Frequently Asked Questions

Classes

Who can attend classes?
Anyone can attend classes! You dont have to be a member, just visit txrxlabs.org to see our listings and sign up.

What ages can attend classes?
Generally we offer two types of classes, young maker classes for individuals under 18 and adult classes for those over 18. If a class is listed under the young maker section it is for those <18, otherwise it is for those over 18. Occasionally exceptions are made please email classes@txrxlabs.org to request an exception.

What is the refund cancelation policy?
If you can't make a class please email us at info@txrxlabs.org to request a cancellation. Cancellations and rescheduling requests must be made at least one week prior to the class. Cancellations submitted less than one week before the class will only be refunded if we can fill your slot. Refunds are subject to a $10 administrative fee.

Can I transfer an enrollment to another person if I can’t make the class?
Yes, email classes@txrxlabs.org prior to the class and provide the person's name and contact info. All other refund and cancellation requirements will still apply to the transferee.

Do I have to attend a safety course before taking a class?
Class attendance does not require a separate safety class; safety is covered during the classes.

What are the prerequisites to taking a class?
Class prerequisites are listed with the class on the website. Please make sure you meet these prerequisites or your participation in the class may be limited.

Where are class dates and times listed?
On our website txrxlabs.org under the classes section.

How do I sign up for a class?
Please use the classes section of our website to sign up. For individuals who cannot use the website please email classes@txrxlabs.org to arrange an alternative means of signup.

How can I pay for classes?
We prefer signups through paypal on our website but cash and check are possible options if you contact the administrator through the classes@txrxlabs.org email address.

There are multiple days listed for a class can I pick one or do I have to come to all of them?
Classes with multiple days listed require attendance on all days.

Are there group discounts for classes?
Yes. Please contact classes@txrxlabs.org to discuss possible discounts.

Can I get a private class for myself or my group?
Yes, contact us through the classes@txrxlabs.org email address for private classes.

I have taken another similar class somewhere else can it serve as a prerequisite?
Possibly, you must get the permission of the instructor to attend. Please email classes@txrxlabs.org and request to be put in touch with the instructor so they can provide a prerequisite waiver.

I would like to teach a class how do I go about setting this up?
We love teachers, just email classes@txrxlabs.org to begin a discussion about getting you involved.

A class is full is there a wait list?
Yes, please click the “Email me the next time this class is scheduled” button on the bottom of the class page to get email updates for when the next session is listed.

I see a class listing but there are no dates scheduled when will the next one be scheduled?
We try to offer classes as often as possible. Classes are scheduled continuously throughout the year. The best option is to use the “Email me the next time this class is scheduled” button on the bottom of the class page to get email updates for when the next session is listed.

Would you please offer _____ class?
We would love your input, please email us your suggestion to classes@txrxlabs.org and we will look into offering that class.

Membership

What tools and spaces do members have access to?
Please view our tools section of the website to get an up to date listing.

What are the different levels of membership for?
What is the difference between for profit and non profit memberships? For profit memberships are for individuals who will make use of the labs tools, space, and consumables for purposes that yield some monetary value. Non-profit memberships are for individuals who will use the lab for personal growth, learning, individual projects, non-profit, or community based projects.

If you are unsure which category your usage would fall into please email membership@txrxlabs.org to find out.

Can I get a discount on membership for teaching classes or volunteering?
Please contact us at classes@txrxlabs.org to discuss.

Does it cost extra to use machines at the lab?
No, the membership fee is inclusive of any equipment usage.

What do I need to do to use equipment at the lab?
You must be a member, have attended the new member orientation, and have completed the checkout or class for that piece of equipment.

How long is a membership commitment?
Memberships are month to month. You can cancel or change your membership at any time.

How do I cancel my membership?
You can cancel your membership subscription by going to your settings page and clicking the red cancel button under your membership. This will cancel the automatic payments from PayPal, but you are still a member for the time you have already paid for. For example, if your membership renewed on the first of the month and you cancel your membership you can use the lab until the first of the next month. Be sure to remove any belongings you have at the lab before your membership ends.

How do I change my membership?
Follow the instructions in the previous section to cancel your membership. You will be redirected to the join us page where you can sign up for a different membership level.

Where do I store my projects?
We have projects storage areas for temporary project storage by members (1-2days) and private rental areas for longer storage options.

Does the lab provide raw materials?
No, raw materials are the member's responsibility. We do sell some common items on our webstore as a convenience.

Are visitors allowed?
Yes, however they are the responsibility of their sponsor member and must sign a liability waiver and get a visitor badge.

Are kids allowed at Open House?
Children are allowed at open house as long as they are accompanied by an adult at all times.

What if I need help with equipment or a project?
Lab staff can provide help if scheduled. Please email membership@txrxlabs.org to set up a time to get assistance.

Do you offer fabrication services?
Yes, send an email to work@txrxlabs.org to inquire.

What is expected of me in terms of cleanliness?
It is your responsibility to clean up the tools and areas you work in of any debris and also return tools to their appropriate locations.

Do you offer family or group discounts?
Yes, email membership@txrxlabs.org to discuss.

Are private work/storage spaces available?
Yes we offer tables, ½ bays, Full bays, and private studios. Please email membership@txrxlabs.org to get more information and check pricing and availability.

What are your hours?
Mon-Fri 10am-10pm
Sat 9am-8pm
Sun 10am-7pm

Members who rent private studios have access to their personal spaces 24/7

Do you offer shorter memberships than a month? A week? A day?
No we do not offer Weekly or Daily rates.

Do you provide safety equipment?
Yes we provide shared safety equipment for most common operations, please email safety@txrxlabs.org to inquire about specific items.

I cannot afford a membership what alternatives are there?
As a 501(c)3 non profit we offer discounted and free memberships on a case by case basis. Please email membership@txrxlabs.org to inquire.

I am already an expert at _____ do I still have to take a class?
No, if you pass our written and practical test you may get certified without taking a class.

Volunteering

Can I volunteer?
Yes, we can always use more volunteer help. Please email volunteer@txrxlabs.org to start helping. What type of volunteer opportunities do you have? Everything! From office help, PR, special projects, to technical work. We have an opportunity for everyone who would like to participate in our community.

Organizational

My organization would like to partner with TXRX Labs would this be possible?
Yes, TXRX would be excited to find ways our organization could partner to further help the community.

My organization would like a tour of TXRX labs how would we arrange this?
Email info@txrxlabs.org to schedule a tour.

Do you offer organizational memberships?
Yes we offer these on a case by case basis please email membership@txrxlabs.org to inquire.

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About TXRX Labs

Established in 2008, TXRX Labs is a non-profit hackerspace for the greater Houston area. Housed in the East End District, we offer courses in and access to our rapid prototyping lab, woodshop, machineshop, electronics lab, and a wide variety of other tools. Our goal is to educate the public about technology and show how seemingly complex techniques can be used by anyone. If you like what we do, please donate.

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