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PAX South 2015 BYOC Information Thread
[H]olyGeekboy![[H]olyGeekboy](https://us.v-cdn.net/5018289/uploads/userpics/946/nEX0FU091SF2E.jpg)
PAX dad and PC builderClevelandRegistered User, ClubPA regular
PAX dad and PC builderClevelandRegistered User, ClubPA regular
PAX South 2015 BYOC Information - @BYOC_South
Registration Status: CLOSED
Convention center Load-In Maps and Information
BYOC Information Mailer
includes errata
Group Seating Information
BYOC FAQ
Q: What does B.Y.O.C. stand for?
A: "Bring Your Own Computer" a dedicated, secure place within PAX that attendees who purchase the additional badge have the ability to bring their own computer into PAX and play with other PAX attendees! It's a gigantic LAN Party and a pretty awesome place to rest your feet when you get tired of walking around the convention!
Q: How do I purchase a BYOC Badge?
A: Badges are being sold separately from PAX South Registration. BYOC badges will be mailed to you ahead of PAX just like your Attendee Badges.
Q: How many BYOC Spots are available?
A: A total of 250 seats will be available at Pax South 2015.
Q: BYOC is sold out and I didn't get a pass! Are passes set aside for later purchase? What about cancellations?
A: We do not reserve any BYOC tickets for sale at a later date, so there are no additional tickets to be sold. If there are any cancellations, we may be able to, on an extremely limited basis, offer the cancelled tickets up for general purchase. Contact registration at paxsite dot com for specific inquiries.
Q: How much does BYOC cost?
A: $35 in addition to your regular 3-Day PAX pass (or Single Day Passes, should you decide to do that).
Q: What time do you recommend (or require) people show up for BYOC check-in?
A: Check in will start at 9:00 AM, 1 hour before PAX opening on Friday. Depending on this year's policy and layout, you may need to wait to get into the Expo Hall or return to the line after you set up your computer.
Q: What hours does the BYOC run each day?
A: Same hours as PAX, basically. The room will close down about an hour before the doors shut for PAX.
Q: Do I leave my stuff in the LAN the whole time?
A: Yes. The room is guarded all during PAX and locked up at night. We are the first ones in and the last ones out. If you must take your stuff up (like a laptop) you need to check it out at the security desk as you leave and check it back in when you return.
Q: What games are typically played?
A: Whatever is popular this year. TF2, LoL, COD4/5/6/7/etc, WoW, Starcraft 2, Portal 2, Monday Night Combat, L4D2, etc. If you want to play a game you can find others that are up for it as well.
Q: What if I want to play DOTA 2 this year? Are you guys going to have LoL?
A: Because we have a limited amount of bandwidth we are very careful to primarily include games that support local-only play. If a vendor chooses to sponsor bandwidth for their game we are able to include them on the image and plan for their allocation. Starting with PAX Prime 2013 we are now evaluating, on a case-by-case basis, exceptions to this rule.
Q: If I get a spot for the BYOC, I don't need to commit to being in there the whole time, right? Just when I feel like relaxing and playing some games with people?
A: Correct, you aren't chained to your spot in BYOC. The majority of BYOC attendees are just there in-between the PAX events that they want to go see.
Q: Can I bring my 30+ something inch monitor/TV?
A: No. The max monitor size is 27" due to power and space constraints.
Q: Can I bring my own chair?
A: NO! The convention center doesn't allow this. Please use the chairs provided.
Q: Can I bring a laptop with my desktop?
A: Yes, as long as you stay within your 30" of table space. Although remember you only get one network port and two power ports per seat and you can't use your own power strips
Q: Can I bring a switch or my own power strip to increase that?
A: NO! No outside networking devices are allowed. Any spotted will be removed.
A: Daisy chaining power strips is a HUGE NO as well. Fire Marshall hates that so we need to enforce this pretty seriously. Sorry.
Q: Can I charge my iPhone, Android, iPad or other gadgets using power provided to my BYOC Seat?
