{"id":10512,"date":"2024-01-01T12:59:10","date_gmt":"2024-01-01T17:59:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/?p=10512"},"modified":"2024-01-01T13:15:58","modified_gmt":"2024-01-01T18:15:58","slug":"tools-for-electronics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dronebotworkshop.com\/tools-for-electronics\/","title":{"rendered":"Tools for Electronics – Selecting Tools for Your Workshop"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"View<\/a><\/p>\n

Today, we\u2019ll take a break from coding and electronics to review the tools needed for your electronics workshop.\u00a0 You\u2019ll also get a peek at some of the tools in my workshop if that interests you!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Introduction<\/span><\/h2>\n

They say that a craftsperson is only as good as their tools, and while that may sound a bit folksy, it\u2019s essentially true. It\u2019s also true that good tools tend to cost a lot of money.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Fortunately, when it comes to working with electronics, putting together a basic tool set of reasonable quality isn\u2019t going to break the bank. While you can certainly spend several thousand dollars on a large selection of top-quality tools, you can also get a small set that will handle most of your needs for about a hundred dollars.<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, we\u2019ll look at some of the tools you might want to have around your workshop.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Long Article – Please Read This First!<\/span><\/h2>\n

Here are a few quick tips in case you don\u2019t want to read all 7000 words of this article:<\/span><\/p>\n

In a Hurry?<\/b> – <\/span>There are Shopping lists for Beginners<\/a>, Creator\/Builder<\/a> and Service\/Repair<\/a><\/strong> users at the end of the article (click links to go direct)<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Before You Click the Images<\/b> –<\/span> The clickable images in this article are Amazon affiliate links and will take you to related products in your local Amazon store.<\/strong><\/span> If you make a purchase, the DroneBot Workshop may receive a commission. This does not increase your price and is a method of supporting this advertising-free website.<\/span><\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Table of Contents<\/strong> – There is a Table of Contents with this article. Use it to jump to the section that interests you.<\/em><\/p>\n

Shop Local<\/strong> – While I appreciate the convenience of shopping online, if you have a local electronics store, support it with your business.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Enjoy the article and video!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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User Types\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

To assist you in making the best selection of tools for your personal situation, I have created three \u201cuser types.\u201d These \u201cuser types\u201d are broad personality definitions, and you should be able to position yourself in one or more of these groups.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Beginner \/ Student<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"If experimenting with microcontrollers and electronics is new to you, this is likely your group.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You probably don\u2019t have a lot in the way of tools, nonetheless, you want to try and get by with just a small investment.\u00a0 Perhaps electronics is just something that you need to do for school, and you’re not sure if you\u2019ll ever do it again after you graduate. Or you might just be \u201ctesting\u201d electronics as a possible hobby; if you like it, you can upgrade your toolkit later.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You needn’t necessarily be a beginner to fit into this group. You may be a seasoned programmer or product developer who wants to work on microcontrollers and needs a few tools for prototyping.<\/span><\/p>\n

Creator \/ Builder<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"The \u201cCreator \/ Builder\u201d likes to get their hands dirty (figuratively, anyway) and build cool projects. They know all the basics and appreciate that they will need some decent tools to create beautiful projects.<\/span><\/p>\n

With that in mind, folks in this group are willing to make a small investment. They would rather purchase a few high-quality tools they know will last instead of a big set of lower-quality items.\u00a0 Having used all the basic tools many times, these folks know how a good tool should feel and perform.<\/span><\/p>\n

You don\u2019t have to be a dedicated maker to fit into this group. Any electronics hobbyist who enjoys constructing the occasional item from scratch will be most welcome here.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Service \/ Repair<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"You probably already have a decent toolset if you’re in this group. You can probably skip past the basics and get to the more specialized tools.<\/span><\/p>\n

People who hang out in the \u201cService \/ Repair\u201d group take this hobby pretty seriously. It may be more than a hobby; many lifelong technicians and developers fit in here.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you need new tools, you research and buy the best; as you know, there is no value in cheap tools.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Selecting Your Group<\/span><\/h3>\n

Don\u2019t be dismayed if you don\u2019t fit exactly into one group; few of us do.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many folks fall into both the \u201cCreator \/ Builder\u201d and \u201cService \/ Repair\u201d groups; personally, I think that is where I fit. I don\u2019t really repair a lot of stuff, but I do perform a lot of custom installation work along with my electronics experimenting.<\/span><\/p>\n

People who have been doing this for a while may feel they are in both the \u201cBeginner \/ Student\u201d and \u201cCreator \/ Builder\u201d groups.\u00a0 Perhaps you\u2019re no longer a beginner and want to jump into building bigger projects, but you also want to keep an eye on costs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Between this article and its associated video, you should be able to determine what tools you need to purchase, if any, and what ones you don\u2019t need to worry about – at least now!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Screwdrivers<\/span><\/h2>\n

