What better time to set up an electronics work bench! Since my layoff in 2010 from Tektronix I haven't done anything with electronics. I've changed careers (a couple of times). But I've had this hankering lately--an itch, a yen, a desire--to get back into it a bit.
So last weekend I went to Fry's and bought about $120 worth of soldering and rework tools. If I can find an inexpensive scope someday, I'll have everything I need. But, until I start designing something complex, I can get by with only my DMM. As for electronics components, desoldering parts from those old TV's I "inherited" are going to be my first contributors to my parts bin--once I actually have a parts bin, that is. I guess a visit to Dollar Tree is in order.
My interests at the moment (now that computers have morphed into single-chip throw-away phones) include sensors, batteries, solar cells, and robotics. And the web is full of DIY projects for ideas, including a new favorite: Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories. You can't go wrong with a name like that!
My goal was to do this as cheaply as possible, yet get the best value I could. I pre-priced all the items ahead of time at Fry's and pretty much stuck to my list that originally had a total price of about $93, plus tax.
Tools
| Velleman VTSS4N Solder Station | $22.99 |
| MG Solder 0.5LB | $18.95 |
| MG Solder Wick | $3.15 |
| ECG Desoldering pump | $6.89 |
| 4-1/2 inch Tweezers | $3.99 |
| Hakko Wire Cutter | $4.99 |
| Jonard Wire Stripper | $7.99 |
| Eclipse Glue Sticks | $4.99 |
| Round Hole Breadboard | $8.69 |
| NTE 5-Pair Alligator Clip set | $5.99 |
| EZ-Hook Miniature Alligator Clips | $4.19 |
| HBC Electrical Tape | $1.79 |
The extras I couldn't resist...
| Heat Shrink Tubing Kit | $8.99 |
| Extension cord, 3 outlets | $7.49 |
| Vacuum Base Vise | $5.99 |
| Cable Ties | $2.99 |
And, what I already have: DMM, Jewler's set of screwdrivers, needle nosed pliers, Philips screwdriver, slotted screwdriver, pliers, Xacto knife.
If I start working with integrated circuits I'll need an anti-static wrist strap. I could use a dispenser for rubbing alcohol and a brush to clean solder flux off components. But this basic set of tools is a good start. A "new" 2014 Rigol DS1052E 50MHz 2-Channel scope is $348 on Amazon, with 2 Hantek 100 MHz probes for $17. This is out of my budget right now, but I'll keep my eyes open for a deal on a used scope. If I start into radio, audio, digital, or computers I'll need a scope.
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