Welcome to the temporary home of machinecollective.org! Machinecollective is specialized in design and production of custom control surfaces and kits for physical computing. We support several popular development platforms and interfaces.

Currently under development: Prototyping modules for physical interface development

In spite of all the smart, multifunctional and state-of-the-art controllers that are commercially available today, there has always been demand for custom physical interfaces and specialized controllers. That's why we have developed a modular prototyping platform. The prototyping modules are aimed at researchers, artists, musicians, circuitbenders and performers who want to use high quality controls without spending too much time on manufacturing or trying to find a suitable enclosure.

Machinecollective understands your needs and we're here to help you out! We are working on a range of modules based on frequently used components, sensors and indicators. The prototyping modules are designed to work with development platforms such as Arduino and Wiring. The modules can also be used for other purposes such as circuitbending, DIY synths, analog sequencers or plain old electronics projects.

The modular prototyping concept is based on rapid prototyping taken to a higher level: configure, assemble, connect and interact.

1. A specialized controller is required for your application, project or installation.
2. Select the modules you need (or create new modules and share them with the community).
3. Order them through our site, or source/create your own.
   
4. Build, connect and configure your control surface using your favorite development platform.
   
5. Test the new controller in your setup / environment.
   
6. It will be possible to have a custom control surface manufactured, based on the modules you have used in your prototype.
   
7. Store your prototyping modules for future projects or continue to use your modular control surface in your setup.

Prototyping modules consist of 3 configurable components:

• Acrylic top panel (with/without components)
• Aluminium base (with/without machined holes and connectors)
• Acrylic bottom panel (with/without mounting options for pcb's)

We are currently developing modules with components such as potentiometers, slide potentiometers, buttongrids, toggle switches, lcd's, FSR/LDR's, velocity sensitive pads, touchscreens, etc. More information about all different options will be available soon.

The list of supported software is always expanding, but here’s an overview of software environments that are frequently used in conjunction with physical interfaces:

• Processing
• Max/MSP
• VVVV
• Java / C++ / Python / Delphi / Etc.
• Adobe Flash (through xml socket connections)

Communication with a wide range of software and hardware is possible through protocols such as MIDI, OSC, RS232, TCP/UDP, DMX and USB. The software listed above is frequently used as an intermediate layer to convert in- and output (bi-directional communication) between devices and applications.

Benefits of the modular prototyping platform:

• Rapid prototyping of custom control surfaces and physical interfaces.
• Open source and modular design: unlimited configurations and options.
• Concept is based on existing development platforms with large communities and an open source code base.
• Modules are far less vulnerable than controller prototypes built on breadboard or prototyping PCB's.
• Aesthetics: clean design and high build quality, handmade in The Netherlands (with some help of the machines).
• Custom panels and design modifications at competitive rates.

You will be able to order the original parts, components and modules directly from us within a few weeks. It's also possible to use your own tools, a local FabLab or a TechShop to create the parts you need. Please send an e-mail to notify [at] machinecollective dotdot org if you wish to be notified once the full site is up and running.

The modular prototyping platform is inspired by the friendly communities and excellent work of monome.org, midibox.org and stribe.org. Welcome to the wonderful world of open source hardware and personal fabrication. Our work is shared under a Creative Commons (by-nc-sa) licence. We encourage custom configurations, hacks, mods and bends. Machinecollective is a project of XNDR Industries.