Welcome to the Provo Linux Users Group Website

Submitted by Ryan Simpkins on Sun, 2006-08-06 18:23.

Membership:
The Provo Linux Users Group welcomes everyone with an interest in Linux and Free/Open Source Software. Most of our members live in, or near, Utah valley. There is no membership fee. The only membership requirement is active participation.

Meetings:
Meetings are typically held on the second Wedensday of every month at 7:30pm. Please subscribe to the mailing list or watch this web site for additional details as that is subject to change. The meeting location is at Omniture (An Adobe Company) (click for location details).

February PLUG Meeting: Beginning Arduino

Submitted by Ryan Simpkins on Mon, 2010-02-01 11:23.
Date: February 10th, 2010
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Location: Omniture (Adobe)

PLUG:

If you have ever wanted to break in to the world of hardware hacking we have a treat for you this month. Arduino is an open hardware platform that lowers the barrier to really advanced embedded system designs. There are several interchangeable attachments (shields) you can add to your Arduino to increase its functionality. The basic board can be powered via USB, and there is an open source IDE available that will run on the most common OS platforms (including Linux). The Arduino platform has gathered a lot of interest from those that are new to the world of embedded programming due to its low cost and ease of use. Any geek worth his salt can get involved with limited time and financial investment.

This month PLUG is pleased to have Matthew Walker and Matt Nelson join forces to give us all an introductory look at Arduino. They will cover what you need to get started, basic circuit design, sensors, and more. Matt and Matt will have some examples of things you might want to get if you're interested in this platform. If you own a *duino please bring it to the meeting and show off your 750 point breadboarded robotics platform. ;-)

A full starter kit (everything you need) costs between $40-$60. While we couldn't get a user group discount from any of the distributors we asked, there is a possibility we can do a group purchase and get a volume discount if there is enough interest.

From Matthew Walker:

I've been a web developer for the last ten years, and I love programming. I have a consulting business, but I'm also employed full time at Marketecture, right across the street from Omniture. My preferred languages are Perl and PHP, but I like acquiring new skills, and have recently started to get into Android and Arduino development.

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PLUG Services

Submitted by Ryan Simpkins on Wed, 2008-12-17 13:23.

Everyone may not be aware of the services PLUG offers its membership. PLUG does not charge any dues, it is a 100% volunteer operated (dis)organization. We collectively happen to provide the following available to all members.

Mailing Lists

PLUG maintains two lists:

PLUG - This list is 100% unmoderated and can be high traffic. Over 450 people are subscribed. It is a singularly unique platform to discuss, with an audience of your peers, what matters to you. On topic items include: everything that is not considered offensive to members.

PLUG-Announce - This is a moderated list for meeting announcements only.

Web Site

Features include:
Member directory with statistics.
Local company index with statistics.
Local Linux contractors.
Polls, like this one regarding meetings.

LinkedIn Group

There are over 150 participants on the PLUG LinkedIn group. We generally do not permit recruiters to join this group (you won't get spam'd). To join, follow here.

IRC

This isn't limited to PLUG. It covers the entire state. Come talk now.

Jabber

jabber.plug.org - For the latest status please ask Ryan Simpkins

Meetings

Meeting details are posted to both mailing lists and plug.org. It is easier than ever to stay informed. If you would like to present, please contact Ryan.

Employment Help

The recent financial crisis reminded us how important being plugged-in to a network of professionals can be. You never know when you could find yourself jobless. Being an active participant in PLUG is a great way to reduce your risk. Don't be shy about promoting yourself on the PLUG list. We permit job postings, and we also permit seeker postings. Those who regularly participate often find new jobs within days of a "seeker" posting. Remember the list reaches over 450 Linux professionals and managers in our area (including a large number of recruiters).

Social & Professional Network

After most PLUG meetings we usually have a social/networking period. You can shoot pool, grab a snack, relax, and discuss things that matter to you. It is a great opportunity to get exposed to ideas that you may not normally think about. You might find your next job or business opportunity, or a solution to a challenging problem. We don't bite - honestly. Well, harleypig bites - we keep him chained up though.

Sponsorship

PLUG has various sponsorship opportunities available. Perhaps your business can sponsor a high-profile presenter, food for a meeting, discounts for PLUG members, or a special service. Nearly the entire membership is actively employed in various professional positions surrounding Linux/FOSS. It is a unique opportunity to gain brand recognition, and "street cred" with the FOSS community.

Volunteer Opportunities

You may not be a kernel hacker, but you can still give back to the FOSS community that has given us so much. PLUG needs help with the web site, server administration, PHP programming, mailing list management, meeting organization/presentation, employment.... the list goes on. If you'd like to give some of your time to further advance the cause of FOSS in our local community, PLUG is the perfect place to start.

There are now more ways than ever to participate. If you have an idea for a service you would like to see provided, please share it!

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