Frequently Asked Questions

This page is under construction.  I'll try and anticipate as many of the questions about this series of projects as I can.  When I miss one, let me know!

• Why design many single-function devices instead of a do-everything tool?  Why not create a comprehensively multipurpose extension, instead of an open-ended series of idiosyncratic objects?  Brian Eno said it best: "The trouble begins with a design philosophy that equates 'more options' with 'greater freedom'. Designers struggle endlessly with a problem that is almost nonexistent for users... With tools, we crave intimacy."  A child teaches itself to use a hammer in just a few minutes of experimentation, and never, for the rest of its life, asks why it doesn't saw wood very well.  Do one thing, and do it well.
• What is the underlying USB interface?   I am using the FTDI USB-serial chip, rev 2, for the initial designs.  I plan to move to rev 3 for later designs, as this chip supports serial and also direct USB transactions, so would put a layer in place for future higher-bandwidth projects such as video and graphical displays.
• What desktop platforms will be supported?  The goal of this project is to support Linux, Mac and PC.  The FTDI USB solution provides excellent and mature driver support for all three platforms.  However, different desktop control software will have to be written for all three platforms and this could turn out to be a daunting task.  My initial experiments are for the PC only.  I have a friend who is looking into the feasibility of Java as the cross-platform app solution.  Stay tuned.
• Where can I get the hardware and software discussed here?  The long term goals of this site are to sell kits, completed boards, parts, lamps and toys and whatever other housings might be useful; and to distribute firmware and software apps.  These phases are several months away.  If you want to contribute web development time and skill, please get in touch.
• I have a great idea for a creative peripheral.  What should I do with it?  If it's just an idea and you have no plans or skills to develop it, you can drop me a line and I'll add it to our running list of prospective projects.  If you have the skills and time to do some or all of the development work, write me and we'll talk about coordination and collaboration and task sharing.

Thanks for your interest!