be looking after the kids. hell i may even just bring em for the day. as far as i knopw im good for sunday.


peter[/QUOTE]


Peter

Kid's are fine, bring em, we'll find something for them to do

[daviddth]

I'll be there, with laptop & probably the led version of the Grinch. Looking for tips on sequencing chases, plus dimming effects as this is first year dimming :)

[wjohn]

i'll be there,

Not sure what to bring, I can demo most of the controllers available, plus we can workshop building any of the boards.

[daviddth]

Wow, John, your ALIVE!!! ;)

Glad to see you will be there - be good to see you again lol

[magott]

In adddition to Wjohns suggestions of building some boards as a possible exercise can we also possibly look at the pic flashing process and how it works. I know goldie and myself have a fistfull that need programming . Also the idea re a workshop on dimming and the ins and outs of multiport serial boards under vixen with the ren boards would also be a usefull addition i think.

[srm]

I'm hoping to get there at least on sunday.

I can bring my DMX controller & some pixels I've build.

I'll also bring my laptop & pic programmer if thats of any help.

Regards,

Stephen..

PS what is the address ?

PPS maybe wjohn could bring some blank boards & we can buy them there....

[scorpia]

im sure we can organise any pics that need programming.

i will try and remember to bring my programmer as well.

and yeah im sure john will have boards available to pawn . opps sorry sell.


peter

[daviddth]

Actually a lesson in programming would be great, if someone can bring along the software to install on our PC's. I'll take my programmer down & get some help :)

[TimW]

Hi All

I'm in for this. I can bring a LedTricks (and maybe a couple of other tricks I've been working on that talk to it :) )

Tim

[scorpia]

im hoping there will be some internet access there so w can download the software needed to program chips.

but yes a basic howto session would be easy enough

[daviddth]

Heh, lets sneak a wireless access point onto the network there & have some fun ;) (I do have a DLink access point spare here)

Tim, great - been wanting to see a Ledtriks in person - I have 2 boards, but no LED's done. I'll bring my cable and SSR tester down too, plus a few 240V Powerboards.

[coolspot]

will anyone on saturday have any bta08s and moc3023 for sale

[scorpia]

rockby electronics which is 10 mins away has a triac that should work fine for 24v use (wouldnt recommend it for 240v as its not isolated)

Last time i checked they were 20c each and rockby is open to lunch time saturdays and only 10-15 mins from wheelers hill

[toodle_pipsky]

Ok, it's crunch time . . . gotta decide if I'm coming or not. Gonna cost around $545 for flights and accommodation. So are you going to give me my money's worth ;) ?

Flights are the killer - anyone got any tips for the best time of day to book or any discounts to look out for when booking flights? Best I can find is Virgin Blue $149 Bris to Melb and VB again $159 Melb back to Bris. There are cheaper flights, but they're to Avalon, which I understand is over an hour away anyway - or is it, I don't know Melb too well.

I'd love to come and mingle. I'm leaning towards "bugger it I'll go", but what do you reckon, would it be worth the trip?

[Michael Sullivan]

It would be your 1 and only chance to get real hands on help.

Bring along anything that may not be working correctly such as boards etc.

Me being a Magician everyone will get to see some kick ass magic.

Michael

[daviddth]

Pack yer bags Ingrid, and get your a$$ down there for the mini :)

Seriously, you have been having issues with some of your gear, so getting hands on help could be a great help for you. I also intend learning heaps, as well as getting to meet quite a few people who I have chatted with for a couple of years in some cases.

I'll be bringing down a box of stuff - not sure yet, but probably a raised Minitree or two, the Grinch & LED's, my ZC box, programmer (I need to learn!), laptop, Video camera & camera of course. I'm going to have to find another old PC supply to mod & bring as mine is rather built into the current PC case setup at the moment...

Also bringing 4 & 6 way power boards, cable tester/SSR tester/Grinch(ren & 595 too) output tester as well.

[toodle_pipsky]

Wellllll, kick ass magic . . . how can you say no to that. ;)

Everything's working now, so it wouldn't be a troubleshooting trip. That's not to say I still wouldn't learn a thing or 2! I'll try and get my tax done over the weekend (hahahahahaha like that'll happen) and see what that brings. If I am able to come I'd really be interested in people's set up and take down tips, things like easy ways to do stuff, how you mow your lawn with a million wires running through it, stuff like that. Also it's been mentioned, but I'd like to see how to flash PICs. Id's be really interested to see what these other boards look like too - looking at a picture is definitely not the same as holding one in your hand!

