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Mailing list FAQ: Difference between revisions
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The trolls are generally harmless but can be dangerous if overfed. | The trolls are generally harmless but can be dangerous if overfed. | ||
Please help move this information to a more appropriate place. But make sure it's findable. There's a fair chance a new person might read FAQs. There's zero chance they'll search the wiki for an answer to a question they didn't know they were going to ask yet. Even if it's already been asked many times. | |||
= Mailing Lists = | = Mailing Lists = | ||
==What are your mailing lists?== | ==What are your mailing lists?== | ||
see [[Mailing_List]] | |||
We generally host them on Google Groups. At the moment we make use of the following mailing lists, this FAQ applies to all of them: | We generally host them on Google Groups. At the moment we make use of the following mailing lists, this FAQ applies to all of them: | ||
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==How do I unsubscribe== | ==How do I unsubscribe== | ||
Why do you want to? If the list is too noisy/busy please see [[#Q: this list is too noisy!|this question]]. If you actually want to unsubscribe then go to [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/subscribe this link] and you should be able to unsubscribe. If this, for some reason, doesn't work then google "london hackspace mailing list", click on the "google groups" link then "edit my membership" on the right hand side the click the 'unsubscribe' button on the bottom right. | Why do you want to? If the list is too noisy/busy please see [[#Q: this list is too noisy!|this question]]. If you actually want to unsubscribe then go to [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/subscribe this link] and you should be able to unsubscribe. If this, for some reason, doesn't work then google "london hackspace mailing list", click on the "google groups" link then "edit my membership" on the right hand side the click the 'unsubscribe' button on the bottom right. | ||
==This list is too noisy!== | ==This list is too noisy!== | ||
Sorry, the mailing list is very busy (currently at 1,200+ posts per month.) Obviously this can be a lot to keep up with so remember there are alternatives to the 'fire hose' approach: going to [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/subscribe 'edit my membership'] in google groups you can change to a digest mode, or use the google groups [https://groups.google.com/forum/?fromgroups#!forum/london-hack-space forum] view to see the items as more coherent threads. | Sorry, the mailing list is very busy (currently at 1,200+ posts per month.) Obviously this can be a lot to keep up with so remember there are alternatives to the 'fire hose' approach: going to [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/subscribe 'edit my membership'] in google groups you can change to a digest mode, or use the google groups [https://groups.google.com/forum/?fromgroups#!forum/london-hack-space forum] view to see the items as more coherent threads. | ||
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==ARGH, I need a Google account to subscribe to the list. You're evil!== | ==ARGH, I need a Google account to subscribe to the list. You're evil!== | ||
To subscribe, just email london-hack-space+subscribe@googlegroups.com, or equivalent for other groups. | To subscribe, just email london-hack-space+subscribe@googlegroups.com, or equivalent for other groups. | ||
Similarly, you can unsubscribe using london-hack-space+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com. | Similarly, you can unsubscribe using london-hack-space+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com. | ||
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==Hey, I've just discovered the most amazing site/want to share my homepage/found something funny== | ==Hey, I've just discovered the most amazing site/want to share my homepage/found something funny== | ||
The mailing list is not reddit: please search the [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/topics archives] to see whether it's been posted before. If so, please consider whether you're bringing something new to the discussion before posting. You might be better off posting it in [[IRC]] or on the [[Suppliers]] or [[Library]] page, or perhaps adding to the next [[News]] article. | The mailing list is not reddit: please search the [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space/topics archives] to see whether it's been posted before. If so, please consider whether you're bringing something new to the discussion before posting. You might be better off posting it in [[IRC]] or on the [[Suppliers]] or [[Library]] page, or perhaps adding to the next [[News]] article. | ||
==I want to share my politics/religious opinion/philosophy== | ==I want to share my politics/religious opinion/philosophy== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] and [[Mailing List#Etiquette]] | |||
No chance. This is a discussion group for topics immediately relevant to London Hackspace: please take your discussions to another forum. Some questions may be relevant, but please think carefully before posting (ask on [[IRC]] if you're not sure). | No chance. This is a discussion group for topics immediately relevant to London Hackspace: please take your discussions to another forum. Some questions may be relevant, but please think carefully before posting (ask on [[IRC]] if you're not sure). | ||
==I want people to sign my petition== | ==I want people to sign my petition== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] and [[Mailing List#Etiquette]] | |||
Please don't ask the list: it's not a free way of lobbying a large number of people. Your post will be treated as spam, and you will find your account put on moderation very quickly. | Please don't ask the list: it's not a free way of lobbying a large number of people. Your post will be treated as spam, and you will find your account put on moderation very quickly. | ||
==I want to tell people about an upcoming event/see who's coming== | ==I want to tell people about an upcoming event/see who's coming== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Unless it's tomorrow, it's best to add it to the [[Other Events]] page, and then link people to it. If it's a big event some time in the future, you might even want to create a dedicated page for it, like [[CCC Camp 2011]]. Again, IRC can be a great way to gauge interest. | Unless it's tomorrow, it's best to add it to the [[Other Events]] page, and then link people to it. If it's a big event some time in the future, you might even want to create a dedicated page for it, like [[CCC Camp 2011]]. Again, IRC can be a great way to gauge interest. | ||
