Lab Computers
The lab has five workstations. Lab members can log into Windows machines (on MESA) using their university credentials. To access the Unix machines in person or via VPN, contact the lab manager or director for login information.
- Two Windows machines equipped for VR,
- Two unix machines equipped for high-performance computing (one for GPU computing, and the other for high-RAM CPU computing),
- One machine for presentations and 3D printing.
ARGO Cluster
The Argo Cluster is a High Performance compute cluster operated by the Office of Research Computing. MEGL is a contributor to the ARGO Cluster at Mason. MEGLers are encouraged to utilize this resource.
- Request an account by completing this form.
- ORC will reach out to conduct a training. Once you complete the training, you will have access to ARGO. This training will include important information on how to submit jobs and all that you need to know to use the ARGO cluster.
- You can learn how to login here.
- General ARGO information can be found here.
3D Printing in the Lab
The lab has two MakerBot 3D printers: the Method and the Z18. MEGLers are encouraged to design and print models related to their research and mathematical interests. We ask that if you print one for yourself, also print one for the lab so that we can showcase your work. Check out our Visualizations page for some examples of past MEGLer work.
- Before you can print, you need an .stl file or other MakerBot compatible file. You can design an STL for printing using a wide range of software. You can learn about this process on the web or in the GMU Math synthesis course, MATH 401: Math through 3D Printing. You can also find an STL for free on Thingiverse.
- Once you have a file for printing, you will need a MakerBot account to use our printers. You can create an account here.
- Armed with your MakerBot account and STL, log in to one of the windows machines in the lab. Open “MakerBot Print.” Log into your account.
- Select your printer: MEGL Z18 or MEGL Method. We recommend the Z18 for larger prints, high volume of prints, or if you’re new to 3D printing. The Z18 is much faster and still has great detail. The Method is great for small prints, delicate prints, and prints with many holes. The Method utilizes dissolvable filament so the clean up is easier, but it takes more time.
- Save your model as one of the supported file types. Click on the Folder symbol in the top left corner and then click Add Models in MakerBot Print and navigate to where the file is saved on your computer. It will then appear on the virtual build plate.
- Once you have your model open in the virtual build plate you can change its orientation, scale it up or down, or even add another model to the virtual plate. See the section on Using MakerBot Print for more information.
- You may also want to change some settings before printing. Click Print Settings and choose if you want to print with supports. You can also choose your print mode. See the section on advanced print settings for more information and other options.
- When your model is set up the way you like it, click the Print button. MakerBot Print will slice your file and send it to your MakerBot Replicator. When prompted, press the control panel dial or select Start Print in MakerBot Print to confirm and start the print. Make sure the build plate is clear.
- When your print finishes, wait for the Smart Extruder+/Smart Extruder to cool, then remove the build plate from the MakerBot Replicator. Remove the print from the build plate. If you printed your model with a raft, peel the raft off of the bottom of the print.
VR in the Lab
The lab has two VR head sets and the necessary software to run them.
- Before starting, make sure that the chargers and HTC Power Bank are charged. Also, be sure to have a Steam Account.
- On the far left computer, next to the bookcase, open SteamVR. Then, turn the headset, after plugging in the USB cable from it into the HTC Power Bank.
- In Windows, open the Vive Wireless application. After that, press the triangle button on the headset. This should have connected the SteamVR and the Vive headset.
- To pair the controllers, hit two small circular buttons on the front. At this point, everything should be set!
- The sensors are above the bookcase and on the wall opposite it. If something is not working, please check that the sensors are plugged in first.
- Tip: When using VR, make sure to be in a Hausdorff space. This means that there should be enough open space around you to not hurt anyone, including yourself.
Some programs that work are …
- Nanome (Mathematical Biology)
- Prisms XR (Good for shapes and math topics in general)
- Calcflow (Free on Steam) (Calculus Topics)
- Shapes XR (Specifically Shapes) (Good for Topology)
- Gravity Sketch
This website
This website can be used to host project materials and apps developed by MEGL members. Contact the lab director if your team would like to upload something during the semester.