We will start with one of the most basic hand tools there is – the screwdriver.<\/span><\/p>\n

No one knows who actually invented the screwdriver or the screw. They were likely invented in the late 15th century, either in Germany or France. The tool’s original names were “Schraubenzieher” (screw-tightener) in German and “Tournevis” (turn screw) in French. As screws were difficult to produce in quantity, widespread use didn\u2019t begin until the First Industrial Revolution.<\/span><\/p>\n

Screw Heads<\/span><\/h3>\n

There are literally dozens of types of screw heads, <\/span>Wikipedia has a nice list of them<\/span><\/a> if you are interested.\u00a0 The chart below shows the ones you are most likely to encounter when working with electronics:<\/span><\/p>\n

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The chart also shows the types of screws that are most commonly used in electronics assembly. It is useful to know these names if you are building a project and need to order screws.<\/span><\/p>\n

Screw Sizes<\/span><\/h3>\n

Most modern electronic equipment uses Metric fasteners, as opposed to SAE ones.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Metric screws are measured by their \u201cM\u201d size, with the number indicating the screw diameter in millimeters.\u00a0 The most common one you\u2019ll encounter is the M3, a 3mm wide screw.<\/span><\/p>\n

The screw length is also in millimeters, so an M3-20 screw is 3mm wide and 20mm long (the length refers to the threads section and does not include the screw head).<\/span><\/p>\n

Other common screw sizes you\u2019ll run across are M2, M2.5 (a lot of Raspberry Pi stuff uses this size) and M4.<\/span><\/p>\n

Selecting Screwdrivers<\/span><\/h3>\n

I will go out on a limb here, and guess you already have a few screwdrivers lurking around. Perhaps it\u2019s one of those \u201call-in-one\u201d combo-driver things that store bits (sometimes double-sided ones) in the handle. Better yet, a complete set of screwdrivers from your local hardware or \u201cbig box\u201d store, with a selection of the most common types and sizes.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Precision Screwdriver Set (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While I encourage everyone to have a set of general-purpose screwdrivers, you’ll find that for electronics work, you will need to also have a few smaller drivers in your collection.\u00a0 Users in every group should pick up a set of small Phillips and Flathead drivers. Spend a few extra dollars here and get a good set, as cheap ones will wear the heads quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here is a set of small screwdrivers that I use. I like these as they have good-quality heads, and they also have rotating tops. This is very useful when you need to apply pressure to a screw when rotating it, a technique used to open screws sealed with thread sealant like Loctite.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Security Bit Set (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you do service work, you will want to have a wide selection of screwdriver types, and the most practical way of doing this is to get a large bit set, one that has every bit imaginable. These are not that expensive, so advanced makers might also want to pick one of these kits up.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Multifunction Precision Screwdriver Kit (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Service folk may also want to pick up specialized screwdrivers, such as security drivers or extra-long ones, for job-specific service work.\u00a0 Beginner and creator types probably won\u2019t need such esoteric screwdrivers!<\/span><\/p>\n

Nut Drivers<\/span><\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re a beginner or have no plans to do any assembly work, Nut Drivers fall into the \u201cnice to have but not necessary\u201d category.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Metric Nut Driver Set (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

But if you are a maker or do service work, these tools are essential, as they make assembly and disassembly easier. Much easier than using pliers or wrenches in most situations (case in point- I don\u2019t even cover wrenches in this article).<\/span><\/p>\n

As most of the fasteners you\u2019ll come across will be Metric, you must get a set of Metric nut drivers. These come in all sizes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Metric Nut Drivers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The ones you find at your \u201cbig box\u201c store may be too large for electronics work. A better place to shop would be a hobby shop specializing in RC vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft. The fasteners used in these hobbies are the same ones used in electronics.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here are the nut drivers that you really should have; you\u2019ll find sets containing some or most of them:<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Screw Size<\/span><\/td>\nNut Driver Size<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
M2<\/span><\/td>\n4.0mm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
M2.5<\/span><\/td>\n5.0mm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
M3<\/span><\/td>\n5.5mm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
M4<\/span><\/td>\n7.0mm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
M5<\/span><\/td>\n8.0mm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

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An important feature to look for when selecting a Nut Driver is a hollow, or partly hollow, shaft. This is essential, as it allows the screw to extend beyond the nut.\u00a0 This is why Nut Drivers are preferable to using socket attachments for screwdrivers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Allen Keys<\/span><\/h3>\n

Allen Keys are also called Hex Keys; the term \u201cAllen\u201d is a trademark established in 1910 by the Allen Manufacturing Company (now owned by Apex Tool Group).<\/span><\/p>\n

