Skills you will need

• First of all, you should understand that this hobby is not plug-n-play. Almost nothing about it is plug-n-play. Don't even expect that the first time you plug in your lights, they will turn on. There is no manual for this hobby although there is plenty of written documentation and helpful hints and tips. It will be up to you to find them. On your own.

• Next, understand that while other DIYers are always glad to help you acquire these basic skills, don't expect them to do it for you and teach you every little thing. Remember, this hobby is a "DO IT YOURSELF" experience where you take ownership of every facet of it, including the study and learning of tasks that may be completely new to you. So you should expect to spend time researching, reading, and looking for information. On your own.

• You'll need to know your way around your computer, how to install software on it, how to copy/delete files, how to use the Internet to download and install software, etc. The hobby relies heavily on the user's ability to operate his/her computer in a much more involved way than simply browsing the web or answering email. You will have to know how to configure communications ports, install drivers for external USB devices, and possibly more. Don't expect other DIYers to teach you how to use your own computer.

• You'll need to learn about electrical safety and basic homeowner wiring techniques. This hobby uses high-powered electricity and for your safety as well as the lives of others who live in your house or who visit your display, you'll need to follow local electrical guidelines. Pick up a basic wiring guide at your local hardware/home improvement center and study it thoroughly to learn how to be safe. Don't overlook this issue. It may save someone's life.

• You'll need to have some pretty solid diagnostic thinking ability because you'll be constructing your own customized electronic light display. There is no manual for it because every DIYer's situation is different. However, there is a logic to electricity and electronics works and it's up to you to learn it. On your own.

• If you plan to use Ethernet-based controllers (E1.31, primarily for smart pixels), you will need to know how to configure computer networking, IP addresses and use common network software tools such as ping and telnet as well as opening ports and configuring network routers. If you've never done animated lighting before and you plan to START with some of these jazzy, pixel-type displays, expect to have an extremely challenging DIY experience.

• You will need to learn how to solder electronic circuit boards. This isn't as daunting as you may assume and in fact, usually quickly becomes a favorite part of the hobby -- the building of electronic gizmos! It's an absolute hoot when you assemble one and fire it up for the first time and discover that it works, and the first time you do this, you'll understand the incredible allure this hobby has on participants and you'll really be hooked!

• If you intend to build display structures that people can enter or walk under, you'll need to build them structurally sound to prevent possible injury. Again, your hardware/home improvement center has plenty of books on construction techniques.