Fabman

What is Fabman?

Fabman is a machine access control (MAC) system that allows our machines to be managed more safely and easily. As of now, we currently only use it for the laser cutters, Raise3D printers, E1 soldering kits, and woodshop, but in the future, Fabman will be implemented on more machines and allow us to add helpful features to the checkout process.

 

How do I access Fabman?

Once you have completed the Texas Inventionworks Membership Quiz, you should have received an email from support@fabman.io in the email inbox associated with your Canvas account (can check in Canvas > Account > Settings). Otherwise, check your other emails (and possibly spam folder). If you run into issues with accessing your Fabman account, you may read the Fabman guide on the Home page of this Canvas course or message the #fabman-help channel on our Discord server. 

 

How is Fabman implemented for E1?

For E1, you need to scan the MAC in Garage with your phone in order to check in. A staff member will then hand you your E1 soldering kit for you to use in the E1 lab upstairs. When you return the E1 soldering kit to Garage, make sure to scan the MAC again and check out of Fabman. Fabman is not required to turn on the soldering stations. 

 

How is Fabman implemented for the laser cutters?

Each laser cutter has a MAC attached to it. Scan the MAC and check in to be able to use the laser cutter. You will sign into the computer using your own EID and password, then a staff member can log in to Ruby for you to upload your design. 

If you do not scan the MAC, you will not be able to start a job. If the MAC starts beeping and flashing red, click the checkmark button named "I'm here" at the bottom of the MAC. This tells the MAC that you are still using and watching the laser cutter. Once you are done using the laser cutter, click the X button named "Stop" to indicate that you are finished. This ensures that you are checked out.

 

How is Fabman implemented for Woodshop?

There is a MAC located on the desk at the entrance of Woodshop. You are required to scan the MAC, sign into Fabman, and check into Woodshop in order to access the space. Once scanned, you may use the woodshop tools and machines you are properly trained on. When leaving the Woodshop, you must scan the MAC and sign into Fabman again in order to check out of Woodshop.

How is Fabman implemented for the Raise3Ds?

There is a MAC located on the desk in DFAB where Raise3D prints are started. When asking to start a Raise3D print, the staff member will ask you to scan the MAC, sign into Fabman, and check-in to verify you are trained. Once scanned, the staff member will continue to start your print normally, as outlined in the Raise3D training module. 

Please watch the video below about how to use Fabman and address more troubleshooting issues.