These rival screwdrivers as the simplest tools. In their most basic form, they are just a piece of hexagonal rebar bent at 90 degrees.\u00a0 If you have assembled any Ikea furniture at any point in your life, you already own or more, although those are a bit big for electronics.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once again, Metric sizes dominate the field, so you\u2019ll want to pick up a set of Metric Allen Keys. You can also get screwdriver bits with common Metric Allen Key sizes.<\/span><\/p>\n

One feature that I suggest you look for is Allen Keys with a rounded end, as shown here. This design makes it easier to work on a fastener at an angle, a situation you\u2019ll often find yourself in.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Metric Allen Keys (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This tool will benefit the creator\/maker and service\/ repair user types. Beginners won\u2019t need to rush out and get a set of Allen Keys.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pliers and Wire Strippers<\/span><\/h2>\n

Pliers and Wire Strippers fall into the \u201cessential\u201d tool category when working with electronics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Your \u201cbig box store\u201d complete tool kit likely came with a set of pliers (perhaps a few styles) and some diagonal wire cutters. These are usually too large to use when working with electronics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pliers<\/span><\/h3>\n

When it comes to pliers, you should spend some time and make a good selection. Pliers become an extension of your hand, so selecting a well-made tool of the correct size is essential. If you have very large or very small hands, you\u2019ll want to take that into consideration.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsunoda Needle Nosed Pliers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most common type of pliers used in electronics are needle-nosed pliers.\u00a0 These are available in many different configurations. You will probably want at least a straight and bent pair, no matter which user type you identify with.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Vampliers 5.5″ Precision No Serration (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you are a beginner, then a good way to get a good selection of pliers, and probably some diagonal cutters, is to purchase a complete set. If you budget about 30 dollars, you\u2019ll have a wide selection of decent tools to do the job.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsunoda SPB-140 Bent Nose Lead Pliers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

More advanced makers and service folks will likely want higher-quality pliers. A higher-quality tool is made of stainless steel or carbon steel and is precision-mad, with ends that mesh together perfectly. They will be spring-loaded, using either a spring or leaf (the jury is still unsure which one is better; I use both).<\/span><\/p>\n

Tools of this caliber will cost 20 dollars or more a piece, but they are well worth it to someone who spends a lot of time working with them.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsunoda TM-06 Needle Nose Pliers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Vampliers<\/span><\/h3>\n

A special type of plier that will interest those in the service\/repair group is the Vamplier.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These are actually a set of pliers made by the Vampire Tool Company, and they sport a unique \u201cclawed\u201d design. This gives them the ability to extract screws even when the screw head is damaged, preventing removal using a screwdriver.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Vampliers 2-PC Screw Extraction Pliers Set (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

I own two sets of these, which have already proven their worth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vampire Tools also makes conventional pliers, a few of which I own as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wire Cutters & Strippers<\/span><\/h3>\n

Your set of pliers or your \u201cbig box\u201d tool set may have come with a set of diagonal cutters, which are made to cut wire.\u00a0 They are certainly useful, but other tools can also assist in cutting wire and removing its insulation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wire Cutters<\/span><\/h4>\n

Many tools cut wire, and some tools, like wire strippers and crimpers, have a wire-cutting function.\u00a0 Which one is best really depends upon what wire you want to cut and where it is.\u00a0 This applies to users in every group.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Tsunoda TM-12 Nippers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you simply have a piece of hookup wire you want to cut into smaller pieces, then any wire-cutting solution, including diagonal cutters, will do the truck. All you really require is a sharp blade (be careful when working with any cutting tool).<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Engineer NS-04 Micro Nippers (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

But if the wire is the lead of a component, then you might want to look at a pair of side or flush cutters or \u201csnippers.\u201d Electricians commonly use these, and they are quite inexpensive. Their design allows them to get right up against the circuit board.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

One cautionary note: when clipping those component leads, be careful, as the excess lead can often fly off at high velocity in a random direction. If that random direction happens to be the direction of one of your eyes, you could be seriously injured. A good technique is to cover the lead end with your thumb to prevent the lead from taking off; otherwise, wear eye protection.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Xcelite 170M General Purpose Shearcutter (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Miniature diagonal cutters are also useful for this task.<\/span><\/p>\n

Manual Wire Strippers<\/span><\/h4>\n

A simple pair of manual wire strippers is popular among electronics technicians. They can be used to strip insulation from most types of wire, and they also serve as wire cutters. Indeed, if you could only own one wire tool, this would be it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

But using one of these tools properly requires some experience, and without it, you\u2019re likely to nick or break the wire instead of stripping it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
Klein 11057 Klein-Kurve Wire Stripper\/Cutter (click to go to Amazon)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A better choice for users of all levels is to get a set of dedicated manual wire strippers. These work with a range of wire gauges, and you may find that you need two of them to cover all the different wire types you\u2019ll encounter:<\/span><\/p>\n