Physical computing workshop

A breadboard on the workshop desk, covered in jumper wires and resistors. A Basic Stamp microprocessor blinking LEDs. The intention was to avoid the screen entirely for the duration of the workshop, to concentrate on simple interactions between sensors and outputs. But here we are, staring at PBasic and JAL while making lots of LEDs blink.

Notes from the “Making Sense” physical computing workshop at Atelier Nord, Oslo, 22–25 September 2004. Organised by Erich Berger (of 7 Mile Boots fame), with Helen Evans and Heiko Hansen of HeHe giving context and direction to the technical process.

Breadboard with microprocessor, resistors and jumper wires at the Physcomp workshop
Breadboard with microprocessor, resistors and jumper wires at the Physcomp workshop

A lot of it brought back memories of school, circuit diagrams, resistance calculations. It was great to refresh the memory. We spent a lot of time translating circuit diagrams onto breadboards, and programming both PIC and Basic Stamp microprocessors.

Programming a PIC microprocessor from a laptop at the Physcomp workshop
Programming a PIC microprocessor from a laptop at the Physcomp workshop

Erich is now setting up a Physcomp lab at Atelier Nord to support art and design projects in Oslo, perhaps alongside some regular meetings (entitled Atelier Nerd). Many projects I’d like to pursue, this should be a great resource.