There are designers out there (Dave Hakkens) concerned with solving problems instead of just making something that someone can buy. By putting us in a position where we can built, modify or replace broken or outdated bits of technology, we are not only helping ourselves but also the environment.
Despite the freedom technology offers us, it can feel like we are intrinsically tied to our brand devices, but as the Maker Movement continues to grow we are being offered new ways of customising objects specifically to our taste (Whisky Elements); it's inevitable we should be given the chance to customise our own technology.
PI-TOP are offering a kit to build your own laptop and by doing so enhancing your knowledge in hardware and software. It is said that knowledge is power, and once you have got to grips with the mysteries that make your device work you can custom build to suit your own future projects. The PI-TOP team offer free lessons for beginners and advanced users with the hope that one day you will be building and designing your own products. Like Hakkens' Phonebloks, there are modular attachments to further boost the functionality of your designs. By making your own hardware you are simultaneously being given a knowledge in computer programming and with self-help worksheets and programmes the project is designed to educate people across the board.
PI-TOP
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