[chbot] CHCH Robotics Group, meeting notes 15 Aug 2016

[Mark Atherton]

Hello everyone,

Enthusiastic turnout, with 22 attendees and $22 collected and 
transferred to BR05 account. Balance is in the donation box.

New members: Sean, and Shaune.

With thanks on behalf of the group,

Mark Atherton

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Brindsley brought in a low cost pick and place machine, along with IR 
reflow oven. Huge amount of interest. Since borrowing the equipment, it 
had quite a few unexpected issues that needed to be understood 
(including some subtle component orientation puzzles).

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Mark B brought in several WiFi controlled mains lights, and in-line 
power controllers which were discussed last meeting. He is planning to 
create a quick-start guide for MQTT/Node-Red integration.

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Mark A talked about remote management of the radio club Heat Pumps. Main 
issues revolved about distribution of the Infra Red control signals, and 
associated opportunity for feature creep.

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Volker talked about trials and tribulations with 18650 LiOn cells, and 
size differences with/without protection. Discussion moved on and 
included various low cost display technologies, and laser cut Arduino cases.

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William reported on his watch/clock project, now with accelerometer.

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Andy demonstrated the latest item in his HP equipment museum; an HP 
5036A Microprocessor Lab, in pristine condition, complete with full 
manual, and attaché case (Mr Bond...)

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Robin report that his high power invertor project is proceeding nicely; 
he plans to do a demo next meeting.