dorkbotSF #39 September 10, 2008

Speakers:
Carl Pisaturo - Orbit 2
The Orbit 2 machine is a tabletop sized "kinetic light sculpture" which moves LEDs rapidly through space on 2 axes, each with its own speed control. It can be compared to a Ferris wheel riding on a merry-go-round. With the LEDs reaching speeds of up to 100 mph, the eye sees only streaks of colored light forming various patterns. Sort of like a mechanical fire spinner.
http://carlpisaturo.com

Jonathan Jaffe - RIAA vs You
Is making a music file available on Kazaa a copyright infringement, or must actual transfer of the file occur? If the RIAA has its way, you will be liable just for having music files in your Kazaa share folder, even if no one downloads a single file from you.

The courts are split on the issue, but encouraging developments indicate the RIAA may finally be losing its fight to extort money from you. Jonathan Jaffe will present the basics of the RIAA campaign against you, the main theory upon which the campaign is often based, and how the courts are beginning to reject that theory.

Rachel McConnell - Soft Circuits
Consider a Tribble that actually vibrates, or a pillow that lights up more brightly the harder you sit on it. And we are not talking about a circuit board with some fur hot-glued to it. Rachel has been electrifying soft toys for several years now, both on Instructables: Big Warm Fuzzy Secret Heart and Snailbot Races and at Make Magazine's Maker Faire. She'll be showing off some squishable but nevertheless electronic items, and discussing some techniques for making them.
http://makerfaire.com/pub/e/195

CASH BAR 21+

FREE Admission but donations much appreciated before 10pm, $5 after 10pm

Music from Blankethead after 10pm

Official Website: http://dorkbot.org/dorkbotsf/