# Summary of #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (Jan 13, 2010)

* Several DIY microscopy resources were shared, including webcam microscope hacks from DIYbio groups and hackteria.org, showing growing interest in low-cost scientific instrumentation.

* The MIT Machines That Make (MTM) group was discussed for their work on an open-source, low-cost CNC mill called MTM A-Z, priced at $458.18, though there was debate about whether it was truly open source.

* A new Illumina HiSeq 2000 sequencing platform was mentioned, with claims of $10,000 whole genome sequencing becoming available in Hong Kong, marking a significant price reduction in genomic technology.

* DIY biology topics included discussion of DNA macroinjection techniques for plant cells, with references to successful experiments using large-diameter needles despite low success rates.

* Open source hardware and software tools were discussed, including PythonOCC (Python bindings for OpenCASCADE), FPGA design flows, and challenges converting software packages between Linux distributions.

* The concept of Dunbar's number (theoretical cognitive limit to stable social relationships) was discussed in relation to how technology and social structures like celebrity might effectively increase this limit.

* A new wiki for the Open Farm Tech project was being set up, with participants testing the site's performance (achieving 1474 requests per second).