Is a link to another web site, whether it be blog, forum, manufacturer, etc., a Project?
A Project is defined in the sticky to include:
Today, there is a Project for controlling a microstepper. It consists basically of a link to another site, which appears to be some sort of blog. That site includes a zip file that unzips to three additional files. One of the unzipped filed is the hex code. Another of the unzipped files includes a circuit and discussion of the code, but not a complete source code listing. There is a .exe file included that I did not have the guts to run.
That project appears well done and is probably of interest to a large number of forum members. The absence of a source code file might limit its usefulness. Most important, our moderators have no control over the content of the blog on which the Project is posted.
What if a similar approach were used by someone with less honorable intents than Alberto? Today, it might be a project; tomorrow it might be porno or a racist rant.
Thus, I believe the rules for posting Projects should be modified to include the following:
6) Links may be used to provide backup information, but not for the substance of the Project.
John
A Project is defined in the sticky to include:
The need for some leeway is obvious. But, in the past we have seen a Project that was basically a direct copy of a circuit from a datasheet. There was no parts list, component values, or any indication it actually had been built or worked.1) A clear title that describes the project appended by the word 'Project:', for example "Project: 555 Audio Oscillator".
2) A list of parts, equipment, software used.
3) Details of any theory, references or information that may be applicable.
4) Any schematics, source code, etc.
5) A short description of what to do.
Today, there is a Project for controlling a microstepper. It consists basically of a link to another site, which appears to be some sort of blog. That site includes a zip file that unzips to three additional files. One of the unzipped filed is the hex code. Another of the unzipped files includes a circuit and discussion of the code, but not a complete source code listing. There is a .exe file included that I did not have the guts to run.
That project appears well done and is probably of interest to a large number of forum members. The absence of a source code file might limit its usefulness. Most important, our moderators have no control over the content of the blog on which the Project is posted.
What if a similar approach were used by someone with less honorable intents than Alberto? Today, it might be a project; tomorrow it might be porno or a racist rant.
Thus, I believe the rules for posting Projects should be modified to include the following:
6) Links may be used to provide backup information, but not for the substance of the Project.
John