Getting Started for Makerspace Users

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This guide will walk you through using Pinpoint to access makerspace equipment. You'll learn how to sign in, select machines, and properly sign out when you're done.

Before You Begin

Make sure you have:

• Your UMD ID card
• A Pinpoint account (you'll create one on your first visit)
• Required training for any equipment you plan to use

Visit your makerspace

1. Choose a makerspace from our participating locations
2. Visit during their regular operating hours
3. Look for the Pinpoint kiosk near the entrance

Locate the Pinpoint device

Each makerspace has a Pinpoint kiosk that may be:

• A touchscreen display
• A standard monitor with keyboard and mouse
• Located near the entrance or front desk

You'll see the welcome page for that lab on the screen:

First time swiping into Pinpoint/account creation

First-Time Users

1. Swipe your UMD ID at the kiosk
2. You'll see the account creation page with your information pre-filled
3. Click Create Account to continue
4. You'll be taken to the machine selection page

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Returning users will skip the account creation step and go directly to machine selection. If this is your first time utilizing Pinpoint, you will need to create a Pinpoint account. To do this, swipe your UID. This will lead you to the account creation page. Here, all of your basic information (name, email, UID, etc.) will be autofilled. Click on the Create Account button to complete your account creation. You will then be redirected to the custom reasons page.

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If you've already made an account, you will be sent directly to the custom reasons page.

Choosing a Reason

This is where you can select a reason for signing into Pinpoint and submit. You will then be redirected to the machine selection page.

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If you are an admin, an admin button will be available on the page to direct you to the admin page.

Selecting machines

Finding Equipment

• Use the search bar to find specific machines
• Browse categories to explore available equipment
• Select all the machines you plan to use
• Machines are organized by type and category

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Some equipment requires training certification through Parchment Digital Badges. If you see a "Parchment Digital Badges Required" warning, follow our Parchment Digital Badges setup guide. If you are at the kiosk, a QR code will be displayed that you can use on your phone to link your Pinpoint account to Parchment Digital Badges.

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Equipment you haven't been certified to use will appear grayed out. Complete the required training in Canvas to gain access.

Selecting a reason and submitting your request

Completing Your Reservation

1. Choose a reason for using the equipment from the dropdown menu
2. Click Reserve Tool(s) to confirm your selection
3. Or click Proceed Without Selecting Tool(s) if you don't need any equipment
4. You'll see a confirmation message when done

Swiping out/reserving more machines

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Remember to sign out when you leave! This is important for:

• Safety and security
• Equipment availability
• Usage tracking

If you forget to sign out, you'll receive:

• A reminder email
• A warning on your next visit

During Your Visit

If you need to use additional equipment while you're here:

1. Swipe your ID again at the kiosk
2. Choose between:
   • Sign Out: End your session
   • Reserve New Tool(s): Select more equipment

Signing Out

1. Swipe your ID at the kiosk
2. Click Sign Out
3. Wait for the confirmation screen

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Need help? Ask a staff member or email eds@umd.edu.