A: No, you are only given two power outlets for all of your stuff. If you need to charge your phone or other device, bring a USB cable.
Q: Do I need to bring a network cable?
A: Yes. You will need a network cable to hook your computer up to the network switch at your table. Bring around a 25ft cable otherwise, depending where you are sitting, the switch may be out of your cables reach.
Q: Can I bring *insert friend/Girlfriend/spouse/random person here* in BYOC with me?
A: No, Sorry. To ensure the security of everyone's personal equipment in a busy area such as PAX, only BYOC attendees are allowed into the BYOC room.
Q: Is there Internet in BYOC?
A: Yes there will be, although it will be locked down to prevent things like torrenting and throttled so not one person can use up all the bandwidth.
Q: But... how am I supposed to get my computer there?
A: Drive it! An alternate option which I have used to attend LANs that are far away, is to ship yourself your computer/monitor to your hotel you are staying at. If you call them and say you have a package coming they will hold it for you until you check-in. Just ship it back to yourself when PAX is over. There is a FedEx Office in the BCEC!
Q: Can I bring my xbox/playstation/nintendo console?
A: Sorry, no consoles allowed in here. This is a PC LAN. You can't being a console in addition either, those things use up a lot of power. Remember: You only get two power outlets.
Q: Can I Bring a cooler in for drinks/snacks?
A: Yes but only small personal coolers /w no ice (use the frozen gelpacks). If it has more than one handle and/or wheels then it won't be allowed in (think lunch sized cooler).
Q: Can I email you my question?
A: Yes! Feel free to email PC Questions to pax_pc at penny-arcade dot com
Q: WHERE is BYOC this year?
A: As this is the first PAX South, layout is still being determined. A map will be provided as soon as available.
This FAQ subject to change
Case Mod Showcase Information
Want to show off your awesome case mod near the entrance to BYOC? Want to sit in proximity to other case modders? We've carved out an area just for you! Register to sit in our Case Mod Showcase area of the BYOC!
As a note, this is optional and not required if you're bringing in a case mod.
Registration Status: CLOSED
Convention center Load-In Maps and Information
--- Getting There ---
If you're driving to PAX South with your computer in tow, we have temporary load and unload parking available via the Alamo Street Loading Docks. It's right off Alamo street just barely North of Villita Street, and it's only accessible via the northbound lanes.
Here's an ultra zoomed in map: http://bit.ly/1x6gByW.
Here is what the entrance looks like: https://goo.gl/maps/wEwHt
Isn't technology great?
Once parked, you'll bring your gear into the Queue Room to the right side. About half way down the Queue Room will be the BYOC Registration Entrance, and we'll be able to get you covered there. Be warned, the parking in the loading dock is for load in and load out only...you have about 5-10 minutes. Sorry, but we have to be super duper strict on this!
If you aren't driving, just haul your gear straight to the PC Room via the Queue Room. You can hopefully get a feel for how to get there once in the building via this map (https://guidebook.com/guide/27558/map/35222/), and when in doubt, just ask any of our Enforcers.
The PC Room has early entry on Friday (and only Friday) to find a seat and set up your gear. Saturday and Sunday opening will be 10:00am.
If you're driving to PAX South with your computer in tow, we have temporary load and unload parking available via the Alamo Street Loading Docks. It's right off Alamo street just barely North of Villita Street, and it's only accessible via the northbound lanes.
Here's an ultra zoomed in map: http://bit.ly/1x6gByW.
Here is what the entrance looks like: https://goo.gl/maps/wEwHt
Isn't technology great?
Once parked, you'll bring your gear into the Queue Room to the right side. About half way down the Queue Room will be the BYOC Registration Entrance, and we'll be able to get you covered there. Be warned, the parking in the loading dock is for load in and load out only...you have about 5-10 minutes. Sorry, but we have to be super duper strict on this!
If you aren't driving, just haul your gear straight to the PC Room via the Queue Room. You can hopefully get a feel for how to get there once in the building via this map (https://guidebook.com/guide/27558/map/35222/), and when in doubt, just ask any of our Enforcers.
