Barry has been designing an open source MP3 player, and sees the Maker Faire as a perfect way to do some research for his project. He’d like to expand his project into automatic home applications.
Maker Fairs offer a great outlet for creative people, according to Barry, and he loves the hackerspace-like environment. Barry is a member of the Shanghai hackerspace XinCheJian, and is a professional robotics engineer with DFRobot. Shenzhen Maker Faire’s proximity to the enormous Hua Qiang Bei electronics markets is a huge bonus to him.
Did you bring anything to MF today?
I brought an open-source MP3 player that I’ve been working on for the last couple of days.
Why did you get started on that project?
I’m using it as a way to learn more about MP3 players and how they work. I hope to expand this to other applications, such as wiring it into homes.
Have you ever been to a MF before?
This is my first one.
What do you think so far?
I love that the Hackerspace theme is such a big part of what’s going on here. It gives people who do this kind of thing professionally a more creative outlet for their talents.
Do you think it’s important for China to have its own MFs?
Many of us know about the MFs in the USA, but for many Chinese DIYers it’s not possible to go. I think it offers a chance for a kind of reunion for all of the makers across the country. It brings together people with different sorts of expertise, such as hardware, programming, manufacturing, and design. Everyone has their special niche and MFs can get them into contact with one another.
What makes Shenzhen a good pace for the first Chinese MF?
Shenzhen is really the main electronics base in the country. People from nearby can go to the local markets, grab whatever they need, and put it together quickly for the MF. I think it’s great that there is so much talent in this city.
Do you belong to a Hackerspace?
XinCheJian, in Shanghai. I’ve been a participant from the beginning, about 2 years now. I’m a robotics engineer professionally, and the HS gives me a great opportunity to combine work and pleasure.