• VisualTAPAS DRIE etching simulator was introduced as an open-source MEMS process-modeling tool, enabling hobbyists to simulate deep reactive-ion etching steps before committing to fabrication.  
• PandaBoard was highlighted as a low-cost, high-performance ARM development platform suitable for embedded AI, BCI, and real-time sensor applications.  
• The MCAD library for OpenSCAD and the 2010 iGEM Alberta “Genomikon” Biobricks kit were cited as complementary resources for open-source mechanical CAD and synthetic-biology prototyping, respectively.  
• A proposal emerged to create a community-run “journal-club” wiki with standardized citation and annotation features, aiming to replace fragmented comment sections on existing journals and integrate with PLoS and Zotero workflows.  
• Sphere Fluidics droplet-microfluidics platform was showcased via a demo video, illustrating how picoliter droplet generation can be leveraged for high-throughput biology and chemistry experiments.  
• Granule-extruder RepRap variants were revisited as a route to on-site filament production; participants noted the original wiki and team had gone dormant and brainstormed ways to revive the effort.  
• OpenPCR’s 202 % Kickstarter success was critiqued for prioritizing marketing and outsourced Ponoko laser-cutting over hacker-space local manufacturing, sparking debate on cost-effective, community-based hardware production.  
• A detailed personal budget (~$20 k/year) was shared to illustrate how basic living expenses limit discretionary spending on DIY science hardware such as fluorometers, EEG rigs, RTMS devices, RepRaps, and CEB presses.  
• Attendees planned to converge at the December Humanity+ conference at Caltech, coordinating $250 round-trip flights, LA light-rail logistics, and informal 3-D-printer meet-ups during conference breaks.