Category: Advocacy

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Retro Computing & Gaming Day at TOG

Join us for an afternoon of retro computing and classic gaming as we celebrate the golden age of vintage systems and consoles! Whether you’re a long-time collector, a retro gaming enthusiast, or just curious about the technology of the past, this event is the perfect opportunity to explore and relive the magic of classic computing and gaming.

What to Expect:

Neo Geo Pocket Color: Experience the vibrant world of SNK’s handheld console, known for its rich library of 2D fighting games and unique clicky thumbstick.

Sega Saturn & Dreamcast: Immerse yourself in the legendary Sega Saturn and Dreamcast, two consoles that pushed the boundaries of gaming with innovative 3D graphics and online capabilities.

Vintage Computing Systems: A variety of classic machines will be available to explore, offering a hands-on look at the evolution of computing and gaming from the 80s and 90s.

Activities:

  • Hands-on Demonstrations: Get up close with vintage computers and consoles, testing out classic games and software.
  • Show and Tell: Bring along your own retro systems, share their history, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, 5th April 2025
  • Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: TOG Hackerspace
  • Cost: Free (Donations welcome via Eventbrite)

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/retro-computing-gaming-day-at-tog-tickets-1299309201799?aff=oddtdtcreator

Want to showcase your own system? Email us to reserve a table!

Also happening at TOG: Earlier in the day, we’re hosting a Soldering Workshop! If you’re interested in learning or improving your soldering skills, check out the details and register here: https://www.tog.ie/2025/03/soldering-workshop-3/

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Tog Hackerspace at the Phoenix Amateur Radio Club Annual Radio Rally

We are excited to announce that we will have a stand at the Phoenix Amateur Radio Club Annual Radio Rally on Sunday, February 16th, 2025. The event will take place at Coolmine Community School, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

This rally is a great opportunity for amateur radio enthusiasts, electronics hobbyists, and makers to come together, exchange ideas, and explore the latest in radio technology. Whether you’re a licensed operator, an SWL (shortwave listener), or just curious about the world of radio, there will be plenty to see and do.

At our stand, we’ll be showcasing some of the projects and activities from Tog Hackerspace, including:

  • Amateur Radio and SDR (Software-Defined Radio) demonstrations
  • Homebrew electronics and DIY repair projects
  • IoT and embedded systems that integrate with radio communications
  • Information on upcoming workshops and events at Tog

We’re always eager to chat about all things radio, hacking, and making—so be sure to stop by! Whether you want to discuss your latest radio setup, learn about our hackerspace, or just geek out about RF technology, we’d love to meet you.

Admission to the rally includes access to a variety of traders, exhibits, and talks from experienced operators. And of course, tea and sandwiches will be available on the day to keep everyone fueled up for a great day of radio and tech.

Mark your calendars, and we’ll see you there!

For more details on the rally, check out the Phoenix Amateur Radio Club (EI2PAR).

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If you’re interested in joining Tog Hackerspace or learning more about our events, visit www.tog.ie or drop by one of our open nights.

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South East Makerspace is looking for a new home

Our friends in South East Makerspace (SEMS) are looking for a new home. Details of the sort of building they are looking for are below.

The old space at Thomas Hill is no more. As a result, we are looking for alternative premises in Waterford City and the surrounding region.

So how might you help? Do you know of any properties that fit the
following criteria?
– a premises that might consider the “Vacant Premises Arts Scheme”
(rates waiver possible)
– running water
– toilet and sink
– mains power
– => 80sqm
– 2 rooms or 1 easily partitioned
– ventilated
– 24hr access

More info (flyer):
https://semkr.w3cdn.eu/sems_new_premises.png

You can reach us here:
info@southeastmakerspace.org
https://www.southeastmakerspace.org/contact

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Repair Café Round Up

An event that was months in the works took place last week. We have been working on bringing a RepairCafe back to Dublin and it turned out brilliantly. https://www.tog.ie/2022/04/repair-cafe/

We had 36 items in for repair over the course of the day. Each one had a story and history behind it. Our visitors didn’t want to see it just end up in landfill. They wanted to see the items live on.

There were significant costs such as additional insurance, a PAT tester and PAT training. Without support from the @Accenture_Irl funding on the @ChangexHQ platform, it would not have been possible. Thanks to them we could put on this event. #AccentureSustainabilityChallenge

We also need to thank our local @RSIreland for the consumables that were used in many of the electronic/electrical repairs.

Lastly, we need to say thanks to all the fixers. We had both members of @TOG_Dublin and non-members helping out on the day. Without you, it would have just been an empty room. We will see you all at the next cafe in three months.

Check out more photos in our gallery from the event.

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Welding Workshop Night

Below is a report from Sophie on a recent Welding workshop night in Tog.

“ I am a new TOG member. I have been interested in learning to weld for a while, so I sent out an email to the member’s list. I asked if there were any proficient welders that would be interested in teaching me the basics. 

Patrick responded, offering to teach me. A few more members followed up requesting to join and it became a workshop.

Patrick is a great teacher and we had loads of fun learning and practising together. Thanks again!

This is what I love about Tog. If you want to learn something, you’re guaranteed to have someone that has done it before and is willing to help you. It’s a great community of makers and curious brains.”

We are always open for new members to join. Pop along to one of our open nights to learn more.

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Balbriggan Mini Maker Day

The Our Balbriggan Loves Learning festival will take place from April 19-30 and will explore a range of learning and upskilling opportunities. As part of the festival, there will be a Balbriggan Mini Maker Day on Saturday 23rd from 10 am till 5 pm in Balbriggan Library, Saint George’s Square, Balbriggan, CO. Dublin. K32 TW27.

The day is open to visitors both young and old for a day of family-friendly workshops and maker showcases. On the day there will be a mix of workshops suitable for all ages, from coding and game crafting to lego making and LED art.

There will be an abundance of activities for small kids and big kids too. An exciting show and tell area where Makers will showcase their crafts and you’ll discover the art of making.

Tog will be on hand to showcase what our makers get up to including homemade satellite receives, IOT air quality sensors and metalwork. Drop by our stand and say hello.

For more information about the event please visit.

https://balbriggan.ie/mini-maker-day/

Update Check out our photos from the day.

https://www.tog.ie/gallery/nggallery/all/balbriggan-mini-maker-day-22