[coolspot]

i need bta08 triacs as they are the proper triacs aqnd i am operating on 240v

[artzy]

I'll be there to learn as much as possible. If anyone does want any PC power supplies, we have a dozen or so sitting idle in the corner of our comms rooms, let me know they would be free to good (or even not so good) home

Paul

[coolspot]

I'll be there to learn as much as possible. If anyone does want any PC power supplies, we have a dozen or so sitting idle in the corner of our comms rooms, let me know they would be free to good (or even not so good) home

Paul

ill grab 2 if ya there sat

[daviddth]

I'll be there to learn as much as possible. If anyone does want any PC power supplies, we have a dozen or so sitting idle in the corner of our comms rooms, let me know they would be free to good (or even not so good) home

Paul

Are they XT or AT? The issue is that the old XT ones has great regulation at almost no load - usually a fan or two was enough to keep the 12 and 5V rails smooth as silk and on voltage.

The AT ones I have modded in the past really needed a bit more load - often up to 5 or 10% load before the 5V rail was reliably stable. Thats not a problem when the entire setup is running off it, but it is when your powering just a single board....

If you have any XT ones, I'll grab one please.

[mrpackethead]

Ron, I can cough up the 57.39, if you can cover the 17 at the front.

Cisco sales down then? Lol..

[daviddth]

Yeah he's too busy giving free samples of 8 port gigabit hubs away... Oh wait no he aint, even with all my begging (Which could explain why John does not drop by as much lately...) ;)

[mrpackethead]

There are cheaper flights, but they're to Avalon, which I understand is over an hour away anyway - or is it, I don't know Melb too well.?

i accidently booked flights to "Melbourne", expecting to turn up at Tullamarine once.. Forutnatly our daughter picked us up.. It was about 3/4 hour drive back to town.. irony is that she lives in Tullamarine.. DOH!!

However i did check it out and there is a shuttle service ($17) http://www.avalonairportshuttle.com.au/.

[scorpia]

Coolspot,

yes i understand about the triacs.

fyi thought the ones i was talking about are http://www.rockby.com.au/catresults.cfm?stock_no=26439 , still only 20c each. they should work for 240v but having the non isolated tab i wouldnt recommend them unless they were nicely boxed up in some sort of enclosure and you know what your doing.

they dont have the BTA08 but they do have a couple of bta16's

Toodle_pipsky it would be great to see you down here if youcould make it. but i know it would be hard. i couldnt afford to get upto a mini up there so understand if you dont make it.

anyway should be a good weekend. i hope theres a BBQ on or something. happy to pitch in for some food etc if required.

Peter

[coolspot]

Coolspot,

yes i understand about the triacs.

fyi thought the ones i was talking about are http://www.rockby.com.au/catresults.cfm?stock_no=26439 , still only 20c each. they should work for 240v but having the non isolated tab i wouldnt recommend them unless they were nicely boxed up in some sort of enclosure and you know what your doing.

they dont have the BTA08 but they do have a couple of bta16's

Toodle_pipsky it would be great to see you down here if youcould make it. but i know it would be hard. i couldnt afford to get upto a mini up there so understand if you dont make it.

anyway should be a good weekend. i hope theres a BBQ on or something. happy to pitch in for some food etc if required.

Peter

have you used them if you have then i may cosider them

[toodle_pipsky]

I just thought of something else I'd like to see - how you guys hook up your transformers. I know the specifics of what wire goes where, but just wanna get some ideas on how to mount them and how to do it all nice and tidy like. I know they're a bit bulky to be carrying around, so maybe one of the local boys could bring one or a bit of show and tell with photos.

[daviddth]

I'll see how I go Ingrid - I mighht be working on a box then so I'll consider bringing it down for "fun" :)

[klanger]

I'll try as well, see what I can fit in the car.

[wjohn]

I just thought of something else I'd like to see - how you guys hook up your transformers. I know the specifics of what wire goes where, but just wanna get some ideas on how to mount them and how to do it all nice and tidy like. I know they're a bit bulky to be carrying around, so maybe one of the local boys could bring one or a bit of show and tell with photos.