The PC Room has early entry on Friday (and only Friday) to find a seat and set up your gear. Saturday and Sunday opening will be 10:00am.
BYOC Information Mailer
includes errata
--- PAX South Badge Registration ---
Your PAX South BYOC badges should be mailed to you shortly if you haven't received them already. Should you have questions or issues with this, please contact registration@paxsite.com.
--- Basic LAN Party Information ---
If you've never been to a LAN party, be sure to bring the following equipment:
- BYOC Pass
- Computer
- Monitor (Please no bigger than 27" LCD) and connecting cable
- Keyboard
- Mouse (we recommend wired, just to avoid any potential interference)
- Mouse pad
- Ethernet cable (25 feet should be sufficient, but longer is always better)
- Power cables (but no extension cords or power strips. Maximum of two power connected devices)
- Headphones
- Games CDs/DVDs, Windows CD, and backups for other programs you may need to install/reinstall.
We suggest printing off this list checking each item as you pack it. If you end up forgetting something, talk to an Enforcer and we might be able to help out.
Please update/patch your games before coming to PAX. This includes updating Steam, Impulse, Origin, and such. You will have access to the Internet, but bandwidth is limited!
Please be sure to enable virus protection on your computer before connecting it to our network. Any computers that are found with a virus will be immediately disconnected from the network until the matter is resolved.
***AGAIN, PATCH YOUR PC BEFORE YOU ARRIVE***
The PAX South BYOC schedule is as follows:
Friday: 9:00am - 12:00am
Saturday: 10:00am - 12:00am
Sunday: 10:00am - 6:00pm
--- Tournament Schedule ---
The PC Tournament Schedule can be found on our forums. Note this does not account for the various BYOC contests we'll be peer pressuring you into.
--- BYOC Contests ---
The BYOC staff will be running organized games throughout each day in the games on the list. Some of the activities will have signups ahead of time while others you can just jump in game and join us. Extended descriptions for each of the organized events will be posted on the PAX Forums. Scheduled times will be available on site starting at check-in. The PAX South BYOC twitter account is @BYOC_South, and can be followed for updates leading up to and during the show.
--- Security Information ---
There's a lot more to do at PAX than just play PC games, and we want you to be able to go do all of these things secure in the knowledge that your computer and peripherals are safe and sound. To that end, we probably put a much higher emphasis on security than most other LAN parties. Before you enter the PAX BYOC area, you will have to quickly register your computer and any monitor you're bringing into the computer area. We've gone to great lengths to keep the security processes in check, and as such, please keep your BYOC badge as visible as possible when entering the room.
While we will make every attempt to keep all equipment in the room safe, be aware that there is little we can do to prevent iPods, tablets, portable game consoles, CD's, big wads of cash, and other small items from walking off. We strongly suggest you keep such items out of plain view and use some common sense when it comes to your own security. If you're coming with a laptop, we also STRONGLY recommend you invest in a laptop lock. Seriously.
--- Voice Chat Information ---
We will have Ventrilo servers available for tournaments and public gaming. While we will have the client available on our file server, it is recommended that you download and install Ventrilo before you come to the event. You can download the client at http://www.ventrilo.com.
If you have any PC related questions at all during PAX, please see the BYOC Help Desk (near the entrance of BYOC). If they're not able to provide a solution, they'll be able to direct you to the right people to get your problem solved.
That's all we've got! Thanks for reading all this, and see you all at PAX!
Your PAX South BYOC badges should be mailed to you shortly if you haven't received them already. Should you have questions or issues with this, please contact registration@paxsite.com.
--- Basic LAN Party Information ---
If you've never been to a LAN party, be sure to bring the following equipment:
- BYOC Pass
- Computer
- Monitor (Please no bigger than 27" LCD) and connecting cable
- Keyboard
- Mouse (we recommend wired, just to avoid any potential interference)
- Mouse pad
- Ethernet cable (25 feet should be sufficient, but longer is always better)
- Power cables (but no extension cords or power strips. Maximum of two power connected devices)
- Headphones
- Games CDs/DVDs, Windows CD, and backups for other programs you may need to install/reinstall.
