If you are looking to enter into the wide world of electronics, you are going to want to learn about the basic tools and principals about electronics. To start, I highly recommend Dave Jones’ “EEV Blog” on YouTube, and his 3 part introductory series to the electronics world. He covers tools, through-hole soldering, and surface mount soldering. Check it out below.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5Sb21qbpEQ
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYz5nIHH0iY
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9FC9fAlfQE
The one thing I disagree with Dave on however, is that you need to purchase high-quality expensive tools upfront to make good solder joints– its simply not true. When you get to the point where you thoroughly enjoy electronics work, only then should you consider taking the next step of in skill by buying professional tools to hone your craft.
Below I have hand picked my recommendations for the best set of entry-level tools and projects that wont break the bank. With these tools you will be able to do any of the DIY kits listed below, or follow a guide and create your own specialty circuits from scratch!
The Tools:
Firstly you will need soldering tools for the electronics work, then further down the road a multi-meter for taking measurements will be useful. The tools you should get are down below if you want to get into electronics, quick and dirty. I’ve listed Dave’s recommendations from the video below as well if you are seriously interested in pursuing small electronics.
This solder does have a lead content included and as such you should be aware of the health effects of lead.
The Projects:
Finally, the best part about learning a new skill, is using it for something useful! Many people choose to start with kits and fun projects– theses are perfect to wet your apatite. These kits are entry-level and designed to test your ability to solder and troubleshoot circuits. You will learn a knowledge of components, their function, and how to use your tools to create projects. Once you have fundamental knowledge in the area, you can choose any direction in your electrical work.
I recommend purchasing an arduino along with a kit of pre-built components kit to learn about specific devices such as stepper motors, near field communications devices, LED/LCD displays, and much more. Using an arduino will also teach you programming at an entry level, and will make your devices come alive with a computer.
You could also stick to component-level circuits, and replicate diagrams for timers, flashers, buzzers and more. You will use these circuits together to create more advanced creations!
In the end, its pretty hard to go wrong when learning a new skill. Even if you fail at first, any exposure to electronics is helping you on your way. Don’t forget that there are plenty of free online resources to help you learn and understand electrical circuits. Search around the internet for open source projects or circuit diagrams that interest you and run with them! There is no better way to learn than by doing. You’ll be on your way to building electronics in no time.