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==Hey, why don't we use a forum?== | ==Hey, why don't we use a forum?== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Forums tend to encourage long and impenetrable threads and "ME TOO"s. A web interface requires deliberate visiting (so forums die out quickly), an email gateway makes things hard to follow (posts can be edited), and a dual interface encourages a disconnect between people using email and visiting on the web. They also require multiple levels of moderation, and an overhead keeping threads and boards organised. | Forums tend to encourage long and impenetrable threads and "ME TOO"s. A web interface requires deliberate visiting (so forums die out quickly), an email gateway makes things hard to follow (posts can be edited), and a dual interface encourages a disconnect between people using email and visiting on the web. They also require multiple levels of moderation, and an overhead keeping threads and boards organised. | ||
==Top posting is the way, why are people so awkward here? == | ==Top posting is the way, why are people so awkward here? == | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Any modern client will hide the quoted text, whether you top-post, bottom-post or reply in-line, so almost nobody cares. Even fewer people care about debating it on the list, so please don't. | Any modern client will hide the quoted text, whether you top-post, bottom-post or reply in-line, so almost nobody cares. Even fewer people care about debating it on the list, so please don't. | ||
= About the space = | = About the space = | ||
==I want to visit | ==I want to visit other than on a Tuesday, what's the deal?== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] and [[GettingStarted#In_Real_Life]] | |||
You are welcome to visit when ever you want. That being said we can't guarantee that anyone will be there other than during our [[Weekly_meetings| weekly Tuesday meeting]]. These meetings are social in nature (although hacking does occur) and open to all. If you want it there will be someone giving tours and introductions to the space. These meetings kick off around 6pm and finish late. | You are welcome to visit when ever you want. That being said we can't guarantee that anyone will be there other than during our [[Weekly_meetings| weekly Tuesday meeting]]. These meetings are social in nature (although hacking does occur) and open to all. If you want it there will be someone giving tours and introductions to the space. These meetings kick off around 6pm and finish late. | ||
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==Just Tuesdays? I'm busy on Tuesdays== | ==Just Tuesdays? I'm busy on Tuesdays== | ||
The space is run by its members, and it's possible that no one will be there to let you in. There's also a chance anyone present will be too busy to give a tour or show you the ropes. In the past this has lead to people feeling lost and unwelcome, for this reason we highly encourage you come along to our Tuesday social night where there are proper introductions. | The space is run by its members, and it's possible that no one will be there to let you in. There's also a chance anyone present will be too busy to give a tour or show you the ropes. In the past this has lead to people feeling lost and unwelcome, for this reason we highly encourage you come along to our Tuesday social night where there are proper introductions. | ||
==I'm a member now, can I get my card added?== | ==I'm a member now, can I get my card added?== | ||
Yes, once your standing order is received your name will be added to the list of paying subscribers and we'll add you to doorbot so you have access. You will only be | Yes, once your standing order is received your name will be added to the list of paying subscribers and we'll add you to doorbot so you have access. You will only be granted access once your name is on the paid list and this can take a few days as standing orders can take a while to process. | ||
To add your card to the doorbot access control systems, come along when someone else is in the space and hopefully they'll be able to show you how to add your card using the membership kiosk, obviously the best time to do this is on a Tuesday but if this is not possible check on [[IRC]] or the list. | |||
It is possible to use the membership kiosk to add a card to a membership account that has yet to receive payment, though the card won't actually open any doors or operate any tool until your payment has cleared. This way, you can come to an open evening, register on the night and get a card ready to go when your payment clears. | |||
==When will my membership subscription clear?== | ==When will my membership subscription clear?== | ||
see [[Membership]] | |||
Payments can take up to 3 working days from the date of your standing order, depending on your bank. Our reconciliation script runs at 5am every day to update the database. Assuming you've got the right reference in your payment, there's nothing to worry about until ''at least'' 4 working days after the date of your standing order. If you urgently need access to the space, get hold of someone on IRC and we'll see what we can sort out. | Payments can take up to 3 working days from the date of your standing order, depending on your bank. Our reconciliation script runs at 5am every day to update the database. Assuming you've got the right reference in your payment, there's nothing to worry about until ''at least'' 4 working days after the date of your standing order. If you urgently need access to the space, get hold of someone on IRC and we'll see what we can sort out. | ||
==I'm a member now, how do I get a storage box?== | ==I'm a member now, how do I get a storage box?== | ||