I'll have transformers there. I can run a session on Torrids, how to test, check phases, and wire them up for either 2 x Vac or 2 x Iac (higher voltage or higher current).

we'll need to set up a class list.

[mrpackethead]

I can bring up to 20kg.. :-) I figured that means about 30pixels, power supply and patch cables.

[toodle_pipsky]

Trying to get my travel plans into gear . . . trying.

Now I don't know Melbourne at all - so can one of the natives have a look at the map. The Melb Airport I've found is the main airport right? When I book at flight online and it says "Melbourne" it'll be that airport correct? Unless they call it Avalon Airport, which is about 1 hour south-west of there is that right, and I don't want to book flights to Avalon correct?

Goldie's place is @ Wheeler's Hill, Dave you're staying in Dandenong - that's about 15/20 minutes away right? Where are the other out of towner's staying (if you know and want to share). I ask because I'm going to have to be really nice to people and ask for lifts to and from the mini.

Also how good is the train/bus system down there? I'm thinking that'll be the cheapest way to get to/from the airport - especially since I'm looking at flights that arrive 8:30am on Friday and leave about the same time Monday. Also any near by shopping centres/ electronics shops? So I can fill my day on Friday with girly stuff ;)

[artzy]

Hey Toodles, yes Melbourne airport (Tullamarine) is the main airport, which is about 15km north east of the city. Goldie lives about 25km SE, and yes Dandenong is about 10-15 minutes away. If it helps with transport I have a Tarago to run people from this general area to Goldies. If a few of you are flying i at the same time I would be happy to do an airport run.


let me know

Paul

[mrpackethead]

Sometime before the event, if someone can give me an address, i'll plug it into the GPS and find where i'm going..

Australia is one big place of course!!! i coudl find myself driving 15,000km in a round trip via darwin and perth if i take the wrong turn.

[toodle_pipsky]

Legendary artzy - thanks for the offer. I'll post the time of arrival for my flight when I book it and hopefully it'll coincide with others!

[Goldie]

Hi Guys

Sorry, l've been really busy, have not had time to get all the stuff together, l'll post some links tonight on the closest hotel, motels, and pm my address, to all l think are coming, l'll also put a list on the Mebourne Min attendance thread, l want to get an agenda completed by Sunday, it looks pretty good what we have so far, but if there is anything else that people would like to see demo'd now is the time put speak up.

[Goldie]

These link are the main hotels that are around this area, if you have any probs PM me,

http://www.wotif.com/hotels/best-western-wheelers-hill-international.html

http://www.gatewayonmonash.com.au/gatewayonmonash/accommodation.htm

http://www.batonrouge.com.au/

[daviddth]

http://www.formule1.com.au/3584/detail/default.aspx

Thats where I'm staying (Hey 3 nights aint cheap lol)

[toodle_pipsky]

Well there's absolutely no turning back now . . . . I've just booked accommodation. Hahahahahahaha suck it fellas I'm coming!! ;)

Actually - is the Christmas Cave near where the mini is being held? The site doesn't show the shop as open for the season yet so no address listed - maybe one of you guys might know? (I'ts no biggie, there's one in Brisbane anyway, just thought I'd have a look while I'm in the neighbourhood ;) )

[Goldie]

Ok, these are the people l have PM with my address details
SRM, MrPackethead, WJohn, Coolspot, Daviddth, Toodle Pipsky, TimW
Klanger, Michael Sullivan, Artzy, Maggot, Scorpia

Have l missed anyone and did every body get the address

[artzy]

Hey Toodles

Christmas Cave havent announced location for their Melbourne Store(s) yet

Paul

[toodle_pipsky]

What it's a different location each year? Oh poo, I just assumed it was in the same warehouse style store each year. I wonder where the Brissie store will be because I thought it was near ANZ Stadium?

Thanks for the info Paul. You lot will just have to tell me all the other exciting places to shop - or ask the missus for a suggestion ;)

[coolspot]

http://www.xmasdelights.com.au/ it is 20km away from goldies place according to Google maps it is a good store i have been there before

[coolspot]

does anyone have snap on tees cheap that i can buy at the meet

[toodle_pipsky]

My fellow Earthicans, there's no turning back now! I've booked flights and accommodation WOO I'm so excited.

