How Do I Get Authorized?

Most of the equipment at PS1 requires authorization before you can use it. Authorization will acquaint you with basic operational and safety procedures, but doesn't generally include extensive instruction on how to best use each piece of equipment. For that, you have several options, including online sources, classes at one of the several Chicagoland organizations that offer them, or a knowledgeable member.

You are responsible for becoming properly authorized, and access to most equipment is via the honor system (the main exceptions being the computer-controlled tools, e.g. the ShopBot or the Epilog, which require that your authorization be recorded on the member site in order to log in to the computer). Negligent or improper use of a piece of equipment can result in loss of access. See the Authorization Policy for details.

Authorization requirements can be found on the wiki page for most pieces of equipment. Tools should have an [Template:EquipmentPage|equipment label] https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/Equipment_Label_Example on it that lists the appropriate wiki page URL.

Regularly scheduled authorizations should be listed on the PS1 calendar. Other authorizations are done on request. Contact the volunteer authorizer directly, or post a request on the PS1 mailing list. For further details about the process, visit Authorization: An Overview for New Members

See also a list of authorization processes that currently require improvement.

Laser Cutter

Currently scheduled on a request basis, conducted by a limited number of trainer/authorizers. Check the mailing list and calendar for scheduled sessions, or start a new thread with a date and time that works for you. These happen frequently, but irregularly. For best results, find other members that also want to be authorized and agree on some good days and times that work for the group.

3D Printer

Currently scheduled on a request basis. Check the mailing list for scheduled sessions, or start a new thread requesting a class with a date and time that works for you. The MakerBot Replicator and 3dSystems CubePro do not require authorization.

Cold Metal Machines (Tier 1)

Authorizations for many of the most commonly used metal tools, including the drill press, bandsaw, Johnson bandsaw, chop saw, belt sander, bench grinder, and angle grinders, are bundled together into a single session. Search the calendar for Tier 1 Metals, or monitor the mailing list. Tier 1 authorization is a prerequisite for authorization on any of the other metalworking tools.

Metal Lathe, Bridgeport, and Gear Head Drill Press

Anna Yu performs authorization for the Clausing Lathe every Tuesday. You must email her first. Her contact info is on the side of the lathe.

Authorizations for the Bridgeport CNC Mill and Boice Crane Drill Press are available on request. Contact the area host or post a request to the mailing list.

Before requesting authorization on these machines, you should complete Tier 1 metals certification.

Mitsui Surface Grinder

Authorization for the Mitsui Surface Grinder requires prior Tier 1 authorization and authorization on the Bridgeport CNC Mill. Request authorization by contacting the area host or posting a notice to the mailing list.

Hot Metals

Authorizations for various hot metal tools, including the MIG welder, TIG welder, and plasma cutter, are performed on request, often in conjunction with hot metals office hours. It is recommended that you contact the person holding office hours in advance if you are interested in authorization. See the calendar for details, including contact info. You must complete Tier 1 authorization before seeking hot metals authorization.

Wood Shop Tools

Authorizations are generally Thursday evenings. Check the events calendar

Sewing Machines

No certification is required for the tabletop sewing machines. For the Singer 20U Industrial Sewing Machine, there is a tutorial video, followed by a required authorization session with Shellie Lewis (Arts & Crafts Area Host). The Singer Serger 14T948DS differential feed sewing machine also requires authorization. Shellie generally holds Arts & Crafts & Digital Media & Knitting office hours weekly and offers instruction then. Check the Google calendar for times and contact information.

ShopBot

There are 2 required classes for complete Shopbot Authorization. The first class is a software-only class to cover CNC concepts and the VCarve software. This class is unlimited capacity, so anyone can attend. The class is a prerequisite for the second class, the hands-on ShopBot authorization, which will be significantly shortened since it will only cover the specifics of the tool itself.

If a class is not scheduled in the Meetup.com calendar, check the mailing list for scheduled sessions. If one has not happened for some time, you would like to request a class for different times than are regularly available, start a new thread requesting a class with a date and time that works for you and contact the ara host or volunteer authorizer.

Front Door

Come to Orientation on the 4th Sunday of the month at 4:00pm and come to a general meeting on Tuesday at 8:00pm and get your ID verified by two board members.