We suggest printing off this list checking each item as you pack it. If you end up forgetting something, talk to an Enforcer and we might be able to help out.
Please update/patch your games before coming to PAX. This includes updating Steam, Impulse, Origin, and such. You will have access to the Internet, but bandwidth is limited!
Please be sure to enable virus protection on your computer before connecting it to our network. Any computers that are found with a virus will be immediately disconnected from the network until the matter is resolved.
***AGAIN, PATCH YOUR PC BEFORE YOU ARRIVE***
The PAX South BYOC schedule is as follows:
Friday: 9:00am - 12:00am
Saturday: 10:00am - 12:00am
Sunday: 10:00am - 6:00pm
--- Tournament Schedule ---
The PC Tournament Schedule can be found on our forums. Note this does not account for the various BYOC contests we'll be peer pressuring you into.
--- BYOC Contests ---
The BYOC staff will be running organized games throughout each day in the games on the list. Some of the activities will have signups ahead of time while others you can just jump in game and join us. Extended descriptions for each of the organized events will be posted on the PAX Forums. Scheduled times will be available on site starting at check-in. The PAX South BYOC twitter account is @BYOC_South, and can be followed for updates leading up to and during the show.
--- Security Information ---
There's a lot more to do at PAX than just play PC games, and we want you to be able to go do all of these things secure in the knowledge that your computer and peripherals are safe and sound. To that end, we probably put a much higher emphasis on security than most other LAN parties. Before you enter the PAX BYOC area, you will have to quickly register your computer and any monitor you're bringing into the computer area. We've gone to great lengths to keep the security processes in check, and as such, please keep your BYOC badge as visible as possible when entering the room.
While we will make every attempt to keep all equipment in the room safe, be aware that there is little we can do to prevent iPods, tablets, portable game consoles, CD's, big wads of cash, and other small items from walking off. We strongly suggest you keep such items out of plain view and use some common sense when it comes to your own security. If you're coming with a laptop, we also STRONGLY recommend you invest in a laptop lock. Seriously.
--- Voice Chat Information ---
We will have Ventrilo servers available for tournaments and public gaming. While we will have the client available on our file server, it is recommended that you download and install Ventrilo before you come to the event. You can download the client at http://www.ventrilo.com.
If you have any PC related questions at all during PAX, please see the BYOC Help Desk (near the entrance of BYOC). If they're not able to provide a solution, they'll be able to direct you to the right people to get your problem solved.
That's all we've got! Thanks for reading all this, and see you all at PAX!
Group Seating Information
Group Seating RequirementsTo request group seating, use the seating chart below to choose your seats and email pax_pc at paxsite dot com
- Your party is considered a group if you have SIX or more people.
- Groups must pre-register seating assignments prior to PAX, or else seats will be based on first come first serve availability
- Requests are taken on a first come, first serve basis.
Include the following information when requesting:
Group Name
Number of People (include handles too)
Desired Location
BYOC FAQ
Q: What does B.Y.O.C. stand for?
A: "Bring Your Own Computer" a dedicated, secure place within PAX that attendees who purchase the additional badge have the ability to bring their own computer into PAX and play with other PAX attendees! It's a gigantic LAN Party and a pretty awesome place to rest your feet when you get tired of walking around the convention!
Q: How do I purchase a BYOC Badge?
A: Badges are being sold separately from PAX South Registration. BYOC badges will be mailed to you ahead of PAX just like your Attendee Badges.
Q: PAX is Sold Out. I didn't get PAX Admission Badges (3 day or single days). Can I still get into BYOC without?
A: No. BYOC Badges do not grant overall PAX show attendee admission. Obtain PAX Admission Badges prior to purchasing BYOC Badges.
Q: PAX is Sold Out. Am I able to purchase or obtain PAX Admission Badges (3 day or single days) when BYOC Badges sales open?
