# Key Points from #hplusroadmap IRC Discussion (July 3, 2013)

• Participants criticized Create It REAL's software to block 3D printing of firearms as ineffective DRM, noting that firearms can be constructed from simple materials like pipes regardless of software restrictions.

• The conversation explored symbolic regression as a technique for discovering natural laws from data, referencing Cornell research that used this approach to derive equations for pendulum motion through genetic algorithms.

• Software-defined radio (SDR) equipment was discussed in detail, with recommendations ranging from inexpensive RTL-SDR dongles to more advanced options like BladeRF (~$400-600) and Ettus USRP (~$800) for transmission capabilities.

• A significant debate occurred about BioBricks in synthetic biology, with critics arguing they function primarily as a marketing campaign with limited practical utility, while defenders suggested they serve an important purpose in getting biologists to think in terms of reusable parts.

• The discussion highlighted a perceived gap in synthetic biology between theoretical frameworks and functional tools, suggesting that independent hackers without academic or business constraints might be better positioned to innovate with BioBricks.

• Participants noted the death of Douglas Engelbart, inventor of the computer mouse and pioneer of human-computer interaction, with expressions of respect for his contributions.

• The group discussed science fiction with biological themes, recommending authors like Greg Egan, Gregory Benford, David Brin, and Peter Watts, though many observed that biology-focused science fiction is often poorly executed.