11th San Jose Hardware Meetup @ Acorn PD | The Evolution of Personal Computing
We're back for another San Jose Hardware Meetup, this time at Acorn Product Development's new office in Milpitas! Our theme for this evening is Personal Computing, particularly how it has evolved and what's next. Acorn knows a thing or two about this topic! We'll hear all about that during tonight's meetup.
Our guest speakers
Before founding Acorn Product Development, Ken Haven worked alongside Steve Jobs at NeXT Computer, helping push the boundaries of personal computing. At this month's hardware meetup, Ken will share invaluable lessons he learned from his time with one of tech's most visionary leaders — and how that experience at NeXT Computer shaped his approach to product development and the future of computing.
Akshaykumar Mehta, co-founder of OTAinfo will talk about the next frontier of personal computing: ubiquitous connected devices and the technology that enables them. OTAinfo is an ultra-lightweight, on-device AI software that helps IoT devices predict and prevent failures—such as memory leaks or update crashes—without relying on cloud connectivity. OTAinfo’s 32KB library enables real-time self-monitoring and predictive insights, improving reliability and reducing support costs for manufacturers in consumer electronics, industrial IoT, and smart agriculture.
As robotics and connected hardware grow more complex, the systems we build are outpacing the traditional ways we certify them. Robert Wendt, founding engineer at Saphira AI, will explore how AI is beginning to support the safety certification process—helping teams make sense of ambiguous standards, map requirements to real-world hardware, and collaborate with test labs and regulators. Drawing on examples from robotics and autonomous systems, Robert will share what it takes to build certifiable hardware from day one—and how AI tools can support, rather than replace, engineering judgment in that journey. Robert will be talking to us about: “Teaching Machines to Understand Safety: AI’s Role in UL, CE, and ISO Certification”.
We're looking for one more presenter who's pushing the boundaries of personal computing forward. From devices that extend our capabilities with AI to personal robotics at home, the next frontier of personal computing will happen beyond the screen. We'd love to hear how you and your team are helping shape that future. Email sj@hardwaremeetup.com if interested!
Agenda
6:30-7:00p - Arrival, mingle, grab refreshments
7:00-7:05p - Welcome and introduction
7:05-8:00p - Guest talks and audience Q+A
8:00-8:30p - Community open mic
Anyone will have the chance for a 2min pitch to demo a prototype or talk about what they are working on.
8:30-9:30p - Mix + mingle
Thank you to our host
Established in 1993, Acorn Product Development is a leading provider of product development consulting, offering comprehensive engineering and design services. With our specialized expertise, we bring innovative product ideas to life. From initial concept to final implementation, our team of professionals lead you through every step of the product development process. We provide the strategic and technical insights needed to drive the success of your product initiatives across multiple industries.
Thank you to our partner
informal is a freelance collective for the most talented independent professionals in hardware. Whether you're looking for a single contractor, a full-time employee, or an entire team of professionals to work on everything from product development to go-to-market strategy, the informal collective has the perfect collection of people for the job. Learn more.
If you want to help support the next meetup, please reach out to nate@informal.cc for sponsorship inquiries.
See you soon!