A: No. The BYOC Badge Registration Link is only for BYOC badges, and not PAX admission badges.
Q: How many BYOC Spots are available?
A: A total of 250 seats will be available at Pax South 2015.
Q: BYOC is sold out and I didn't get a pass! Are passes set aside for later purchase? What about cancellations?
A: We do not reserve any BYOC tickets for sale at a later date, so there are no additional tickets to be sold. If there are any cancellations, we may be able to, on an extremely limited basis, offer the cancelled tickets up for general purchase. Contact registration at paxsite dot com for specific inquiries.
Q: How much does BYOC cost?
A: $35 in addition to your regular 3-Day PAX pass (or Single Day Passes, should you decide to do that).
Q: What time do you recommend (or require) people show up for BYOC check-in?
A: Check in will start at 9:00 AM, 1 hour before PAX opening on Friday. Depending on this year's policy and layout, you may need to wait to get into the Expo Hall or return to the line after you set up your computer.
Q: What hours does the BYOC run each day?
A: Same hours as PAX, basically. The room will close down about an hour before the doors shut for PAX.
Q: Do I leave my stuff in the LAN the whole time?
A: Yes. The room is guarded all during PAX and locked up at night. We are the first ones in and the last ones out. If you must take your stuff up (like a laptop) you need to check it out at the security desk as you leave and check it back in when you return.
Q: What games are typically played?
A: Whatever is popular this year. TF2, LoL, COD4/5/6/7/etc, WoW, Starcraft 2, Portal 2, Monday Night Combat, L4D2, etc. If you want to play a game you can find others that are up for it as well.
Q: What if I want to play DOTA 2 this year? Are you guys going to have LoL?
A: Because we have a limited amount of bandwidth we are very careful to primarily include games that support local-only play. If a vendor chooses to sponsor bandwidth for their game we are able to include them on the image and plan for their allocation. Starting with PAX Prime 2013 we are now evaluating, on a case-by-case basis, exceptions to this rule.
Q: If I get a spot for the BYOC, I don't need to commit to being in there the whole time, right? Just when I feel like relaxing and playing some games with people?
A: Correct, you aren't chained to your spot in BYOC. The majority of BYOC attendees are just there in-between the PAX events that they want to go see.
Q: Can I bring my 30+ something inch monitor/TV?
A: No. The max monitor size is 27" due to power and space constraints.
Q: Can I bring my own chair?
A: NO! The convention center doesn't allow this. Please use the chairs provided.
Q: Can I bring a laptop with my desktop?
A: Yes, as long as you stay within your 30" of table space. Although remember you only get one network port and two power ports per seat and you can't use your own power strips
Q: Can I bring a switch or my own power strip to increase that?
A: NO! No outside networking devices are allowed. Any spotted will be removed.
A: Daisy chaining power strips is a HUGE NO as well. Fire Marshall hates that so we need to enforce this pretty seriously. Sorry.
Q: Can I charge my iPhone, Android, iPad or other gadgets using power provided to my BYOC Seat?
A: No, you are only given two power outlets for all of your stuff. If you need to charge your phone or other device, bring a USB cable.
Q: Do I need to bring a network cable?
A: Yes. You will need a network cable to hook your computer up to the network switch at your table. Bring around a 25ft cable otherwise, depending where you are sitting, the switch may be out of your cables reach.
Q: Can I bring *insert friend/Girlfriend/spouse/random person here* in BYOC with me?
A: No, Sorry. To ensure the security of everyone's personal equipment in a busy area such as PAX, only BYOC attendees are allowed into the BYOC room.
Q: Is there Internet in BYOC?
A: Yes there will be, although it will be locked down to prevent things like torrenting and throttled so not one person can use up all the bandwidth.
Q: But... how am I supposed to get my computer there?
A: Drive it! An alternate option which I have used to attend LANs that are far away, is to ship yourself your computer/monitor to your hotel you are staying at. If you call them and say you have a package coming they will hold it for you until you check-in. Just ship it back to yourself when PAX is over. There is a FedEx Office in the BCEC!