Just in case there's a car pool or someone's going through town at that time, my flight arrives in Melbourne @ 9:15am on 12/9 (Friday) and I leave Melbourne @ 10:05am on 15/9 (Monday). Of course I'm more than happy to chip in for petrol. If it doesn't coincide with anyone's plans that's ok, I can catch the train, I'm not above public transport!

[coolspot]

and if anyone has any 10m light strings for sale

[daviddth]

Toodles, the flight out is no big deal for me to get you to as I expected to leave at about 8am monday, so I can juggle that to get you to the airport with plenty of time to spare. Cant help you on the Friday though sorry, as I expect to be about Cowra or a bit further by then lol

[klanger]

I can catch the train, I'm not above public transport!


That wont work, no trains to the airport. We must be the only state in Australia without a rail service to the airport.:cry:

[toodle_pipsky]

Well I'll get a bus, or horse or something. ;)

[daviddth]

No horses down there - the locals eithor shoot them for food or capture them and teach the smart ones to play professional AFL ;)

[piesrule58]

No horses down there - the locals eithor shoot them for food or capture them and teach the smart ones to play professional AFL ;)

That's because all the donkeys are in Sydney and Brisbane playing Rugby League.

[TimW]

That's because all the donkeys are in Sydney and Brisbane playing Rugby League.

Ah, I'd always wondered about those Brisbane Donkoes. Now it all makes sense!

(go Hawks!)

[artzy]

Hi for those staying in the Dandenong area there is an airport shuttle bus that does airport to Dandy for $25per person I will get the number and post here over the weekend

[toodle_pipsky]

Hey art, would this be the service you're talking about? http://www.airportbusdandenong.com.au/

[artzy]

Thats the one...I will PM you my number and if you call me I can collect you from the station and run you to the motel.

Paul

[toodle_pipsky]

Starting to get stuff together . . . ok I'm doing the laundry :p What's the weather like down in Melb at the moment? I see on BOM it's still chilly, but is that the actual weather down there - weather man can be off sometimes. heheheehehehe

[coolspot]

Starting to get stuff together . . . ok I'm doing the laundry :p What's the weather like down in Melb at the moment? I see on BOM it's still chilly, but is that the actual weather down there - weather man can be off sometimes. heheheehehehe

really really cold at the moment

[magott]

The weekend weather for the mini is going to be around 22 and sunny on Saturday with the chance of some showers on sunday. As usual with Melbourne weather you get a bit of everything. On another note could all attendees of the melb mini PM me or Tony (Magott or Goldie) with their full names so we can prepare a few things for the mini. You dont always get everyones full names from the forum.

I also have possible access to a range of surplus PCs and computer related equipement through work. The pcs will be spec around 2.0ghz celereons with 256mb ram 80Gb, cd/cdr writers and above. All around 2-4 years old and in good condition. Not sure how many will be available yet. Price will also be dependant on numbers but i figure around $120. At the moment i need expressions of intrest and any other requests for equipement ASAP so i can try and organise something.

Thanks Tim M

[Goldie]

Hi Guys

The attached file is the agenda, with timings, these are only approx. but it does give us an idea what we are going to be doing when.
Look forward to seeing you all

[toodle_pipsky]

Looks good to me - can't wait for Beer O'Clock. I can't seem to find it on my watch . . .must be a Victorian thing ;)

Can't wait to meet you all, I have many, many questions.

[coolspot]

that is not set up to well at all is not what i was hoping for as i am only down for a couple hours and want to know about the grinch and im not staying till 4 im only gonna be there for a hour or 2 get parts find out about what i want to and leave thats it and meet people and show and tell should be on bothe days it should just be a thing were you can walk round and have a look and ask questions instead of set times as not everyone is going to be there the whole time as it is not good for people who have to travel a couple hours

[magott]

The agenda for the mini was based on the requests of all those attending to try and cover as much as possible for everyone over the two days. Im unsure if the information that you were only attending for a couple of hours was given to the organisers but there is still the initial meet and greet etc at 1 on the saturday where you can talk with other people. Im sure most people will be happy to answer any questions. Again the agenda is not rigid and will possibly be changed slightly over the course of the weekend. However without some guidelines it was felt that all the things that people wanted to cover wouldnt be done in the timeframes. I think it will be a cracking good weekend for all concerned and look forward to meeting everyone there.
Apologies in advance from the setup committee if some areas dont measure up. Cheers

[scorpia]

im sure we can move things around to help if needed

[daviddth]

I'm hoping someone will be taking a ledtriks setup along - I want to test my boards as I cant get squat from them here :(

Dave

[Goldie]

I'm hoping someone will be taking a ledtriks setup along - I want to test my boards as I cant get squat from them here :(

Dave

Hi Dave

Timw is bringing his so that should help

[Goldie]

Guys

The agenda is a guide only, some people are only going to be at the mini for one day, we will move demo's ect if needed, but, we do need to know in advance, what is wanted and when, there is only so much we can go through in two days and doubling up on areas needs to be avoided where possible.

