RS Components' DesignSpark web site has gained over 12,000 members six weeks after its launch.
Glenn Jarrett, Head of Electronics Marketing for RS Components said, “We are very pleased to see how quickly DesignSpark has become a favourite site for engineers. Our customers told us the value they place on free design tools and resources, and this has been demonstrated by the positive reaction to the features within DesignSpark.”
David Tarrant (left), Global Technical Community Manager for RS Components added, “We are seeing strong engagement from DesignSpark members on the site, using the resources, reviews and tools, and actively contributing. Our members are adding knowledge that other users now benefit from in creating their new designs.”
DesignSpark enables engineers are able to download free design tools such as DesignSpark PCB, a free schematic and pcb design tool, track the latest developments in embedded computing from ARM and Arduino, see project developments on the RS EDP, and review new development kits. The Spark Store also offers new design tools from a range of manufacturers and programming tools from across the web. Members have publicised useful links, training events and materials, using DesignSpark as the gateway to resources both within the site and in the wider electronics design community.
I couldn't speculate as to the current membership figures of Element14 but from the looks of the IPad offer they are running they aren't doing too badly... www.element-14.com/community/themes/pages/ipad/iPad_en.html
Posted by: DE | August 20, 2010 at 06:40 PM
Thanks for the post Centurion,
As I mentioned in my reply to IRS, I don't have the latest element14 membership numbers so can't comment.
Perhaps someone at Premier Farnell can update us to see if your celebration is premature!
Posted by: mick | August 20, 2010 at 04:41 PM
Hi Ian,
It looks like hbk somehow replied on the DesignSpark story and started the thread. I will consult admin to see if we can change this.
Yes element14 does have a year start on DesignSpark. I haven't seen the latest numbers for element14 so can't comment on membership. I would imagine the three new sites in Asia/pac will add a few!
Posted by: mick | August 20, 2010 at 04:36 PM
How are they behind, they've got more members within 6 weeks hahahaha????!!!!
Posted by: Centurion | August 20, 2010 at 02:20 PM
Lines crossed Mick?
What has Schweber/Arrow got to do with DesignSpark?
RS may think that they are off to a fast start but they're a year behind Premier-Farnell Element14!
Posted by: IRW | August 20, 2010 at 12:39 PM
Oh Dear! replying to my own posts!!
It does occur to me hbk, that Schweber Electronics was acquired by Arrow Electronics in 1991, and it could be that he was still in some capacity at Arrow when he was honoured by NEDA. I've asked NEDA to clarify.
Posted by: mick | August 20, 2010 at 12:00 PM
Absolutely right hbk. I took this straight from the NEDA press release and I should have known better. Seymour Schweber was indeed the founder and chairman of Schweber Electronics.
Interestingly it wasn't the first company he founded. In 1948 he co-founded Life Electronics Sales with Leon Machiz, who later became CEO of Avnet.
Posted by: mick | August 20, 2010 at 11:41 AM
Seymour Schweber was the founder and Executive Chairman of SCHWEBER ELECTRONICS!!!! NOT ARROW.
Posted by: hbk | August 19, 2010 at 05:36 PM