Q: Can I bring my xbox/playstation/nintendo console?
A: Sorry, no consoles allowed in here. This is a PC LAN. You can't being a console in addition either, those things use up a lot of power. Remember: You only get two power outlets.
Q: Can I Bring a cooler in for drinks/snacks?
A: Yes but only small personal coolers /w no ice (use the frozen gelpacks). If it has more than one handle and/or wheels then it won't be allowed in (think lunch sized cooler).
Q: Can I email you my question?
A: Yes! Feel free to email PC Questions to pax_pc at penny-arcade dot com
Q: WHERE is BYOC this year?
A: As this is the first PAX South, layout is still being determined. A map will be provided as soon as available.
This FAQ subject to change
Case Mod Showcase Information
Want to show off your awesome case mod near the entrance to BYOC? Want to sit in proximity to other case modders? We've carved out an area just for you! Register to sit in our Case Mod Showcase area of the BYOC!
As a note, this is optional and not required if you're bringing in a case mod.
Case Mod Showcase Registration Will Be Open Soon
Case Mod Showcase Requirements
- For starters, have a case mod!
- Provide us a picture of your case mod (either finished or in progress).
- Requests are taken on a first come, first serve basis.
[H]olyGeekboy on
0
Posts
Just as a reminder there are a few rules for Group Seating:
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
The Best in Terms of Pants on JCCC3
We still have no confirmation on this, we realize how much everyone likes this but I just do not have any info on this yet.
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
Correct. Three BYOC badges would get you three BYOC seats, each for all three days, if you wanted them for friends or such.
That is correct. BYOC is an add-on badge and you will have one badge for the duration of PAX.
I am not sure if you mean a personal cellular hotspot or connecting a Wireless Access point up in BYOC. We have no issues with personal cellular hotspots, but there will be no way for you to get onto the network to play games with everyone else. However, networking gear of any kind (switch, hub, WAP, Router, etc) are NOT permitted inside BYOC.
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
Group Seating requests will close in about a week or so. They need to be done and finalized before I head to San Antonio.
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
I have a group of 4, need at least 2 more to reserve a group seating area. PM if you are interested. Thanks
http://www.reddit.com/r/PAX/comments/2s6ntq/south_looking_for_2_more_byoc_group_seating/
I guess it's a good thing I kept that monitor box after all...
The Best in Terms of Pants on JCCC3
Everyone who is registered should have gotten an email with all the specifics you will need for Load-in and other specifics. If you did not receive anything we will add it to the OP.
See everyone at PAX, only a week away!!!!
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
See everyone at PAX!
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
Disregard read email, will call. Gah, first ever convention, so I'm a bit overboard atm
Great question - I just validated this with Dreggor and PA folks. The correct time is 9am, as per the mailer. The thread FAQ incorrectly stated 8am, and it has been retconned to say 9am.
Roger is correct, BYOC opens at 9:00am on Friday.
PAX Prime PC Room Deputy
PAX East PC Room Deputy
I'm in the same boat, I've been checking the mail everyday this week for it, got my general admission badge, but no BYOC badge received. I tried emailing about it, but don't quite know where else to go for info.... Help? :sad:
I know you guys say it's locked up and stuff, but how secure is the check in and check out, and how do I know a small item like my mouse or keyboard won't get hidden and taken off with as well?
Also, could I bring in my laptop the first day, for the day, then the next day bring in my PC instead? Because I need to install Garry's mod on my PC before I bring it in, and it's going to take a while to install Gmod, CSS, and Half Life Source
Stop by Will Call near the entry and show your email confirmation. They should be able to help, up to replacing your badge as necessary.
The PC area is secluded from the rest of PAX, patrolled by many staff, convention security, and police 24x7. It is as secure as possible.
Yes, you may check out your laptop when you leave Friday and check in your desktop Saturday. Tell them Roger said so. They will find me and ask if there is any concern Saturday when you are checking in, but it should be fine... we will just issue you additional labels against your badge number.