[coolspot]

Guys

The agenda is a guide only, some people are only going to be at the mini for one day, we will move demo's ect if needed, but, we do need to know in advance, what is wanted and when, there is only so much we can go through in two days and doubling up on areas needs to be avoided where possible.

well i want to know about the grinch vixen ssrs minitree and megatree

[TimW]

Dave - I have a little 16x16 led test rig that will test your ledtriks board nicely. Will bring it along.

[Goldie]

well i want to know about the grinch vixen ssrs minitree and megatree

Hi coolSpot

When will you be there, how long will you be at the Mini, we can arrange for most of this if there is anough time, if time is an issue what are your priorities ??????

[coolspot]

Hi coolSpot

When will you be there, how long will you be at the Mini, we can arrange for most of this if there is anough time, if time is an issue what are your priorities ??????

1 till maybe 2:30 they are my priorities
and pick uip parts i bag any 24 pin ic sockets from john

[artzy]

I am soooo looking forward to this weekend and want to say thanks in advance to Goldie and all of the others organising it, you have done a wonderful job trying to accomodate all of our different needs and Goldie opening your home to so many strangers (including a queenslander) is such a kind gesture.

It is this spirit that provides the enjoyment we all get from this group

See you all @ beer o'clock

Paul

[toodle_pipsky]

Who's the QLD'er coming? I'm originally from NSW so you can't be talking about me ;) I'm looking forward to meeting all of you too, even though you are Mexicans (as in south of the border).

Hehehehehehehe Here's to beer o'clock with new friends!

[daviddth]

Tim - thanks - I'll look forward to it, plus hopefully making my own lol

[wjohn]

Who's the QLD'er coming? I'm originally from NSW so you can't be talking about me ;) I'm looking forward to meeting all of you too, even though you are Mexicans (as in south of the border).

Hehehehehehehe Here's to beer o'clock with new friends!

umm, I am from QLD.....

[scorpia]

umm, I am from QLD.....


Well......

that does explain a thing or 2....

[daviddth]

umm, I am from QLD.....

...explains a LOT..

Sitting in a restaurant in Wodonga typing on the phone- fun :)

Dave

[Xccentric]

Hey guys... have a fun time..... Might see you all next year....

[Wombat]

bummer forgot all about it. Looks like ill have to meet up with you next year hopefully we can have it in Sydney next time ;)

Have fun Wish I could be there

Wombat

[daviddth]

well I arrived ok about 10 minutes ago to the F1 at Dandenong. Ingrid is also staying on the same motel. Is anyone thinking of drinks or dinner somewhere simple tonight? Call it a pre-meet get together.

I'll check back on a few hrs (on my mobile now) and we can get together tonight maybe. Prefer somewhere closeish to here, and I'll ask Ingrid if she is interested too

[scorpia]

Goldie.

late notice question,

do you have tools i can use?

things like drill, dremel, hacksaw etc.

Also will there be internet access for at least some limited download/forum access etc?

Also do you want anything ? food drink etc. what ever

ill check again later or feel free to email me.

Peter

[Goldie]

Hi Scorpia

l have most tools but not a Dremel, food don't worry about we are going shopping tomorrow and we'll get some nibbles and soft drinks, Maggot is setting up a network and internet system (something he does, l can't even type)

Look forward to seeing you

[daviddth]

great stuff. If you need anything else just email or SMS me. I'll send Goldie and scorpia my numbers in a sec :)

[scorpia]

DAMM,

just tried to get into the shed tonight to make a surprise for tommorow and i cant find the keys.

AARRGGHH. so atm im locked out of the shed. hopefully i can get in the shed tomorrow morning and get my dremmel and a few other things out.

PS i will have a pc in the car if needed.

[mrpackethead]

Hope its all going well guys.. Gutted that im not there..

