Waterloo Workshops

I keep having to find or create Makerspaces/labs wherever I go so I’m just going to write the list of things I need here and the best places to find them. I’m wondering if it’s worth to

  1. Soldering Station:
    • Temperature-controlled soldering iron.
    • Desoldering pump or wick.
  2. Multimeter:
    • A reliable digital multimeter for measuring voltage, current, and resistance.
  3. Power Supply:
    • Adjustable DC power supply with overcurrent protection.
  4. Hand Tools:
    • Precision screwdrivers (Phillips, flathead, Torx).
    • Needle-nose pliers and wire strippers.
    • Flush cutters for trimming leads.
  5. Prototyping Boards:
    • Breadboards of various sizes.
    • Stripboards or perfboards for semi-permanent builds.
  6. 3D Printer (Optional):
    • For custom enclosures or component holders.
  7. Workbench:
    • ESD-safe mat and grounding strap.
    • Pegboard or tool organizer.

Consumables

  1. Electronic Components:
    • Resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, and LEDs.
    • Common ICs (555 timers, op-amps, logic gates).
  2. Wires & Connectors:
    • Jumper wires, hookup wires, and various connectors.
  3. Soldering Supplies:
    • Solder wire (preferably lead-free).
    • Flux paste or pen.
  4. Heat Shrink Tubing:
    • For insulating exposed connections.
  5. Adhesives:
    • Epoxy, super glue, and insulating tape.

Safety Equipment

  1. Fume Extractor:
    • To avoid inhaling solder fumes.
  2. Safety Glasses:
    • To protect your eyes from debris.
  3. Fire Extinguisher:
    • Specifically rated for electrical fires.