Alt-BEAM Archive
Message #03605
To: sbolt@xs4all.nl
From: JVernonM@aol.com
Date: Mon, 24 May 1999 03:48:26 EDT
Subject: [alt-beam] Re: Hobby dying WAS lay off Solarbotics
In a message dated 5/23/99 7:40:36 AM Eastern Daylight Time, sbolt@xs4all.nl
writes:
> Bad news: Electronics as a hobby is dying, at least here in The
> Netherlands. In the past few years, the drop has been so steep that
> obtaining even fairly ordinary parts is becoming a problem.
>
Interesting point. I've been thinking about this as I worked today. I have to
agree. Video games and computers have filled a huge hole in the time of the
age group that would have been attracted to electronic hobbies. You could
dismiss it as a bad omen or embrace it as an opportunity. I have also noticed
an explosion of conventional robotics hobby sites over the last 5-10 years.
That form of hobby robotics and electronics has shown growth. I can name 5 or
6 suppliers and kit makers off the top of my head. I have also noticed many
more personal sites with tutorials and tips. The basic stamp is available at
Rat Shack of all places. I think it relates somewhat to the closed market
comments I mentioned earlier. But, no matter what you think about it, the
conventional hobby robotics market seems to be growing as other electronics
hobbies dry up. Where does BEAM want to go? Something to think about.
Jim
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