[scorpia]

pitty you cant make it. im sure we will miss you.

and on a brighter note.
i will be showing a new board design that i made. thanks mph for the help.

hopefully it will work as intended because the testing time has been minimal ie 0 testing :(

anyway more info later

peter

[coolspot]

i had a alright time there thanks to scorpia and john or the help just waiting for my parts to arrive now

[wjohn]

thanks to everyone who attended the Melb Mini. we had a great two days, covered a lot of the questions people had, and saw some great examples of hadiwork.

Can wait to see all the displays at Xmas.

John.

[coolspot]

thanks to everyone who attended the Melb Mini. we had a great two days, covered a lot of the questions people had, and saw some great examples of hadiwork.

Can wait to see all the displays at Xmas.

John.

it was a good day Saturday forgot about the ssr ive built one and it does not work also my mum said hat we may go down to Melbourne to look at lights so may look at a couple of the Melbourne guys lights

[Michael Sullivan]

I would first like to thank Goldie & Mrs Goldie for opening up the home to hold the Mini.

It was great to put names to faces and to see all the new fresh ideas people have been playing with.

I look forward to some brainstorming sessions in the future and to see the displays come christmas.

Michael

[coolspot]

I would first like to thank Scorpia & Mrs Scorpia for opening up the home to hold the Mini.

It was great to put names to faces and to see all the new fresh ideas people have been playing with.

I look forward to some brainstorming sessions in the future and to see the displays come christmas.

Michael

i thought it was goldie

[wjohn]

IT was Mr and Mrs Goldie, Mike is confused and overloaded with ideas for XMas.

[Michael Sullivan]

DOH!

Sorry My Christmas brain is overclocked with Triks-C

Sorry Mr & Mrs Goldie

[klanger]

I would also like to thank Tony for hosting us over the weekend, I was only able to make it saturday, but had a great time anyway. And a thank you to Tim (maggot), John (Wjohn) and Pete (scorpia)for running the sessions which were informative and fun as well. Also can't forget Dave and Ingrid for traveling down from interstate for the weekend, it was great to catch up with you both after chatting to each other for so long. To everyone else that was there, thank you for your ideas and friendships that were created over the weekend.

P.s Thanks for the birthday cake.:grin:

[toodle_pipsky]

Just got home - well 50 mins ago. Thanks heaps guys for a wicked weekend, I am sooooooo glad I decided to go. I see that Tricks-C is already causing a stir (on-ya Tim)! Kudos go out to Goldie and your poor suffering wife for having a house full of nerds, good luck with the renos. Thank you so much to John for explaining everything so well, I just hope I've retained enough to avoid "doing an Ingrid" ;) Thank you to Dave for carting me around the joint I really appreciate it. And of course thank you to all of you for sharing tips and stuff that you've built. It was really great to see what everyone's working on, I can't wait come Christmas to see the fruits of your labour! I know what you all look like - so chat will take on a slightly frightening aspect now. Hehehehehehehe

I've got the transformer out, and going to hook it up. As suggested I'm using the 2 kittie method, or was that the wire method :grin:.

[artzy]

I'd like to echo what has been said below. Thank you to the Goldies for their hospitality, to John and everyone else for breaking down the info to a level even I could understand, and to everyone else that attended for making such a novice feel welcome.

[toodle_pipsky]

Sorry art, should have said thanks for your offer to protect me from Dandenong ;)

[TimW]

Yeah thanks everyone - it was great fun,good humour, and a great pace. Thanks to Mr and Mrs G for the hospitality!

Tim

[artzy]

Sorry art, should have said thanks for your offer to protect me from Dandenong ;)

Yeah but how long will it take Dandenong to recover from a joint toodles and Dave visit?

[Macrosill]

I am happy to hear the Melbourne Mini went so well and you all had so much fun.

Even though I did not attend I would like to thank Mr & Mrs Goldie for hosting the Mini.

[artzy]

Hey everyone, firstly I will apologise if this is in the wrong thread but as a follow up from Saturday did anyone have the link for the USB-Serial Hub that we were shown.

Many many thanks

Paul

[TimW]

I'm looking as well! USB-multiport serial.

[scorpia]

The 4 port serial box i had down there was from ebay.

search for either 4 port usb serial or item number 110289712217

either should bring it up.

