Large-scale technical competitions are held in KFEN — the Faculty of Natural Sciences Building of NEFU. Yesterday the competition in 3D-modeling has ended, today the IT-Hackaton has started. The training ground transformed overnight. Now we will tell you about it, what was here before and what is here now.
Part 1: 3D competition
The training ground for 3D-modeling was prepared in one day. Basketball backboards and ventilation stacks were covered with banners to make it comfortable. The organizers applied to the Ministry and received 30 printers and 30 computers. Blender, 3DS Max, SketchUp, ZBrush these are the programs necessary for work, they were installed with a free trial period.
All printers are new, it needs calibration and sometimes junks. The day before the competition, the organizers tested all equipment, and the participants confirmed: it works. If there were problems, they were eliminated immediately. Computers for all participants were the same, but there are rumors that someone has a faster device.
The organizers of 3D and IT competitions made a scheme — a convenient location of objects for all competitions that will be held in order. A fan zone with game consoles is also a general idea, because programming and modeling are mental work, it can’t hurt to participants.
Vladislav Borisov, 14 years old participant: «There is enough space on the desks for two people, a computer and a printer. Most important thing — it is cool here, and the chairs are leather, comfortable. The inconvenience is the constant squeak from the printers – it is hard to concentrate, and it is easy to spy on someone’s idea, although it is not allowed.»
Part 2: IT competition
Hackaton is a team work of a designer, programmer and manager, so it was necessary to create a creative atmosphere.
The organizers provided everyone with good internet which is the main weapon for IT people, as well as with LAN cables. It is nice there are no piles of wires on the floor that you can stumble on. Each table has individual sockets, keeping in mind the kilowatts used, so there will be no interruptions. All organizers have radio sets to quickly solve problems in a large hall. In addition to the working space, there is a resting area, a zone for performances, and a staff zone for the experts.
Participants have the opportunity to bring their equipment with their programs. The organizers understand the role of their own working tools that were tested in battle. Children who did not take their equipment along, got the laptops in advance, so that they customized them for themselves. In case of unforeseen situations, additional equipment is ready. Organizers did not limit participants in the choice of programs, children chose convenient software.
A lot of effort was given to ensure that the hall was always cool, as this summer turned out to be hot. In addition to spectators, there are about 100 staff people in the hall and 60 participants. Add to this the equipment that heats up. So Hackaton will be held with open windows and continuously working electric fans and conditioners.
Milena Afanasyeva and Danil Parnikov
Translation: Konstantin Popov