# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion

• Users discussed protein synthesis equipment available on eBay, including an Applied Biosystems Peptide Synthesizer ($1,000) and a Millipore MilliGen DNA Synthesizer ($750), debating the practicality of purchasing and repairing such specialized lab equipment.

• The conversation compared cell-free protein expression systems with cellular production methods, concluding that while both have comparable speeds, cellular production remains more efficient for macroscopic-scale protein synthesis.

• Participants explored the potential for developing open source retrosynthetic analysis tools and discussed technical challenges in creating machines capable of reliably synthesizing proteins of arbitrary length.

• LibreCAD (http://librecad.org/) was highlighted as an open source CAD alternative that forked from QCAD after the latter transitioned to a commercial model.

• A user named juri_ mentioned developing an open source electron microscope project with a proposed budget of $250,000, though detailed specifications or a bill of materials weren't available in the log.

• The group briefly discussed 3D printing technology applied to food production, specifically noting a commercially available chocolate 3D printer, with one user humorously preferring "6-axis milled" chocolate.