Peter

[daviddth]

Mine is similar to item 110287571512 (http://cgi.ebay.com.au/USB-2-0-to-Serial-4-port-Statio-Support-Vista-W-Box_W0QQitemZ110287571512QQihZ001QQcategoryZ41995Q QcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1742.m153.l1262) and works great in testing here.

[toodle_pipsky]

A rather girlie question . . . . did anyone take pickies @ the mini? I took a few but not nearly as many as I thought I did. Just a couple of light stuff, one of me and Kev, one of Michael looking surprised I took a photo and a whole bunch from the front seat of Dave's car of the motorway (I know, I am insane).

[coolspot]

A rather girlie question . . . . did anyone take pickies @ the mini? I took a few but not nearly as many as I thought I did. Just a couple of light stuff, one of me and Kev, one of Michael looking surprised I took a photo and a whole bunch from the front seat of Dave's car of the motorway (I know, I am insane).

i dont want to see the one of me lol

[toodle_pipsky]

Hehehehehe, sorry I don't have one of you - it's Michael Sullivan. Although I shoulda grabbed a snap of you looking on as we all cheered for your Grinch!

[daviddth]

I took about 15 pics on the 2 days - some on the phone to email to the Mrs, and a few with my camera, but not a lot. I'll put them up on Lithgow Lights in the next few days.

[artzy]

I will try to post the Video of Johns transformer tutorial including the "cat testing method", and how to "do an ingrid" in the next day

Paul

[Goldie]

Thanks for all those that attended the Melbourne Mini, l think it was a great success, l was a little worried that we would all be standing round staring at each other for two days, well that certainly didn't happen.
l'd like to thank Tim Magill (Maggot) who set out the agenda which helped set the trend for the two days.
John (WJohn), Tim (Maggot) and Peter (Scorpia) for running the Demo’s.
Tim (TimW) for bringing the Trick-c
It was great to be able to contribute some thing to DIYC

[daviddth]

You forgot to thank Toodles for coming 2200km to hang out with a bunch of blinky-flashy fools for 3 days :)

[coolspot]

You forgot to thank Toodles for coming 2200km to hang out with a bunch of blinky-flashy fools for 3 days :)

calling yourself a flashy fool lol

[daviddth]

Well technically speaking TP spent 4 days with me - I picked her up on Friday from the airport, sat & sun at the Mini & I dropped her at the airport on Monday morning... I feel sorry for the poor girl lol

[toodle_pipsky]

I just flew in . . and boy are my arms tired! I'm thankful I had someone carting me around and staying in the same dodgy motel! Hooray for Dandy.

[klanger]

You forgot to thank Toodles for coming 2200km to hang out with a bunch of blinky-flashy fools for 3 days :)


Oi, I resemble that remark:)

[wjohn]

I will try to post the Video of Johns transformer tutorial including the "cat testing method", and how to "do an ingrid" in the next day

Paul


No cat was harmed in the testing of this transformer, the RSPCA was in attendance.

Thanks Ingrid and David for traveling down from QLD and NSW for the event.

We now have a new lexicon to add to DIYC, instead of saying 'letting out the magic smoke', we can say ' Doing an Ingrid' Thanks being a good sport and bringing a ray of fun to the Mini.

John.

[Goldie]

Sorry toodles, it was a great effort flying down from Qld., you must have the biggest Biceps by now, and Dave not only did you stay in one of the most frightening motels in Melbourne, you had to protect Toddles (with Artzy help of course), thanks guys for making the effort, l'm sure Dandenong was a bit of an eye opener.

[wjohn]

big What? Goldie, tut tut

[daviddth]

I was more looking for some to protect me FROM Toodles ;) Yeah that motel was sure interesting, and wont be on my list of places to stay again.

[TimW]

No cat was harmed in the testing of this transformer, the RSPCA was in attendance.


Hi

I've been thinking about the three wire cat method. (Cat-3?)

I thought the use of the rubber insulating gloves was particularly sensible.

... but I remember the RSPCA bloke did suggest one improvement:

"To be totally effective,the insulating gloves should be on the cat testing the transformer, not on the person holding the cat testing the transformer"

Also - remember to always have a spare cat just in case. If you insert the cat the wrong way around you might damage it. (would that be a cat-astrophe???)

Thankfully I see from the pic that you have more than one cat TP. Good planning :)

Tim