Keywords:Tools, Electrical, Electronic Devices, Inspection, Repair, Design
Whether you are a beginner trying out amateur projects or an experienced engineer, you need tools to complete your projects.Here, I will introduce some of the most important tools for me, and then I would also like to hear about the tools you use and why they are important.
For me personally, the most important tool is the Digital Multimeter (DMM).
The one I use is the TPI model 126 series, which is very simple. It can check AC/DC voltage, current, and resistance, and I also like and often use the diode testing feature. Whether you are designing circuits or inspecting circuits for diagnosis or repair, a good multimeter is essential.
In addition to the DMM, various related tools are needed depending on your specific needs, whether you need to perform electronic repairs or want to build projects or design prototypes based on the Arduino platform?
Below, I will provide some personal suggestions for these two applications.
First, I recommend preparing a small pair of side cutters and tweezers.
I use the 1742-1083-ND side cutters, which are very suitable for cutting off residual solder after soldering, cutting wires, and various other operations.This is undoubtedly the hand tool I use the most on my workbench.
When placing components on the circuit board, a good set of tweezers or mini needle-nose pliers is also essential.
When preparing to replace damaged components, you will need a good soldering iron or soldering station to complete the repair work.
In most repair work, the soldering iron needs at least 50W of rated power to successfully desolder and solder new components.I recommend using a soldering station, which is not only easy to use but also adjustable.I personally use the Weller WES51 soldering station.
This great little device comes with a stand.While many people would recommend using a desoldering station, with this tool’s soldering pen and desoldering braid, you can remove most components without damaging the circuit board.
When building projects or designing prototypes, you typically won’t start soldering right away.After selecting the circuit board, you also need to prepare several important items.
First is the power supply; you need to equip a good desktop power supply.
In the beginning, you don’t need to choose the top-of-the-line product; a product like the B&K Precision 1550 power supply is sufficient.This power supply can provide 1-36V DC voltage and 0-3A current, capable of powering most workbench projects and circuit boards, and it is very affordable for beginners entering the electronics field.
Next is the circuit testing board for simulating projects.
I recommend choosing a slightly larger circuit board, such as the Adafruit 443 circuit board shown above.This large space circuit testing board keeps the project neat and organized, and allows for future expansion.
The last item you need to prepare is jumper wires.I prefer to choose a single wire set similar to BKWK-2-ND (as shown above).This single wire is very stiff, helping to organize wiring and keeping the circuit testing board tidy.
This post only lists some basic tools needed; while I could continue to list more tools, I want to know what tools you have on your workbench?
You can share with us in the replies.Please be sure to specify the purpose of these tools, their key features, and why everyone should have them!
For more technical information about tools, please refer to:
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Engineer PA-09 Universal Crimping Tool (20-32 AWG)
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Engineer PA-21 Universal Crimping Tool (18-26 AWG)
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Discussion on Material Pads
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Tinning for Circuit Boards
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PCB Milling Tips
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Determine the Adhesive Suitable for Your Project
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