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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the mechanical lab located?
The lab is located in room 307 of the Michelson Center for Physics (MCP).

Who may use the mechanical lab?
The lab is open to all University students for work on their research and other University-related projects.

What is available for use in the lab?
Workstations with engineering design and analysis software, 3D printers, a large format 2D plotter, a standard format 2D printer/scanner/sender, and a variety of hand tools are available.  For details, please refer to the resources page.

How do I get access?
There is no formal process for granting access to the lab.  Please simply contact a member of the staff to arrange a brief orientation during your first visit.

Is training on use of the resources in the lab available?
Yes!  Informal training is provided on an as-needed basis, tailored to your needs.  Please contact a member of our staff for more information.

Is one-on-one help available?
Yes!  Feel free to ask staff in the neighboring offices, MCP 309, 311, and 313, for help with any equipment and software issues that you encounter.  For more in-depth engineering and design assistance, please schedule an appointment with a member of the staff.

When is the lab open?
The lab is generally open from 7 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, excluding University holidays.

Is after-hours access available?
After-hours access is generally not available but may be granted by the EFI director under special circumstances.

Can I reserve use of a workstation or printer?
Yes!  Workstations and 3D printers may be reserved using the appointment calendars linked on the resources page.

Is there any cost for using the laboratory equipment?
There is no charge for using any of the laboratory equipment.

May I print my poster on the plotter?
Use of the plotter is restricted to printing of technical drawings and similar design documentation.  However, poster printing is available from our friends at Graphic Arts.