Frequently asked questions
What the Maker Lab is, how access works and what you need before your first visit — answered clearly and concisely.
Who is the Maker Lab for?
The Maker Lab is the prototyping workshop of Startup Incubator Berlin. The Maker Lab is open to participants in the SIB programmes and to HWR members interested in founding. CIC members use it under the framework agreement. External users case by case: write to us and we will sort out the arrangement. It is not an open public FabLab. You need an active Maker account, the signed usage agreement and the relevant equipment induction. More on the Workshop page.
What can I build here?
Five areas, three of them usable today: 3D printing, laser (supervised) and electronics. Wood and metal as well as textile and finish are being set up. From CAD model to printed part, from breadboard to populated PCB, from vector file to a laser-cut front panel. The equipment catalogue shows the confirmed inventory and the booking route for each machine.
What does using the lab cost?
The lab supplies the material; nothing is billed for now. We keep track of consumption; if you need larger quantities, talk to us first.
How do I get in?
In five steps: 1. account, 2. usage rules, 3. induction, 4. book, 5. build and document. Your personal area shows which step is still missing. It starts on the registration page; the details are under Induction.
Do I need prior experience?
No. You don't have to be a pro at the machines — that's exactly what the instruction session is for. We work by the principle of "learn by doing": you build yourself, we instruct, supervise and are there when you need us. What you need to handle on each device, we show you at the instruction session.
What do I need to bring?
Above all your project and, where possible, your files or material. What exactly you need for a given device — from file formats to the right protective gear — is specified in the equipment sheet and during induction. Details are available on the Induction page.
Can I take part without SIB or CIC membership?
The lab is not an open public FabLab, and there is no general public workshop access at the moment. External users case by case: write to us and we will sort out the arrangement. The shortest route is the registration page.
When is the lab open?
Every week there is one supervised and one open workshop window; the published dates under Announcements are binding. Location and contact details are on Hours & Contact.
Ask us what you want to build.
Your question isn't here? Write to us via Hours & Contact, or start right away with your registration.
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