You pick it up. In the members storage area there is a pile of empty unmarked boxes, claim one, pick a lid, put your name on it and then put it on a shelf. Congratulations! you now have storage. If you can't find any empty boxes or there is no space for you box ask for help, sometimes the boxes end up hidden or some shelf space can be found. If you use the last bit of reasonable space on the shelving or the last box (or if either one or the other have run out) please email the [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space list] so we can order more. | You pick it up. In the members storage area there is a pile of empty unmarked boxes, claim one, pick a lid, put your name on it and then put it on a shelf. Congratulations! you now have storage. Use the membership kiosk to print a label to go on it. If you can't find any empty boxes or there is no space for you box ask for help, sometimes the boxes end up hidden or some shelf space can be found. If you use the last bit of reasonable space on the shelving or the last box (or if either one or the other have run out) please email the [http://groups.google.com/group/london-hack-space list] so we can order more. | ||
==Can you help me hack Yahoo/Hotmail accounts? How do I use Backtrack? How do I become hacker?== | ==Can you help me hack Yahoo/Hotmail accounts? How do I use Backtrack? How do I become hacker?== | ||
We're [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hack_(hobby) not that kind of hacker group]. Some of our members are interested in it and some do it as a living but we do [[Projects|other things]] as well. | We're [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hack_(hobby) not that kind of hacker group]. Some of our members are interested in it and some do it as a living but we do [[Projects|other things]] as well. | ||
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* jobs agency | * jobs agency | ||
There are companies that do these things as a business, and have advantages of scale and paying customers that we don't have. | There are companies that do these things as a business, and have advantages of scale (like having paid support staff) and paying customers that we don't have. | ||
That said, it's unlikely that anyone will mind you (for example) downloading a driver, or spending an afternoon working "from home" on your laptop if your internet's broken. Just put an extra donation in the jar to make up for it. If in doubt, ask the list. | That said, it's unlikely that anyone will mind you (for example) downloading a driver, or spending an afternoon working "from home" on your laptop if your internet's broken. Just put an extra donation in the jar to make up for it. If in doubt, ask the list. Never register a company, bank account or domain name using the Hackspace address. | ||
= Getting rid of stuff = | = Getting rid of stuff = | ||
==I have [large item X] can I store it at the space?== | ==I have [large item X] can I store it at the space?== | ||
OK, this isn't an FAQ but it should be, it even has it's own [[Guides/Bringing_items_to_the_space| page]] and there is no default answer. The reason we request that you ask this is that the space is already very full (both with tools and projects). Large items eat into our already limited space and any large items that you want to bring in MUST be discussed on the mailing list. | OK, this isn't an FAQ but it should be, it even has it's own [[Guides/Bringing_items_to_the_space| page]] and there is no default answer. The reason we request that you ask this is that the space is already very full (both with tools and projects). Large items eat into our already limited space and any large items that you want to bring in MUST be discussed on the mailing list. | ||
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==Is the laser cutter working yet?== | ==Is the laser cutter working yet?== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Has someone posted to the list to say that it is? in that case '''NO'''. | |||
Has someone posted to the list to say that it is? in that case '''NO'''. We have a small team that maintains the laser cutter on a volunteer basis. As an unpaid volunteer, we cannot guarantee a service level agreement you'd expect from a more expensive commercial provider. Also note there are lead time delays getting replacement parts (often up to several weeks). When the laser cutter is working the list will be told, until that point be patient or please find an alternate workshop for your urgent needs. | |||
==I'm interested in the laser cutter....== | ==I'm interested in the laser cutter....== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
The [[Equipment/LaserCutter| Laser cutter]] is a very delicate and expensive piece of kit, please read the [[Equipment/LaserCutter|page]] on it and come to a training session; these are held most Wednesdays or Thursdays, to sign up for training please subscribe to the mailing list and _wait_ for a signup sheet to be posted. | The [[Equipment/LaserCutter| Laser cutter]] is a very delicate and expensive piece of kit, please read the [[Equipment/LaserCutter|page]] on it and come to a training session; these are held most Wednesdays or Thursdays, to sign up for training please subscribe to the mailing list and _wait_ for a signup sheet to be posted. | ||
Please | Please feel free to inquire about training but please do not add yourself to the wiki list until a session is scheduled; sessions are run as frequently as possible and are first come first served. | ||
Please note, we will not: | Please note, we will not: | ||
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==Can I cut X on the laser cutter?== | ==Can I cut X on the laser cutter?== | ||
Maybe, check the [[Equipment/LaserCutter| wiki page]]. If it's not listed find out if it contains [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine chlorine]; some plastics do, if you put them in the laser cutter you will create chlorine gas, which is not good. Materials of an unknown origin should be [[Equipment/LaserCutter#Chlorine_Testing|tested for chlorine.]] | Maybe, check the [[Equipment/LaserCutter| wiki page]]. If it's not listed find out if it contains [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine chlorine]; some plastics do, if you put them in the laser cutter you will create chlorine gas, which is not good. Materials of an unknown origin should be [[Equipment/LaserCutter#Chlorine_Testing|tested for chlorine.]] | ||
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==Are people interested in a workshop on X== | ==Are people interested in a workshop on X== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Yes. | Yes. | ||
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==I'm working on awesome project X, can you help with...? ''or'' help me make Facebook V 2.0...''or''...I'm a student looking for X for project Y...== | ==I'm working on awesome project X, can you help with...? ''or'' help me make Facebook V 2.0...''or''...I'm a student looking for X for project Y...== | ||
see [[Mailing List Clichés]] | |||
Short version: probably. | Short version: probably. | ||
