Physical Computing Toolkit

Here's a list of tools that are useful for physical computing work. Some of these are things you'll use so often, they're worth having even if you're just taking an introductory class. Others are not recommended unless you're setting up a home shop, or planning to continue with physical computing on your own. These are my recommended parts, which I usually buy through Jameco. Feel free to replace with your own as you see fit. These item numbers are provides as a reference, so you can look them up on Jameco and get a useful range for each tool.

Very useful Items (even for an intro class)

Item	Vendor	Part No.	Cost	Notes
miniature Philips/flathead screwdriver	Jameco	127271	$1.49	This one is handy, with tips on both ends.
5" Diagonal Wire Cutter	Jameco	161411	$6.95
Wire stripper, 22-30 AWG	Jameco	159290	$8.95
Flat needlenose pliers	Jameco	35473	$4.95
Drillbits, 7/64", 1/8", 5/16", 1/4"	--	--	--	These sizes are the ones you'll need most often for wood, plastic, and thin metal. Most hardware stores will carry them for less than a dollar each.

Useful for the more dedicated user:

Item	Vendor	Part No.	Cost	Notes
IC Extractor	Jameco	16766	$3.95
Alligator Leads	Jameco	10444	$3.29
Digital Multimeter	Jameco	136590	$69.95	This is a top-of-the-line meter, but much cheaper digital multimeters will do fine doe most applications.
Third Hand Soldering Aid	Jameco	26690	$5.95	You need something like this when soldering, because you have three things to hold.
Wire				22AWG solid core hookup wire is best for breadboards. I keep a roll of black, red, and one or two other colors on hand.
xacto kit	Jameco	72768	$9.95
glue gun	Jameco	72696	$9.95
Toolbox	K-Mart, etc.			You don’t need a big heavy metal toolbox. Fishing tackle boxes because the tiny compartments work great for resistors and things but a Tupperware container or shoe box would work fine

Buy only if you're setting up your own shop:

Item	Vendor	Part No.	Cost	Notes
Soldering Station, WLC100	Jameco	146595	$49.95	Comes with a stand and a sponge, much safer and handier than the cheap ones.
21AWG lead-free solder	Digikey	KE1351-ND	$15.90	Get the lead-free solder, even though it's more expensive; it's better for your lungs.
Solder Tip, conical, 1/32"	Jameco	146624	$5.95	Spare tip for the iron. This is a fine, pointed tip.