Nuts and Volts - November 2014

that is guaranteed for life, such as Craftsman.

The last tool on my bench that I want to mention is my magnifying lamp (Figure 18). When working on small parts — especially SMD components — this lamp comes in very handy. I picked it up from MCM Electronics for under $50 and it is very solid. I supplement this lamp with several 10X loupes I keep handy and bought for $1.50 each.

Power Tools

I didn’t mention power tools because I keep those in my garage and have a separate bench out there where I cut and drill to keep dust outside the house when possible. The two most important power tools I have are my De Walt cordless drill and my Dremel. Both tools are essential to my work, and both are used at least weekly for some task. The cordless drill has both drill bits and taps which allow me to thread holes into metal for screws. My Dremel tool is often used to cut holes, screws, or debur and polish panels.

Always wear proper eye protection when using power tools, and even when soldering or trimming leads! Never underestimate the damage a flying component lead or molten solder could do to your eyes.

Final Thoughts

Did anyone notice the blue mat that covers my entire bench? If you haven’t or didn’t know what it was, it is an anti-static mat that is grounded at the corner of the bench. This provides static protection when I am working on the bench — especially since the weather here is always dry and everything is carpeted. If you don’t have one of these, you could use an anti-static wrist strap. Don’t underestimate the importance of static precautions when working with electronic components and devices either.

As often as I am asked what tools I use, I hope this article not only answers those questions but also offers some insight into my motivation for selecting some of the tools and brands I use.

I think of myself as pretty particular about my tools. Since I make my living using them, I do not loan them out. However, I have been known to pass tools on that I no longer use, but that are still viable. If you are the recipient of such tools, then you know how I feel when I acquire one from someone else. NV