Getting started in the makerspaces

Additional resources

Ask an expert

Charlie Heinz
Walter Breakerspace
HSL Makerspace
heinz062@umn.edu

Scott Spicer
Walter Breakerspace
spic0016@umn.edu

A guide for learning about and getting started on projects in the libraries makerspaces.

What is multimedia?

Multimedia includes the use of digital items to produce content or replicate and manipulate photos, audio, and video. These tools can be used in the makerspaces, Virtual Reality studio, and can be checked out for use at home or in our 1:Button studios specifically designed for recording audio and visual materials. Most items are checked out on a first come, first served basis from the Basement of Walter Library. Oculus Quest headsets can be checked out from the HSL service desk on the 5th floor.

Our multimedia tool selection also includes a variety of equipment that can help you with drawing, photography, and editing.

Our equipment and tools

Portable tools

 

 

Axidraw SE/A3

Found at: HSL Makerspace

  • Digital drawing tool
  • Can use a variety of writing implements
  • Able to draw on objects bigger than itself.

XP-PEN Deco Pro Drawing Tablet

Found at: Walter Breakerspace

  • 11"x6" drawing area
  • 7mm minimum arc shape
  • Double wheel and touchpad interface
  • Compatible with most computers and mainstream drawing softwares

A4 Light Table Tracing Pad

Found at: Walter Breakerspace

  • Even illumination with no flicker to assist with accurate tracing
  • Ultra thin: 4.0mm thick
  • Adjustable brightness
  • Active area is 11.85" x 8.82" (A4/printer paper dimensions)

HoverCam Solo 8 Plus

Found at: HSL Makerspace, Walter Breakerspace

  • High resolution video, photo, and document camera.
  • USB connection to computer for video output.
  • Zoom and mirror image functions
  • Built-in light

 

OrangeMonkie Foldio LightBox

Found at: HSL Makerspace, Walter Breakerspace

  • Take photos with perfect lighting
  • Provides an easily removable background for digital editing

Photography Cameras*

Found at: Walter Breakerspace

  • Canon Rebel DSLR camera (photo only)
  • Insta360 One X2 camera (for 360-degree photo capture)

*Tripod also available

Audio Recorders

Found at: Walter Breakerspace

  • Blue Snowball USB microphone
  • Blue Yeti USB microphone
  • Blue Snowflake USB microphone
  • Tascam DR-05 digital audio recorder (portable)
  • Zoom H2n digital audio recorder (portable)

Video Recorders*

Found at: Walter Breakerspace

  • Canon Vixia HD camcorder
  • Kodak Play Sport video recorder
  • Insta360 One X2 camera (for 360-degree video capture)

*Tripod also available

 

Virtual reality

Oculus Quest 2

Found at: HSL VR Studio

  • Portable equipment
  • Can check out from the Health Sciences Library

Valve Index

Found at: HSL VR Studio, Walter Breakerspace

  • Corded/anchored to a specific location
  • For use in the Virtual Reality studio (HSL) or the Walter Breakerspace

Microsoft Hololens 2

Found at: HSL VR Studio

  • Mixed reality smart glasses
  • For use in the Virtual Reality studio (HSL)

Additional resources

The libraries and makerspaces support all kinds of multimedia projects, whether they're class projects or passion projects! Visit the Media Equipment and Consultations page to learn how we can help you with:

  • Equipment for checkout
  • 1-on-1 consultations
  • Software / iMacs
  • 1:Button Studios
  • Virtual and augmented reality.
Last Updated: Sep 10, 2024 6:44 PM