So you started a new hobby. You watched those awesome YouTube videos and now want to build things on your own. You gather all the components to make that cool robot but as you begin to build it, you realize that there is more to it. Along with the components to build your project you also need a set of tools to help you in the process.
Being a beginner you might find it hard to find the right tools for your need or you might be confused on which ones to buy. But fear not, as I am here to help.
In this article, I have listed the top 10 must-have tools for makers. So without any further ado, Let’s begin.
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1. Breadboard Kit.
Breadboard is very essential for prototyping. Almost every project needs to be tested before you build the final product. A breadboard helps you test your circuits before soldering it on a PCB. The kits I shared here have everything you will need to prototype your circuits. Along with the Breadboard it also have multiple jumper wires and a power supply unit with both 5V and 3.3V options. You can buy one from: (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
2. Soldering Kit.
A good soldering kit is must have for all makers. In some point in time you will need to make the breadboard prototype into a permanent circuit. I personally have been using this kit for some time now and it has never given a reason to complain so far. Although there are a lot of professional soldering stations out there, This one is best for beginners as it is cheap, the iron has adjustable temperature and you get a lot of tools which come in handy. Though I recommend moving to a more professional station once you get hold of soldering. Best buy links: (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
3. Helping Hands.
You never realise it’s need until you start soldering. Helping hands hold the PCB and components in place while you solder them. The magnifying glass comes into play when you are doing SMD. I have been using this for over 2 years now and it really helped me a lot. You might wanna add some heat shrink tubing on those clips they can be harsh on soft components. Buy one from (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
4. Screw Driver Set.
This is a tool we all need. Having a screwdriver set around is a must for every maker. This particular one is modular. So you get 45 different heads that will server most of your needs. It comes in a neat package with everything labeled properly. Buy one from (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
5. Multimeter.
Multimeter comes in handy while trouble shooting. When making circuits one must always check if the components are in good condition, if the components are of right value and correct orientation. Multimeter helps with these tasks. Using one can save you hours of trouble shooting and save life of may components. Get one from (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
6. Pliers.
Pliers always comes handy. Many times you have to get in tight spaces to hold nuts or bend the leads of components. Trust me you will use this thing a lot. Best but links: (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
7. Wire Strippers.
Another tool which comes to rescue while making circuits is a wire stripper/cutter. When you know you are going to be working with electronics you either get this or better have strong teeth. Spending a few bucks on a wire stripper makes life so much easy. Get one from (Amazon US Amazon EU / Banggood).
8. Hot Glue Gun.
Sometimes you just want to skip all the drilling and screwing and go the easy way. Hot glue comes in handy when you are prototyping a project and want to get quick with it. It has saved many of my builds at the last moment. Plus all the cool art stuff you can do with it shown on those YouTube videos ;p
Best buy links: (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
9. Vernier Caliper.
When you are designing something like a chassis for a robot or enclosure for the project, measurements are very essential. Especially when you want precise measurements to 3D print something for your project. Vernier Caliper is a very useful tool. Apart from the length it also helps measure the inner diameters and depth. Best buy links: (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
10. Bench Power Supply.
Many people skip this tool. But it is one of the most essential instruments you will need in your lab. While prototyping and testing components you might need anywhere from 3.3V or 15V (Most of my projects stay in this range). It is always handy to have a variable power supply to power projects as it is more efficient than having a bunch of batteries. Get one from (Amazon US / Amazon EU / Banggood).
Final Note:
So these are the tools I use personally and they have helped me a lot. Hope this article helps you in setting up your lab. If you have any suggestions feel free to share them in the comment section, let us know what tools you use the most.
Don’t forget to check out the Top 5 microcontroller boards of 2021.
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