HPCC 25th Anniversary Conference, Imperial College, London
13th and 14th October 2007

0. This is edition 1 of the conference FAQ, last updated 2nd July 2007

0.1 This FAQ is maintained by the HPCC secretary, suggestions for improvements, are welcome, see section 8.

1. What is the HPCC?

HPCC Stands for the "Handheld and Portable Computer Club"

HPCC is a voluntary, independent body run by and for users of handheld and portable computers and calculators. The club has been helping members for 25 years to get the most from their equipment and to further the exchange of information and ideas.

Our first meeting was held in May 1982.

1.1 You have HP in the club name does that mean you just deal with HP equipment?

Most members' main interest is in the HP range of models, the club is happy to discuss other models too. Particularly if they perform interesting calculations or have interesting hardware or preferably both!

1.2 Can I join HPCC?

We always welcome new members, the membership form is here.

Please do not try to join at the conference, the treasurer would like to enjoy the conference as much as you.

2. What is the conference about?

Every 5 years HPCC sponsors a meeting at which the worlds hand held and portable enthusiasts can meet, exchange thoughts and information and listen to some interesting talks.

2.1 When is the conference?

Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th October 2007. The exact starting time has yet to be decided.

2.2 Can anyone come along, do I need to be a member?

Yes, subject to pre registration. You do not need to be a member to attend to the conference. Minors need to be accompanied by an adult.

Please click here for registration.

2.3 Why must I register?

We are guests of Imperial College, understandably they like to know who's in their building. The organisers of the conference also need to size the facilities according to the number of attendees.

2.4 How much does it cost to register?

NOTHING! Were trying to keep administrivia to a minimum.

2.5 How will I know who's who?

We will be issuing sticky labels you can write your name on should you so wish.

2.6 Can I give a presentation?

Yes! Subject to the Organisers' approval. Please specify the subject and length of your presentation on the registration form. A laptop, projector and OHP are available.

2.7 How should I dress?

This is an informal event; whatever you're comfortable in.

2.8 What will the weather be like?

British weather is predictable for its unpredictability. Be prepared for rain and hot sun as both are equally likely. It will be fairly mild though - no colder than 14C - so no need to worry about wrapping up. Short term weather forecasts are available here.

2.9 Is London safe?

London is safe and you should have a pleasant and trouble-free stay. If you are worried then the Metropolitan Police have the following advice for tourists here.

2.10 What should I bring to the conference?

Yourself :), suggested additions would be: loose change, pen, notepad, umbrella, camera, a map of the local area, this FAQ

2.11 Can I take pictures?

Your welcome to take pictures of any equipment and presentations. Please do not use a flash during the presentations themselves.

3. Where is the conference being held?

The exact room within the Imperial College complex is yet to be confirmed, please check back here frequently. The entrance you use will depend upon which room we book.

We are confident that the conference will take place in either Blackett or Huxley building marked 7 and 15 on this map.

3.1 Where is Imperial College?

Imperial College is in the West Central part of London. This street map indicates the location with an arrow. This map gives South Kensington relative to the surrounding area.

3.2 How do I get to Imperial College?

London has an extensive underground railway (AKA Underground, tube) and bus service; it also has a most excellent journey planning website to help you navigate. (You should enter your destination as SW7 2BA and tick the postcode box)

Imperial College is about 0.25 of a mile (0.33 Kilometer) from the South Kensington and Gloucester Road Underground stations.

Should you feel particularly well heeled you can use a Black Cab.

You could potentially drive around London, street parking is available nearby, and campus parking may be possible at a fairly high rate.

4. Where can I stay in London?

London has a variety of places to stay from relatively cheap to very expensive. HPCC do not endorse any of the following links

• Boka Hotel. BOKA Hotel. Affordable hotel in Earl's Court, 20 minutes walk from Physics, or 10 minutes by car. For two people sharing a room with a bathroom in the corridor, it is 40 pounds for the two, or just 20 pounds a night - cheap by local standards! Other prices - single, treble, or rooms with a bathroom en suite, are equally reasonably priced.
• Travelodge
• InterContinental Hotels (If you search by address use : Country: United Kingdom, City/Town: London, Address: Prince Consort Road)
• Google Search

5. Where can I eat?

The area towards Gloucester Road underground station hosts a variety of restaurants for all pockets from McDonalds upwards. On Conference lunchtimes we intend to have a walking bus to the local supermarket for sandwiches and drinks.

Imperial College has a number of snack and drink vending machines. Please come armed with plenty of loose change.

5.1 Will there be a Conference Dinner on Saturday night?

As we are keeping this informal, there is no official Conference Dinner. However, Wlodek would be happy to organise a group meal in a local restaurant for anyone who is interested, possibly in the Polish Hearth Club as at previous conferences. You can contact Wlodek or arrange a meal with a group of friends yourself.

6. What else is there to do around London?

Locally there are many attractions, including: the Science Museum (free), Natural History Museum (free), Victoria and Albert Museum (free).

For a full list of everything on in London see Visit London.

Of particular interest is the Bletchley Park National Codes Centre, which includes the Computer museum. Bletchley park is an hour away from London by train

7. Other useful links:

Transport for London

8. I have another question not covered above?

You can mail secretary@hpcc.org who will attempt to answer your question or pass it on to someone who has the answer.