Tools And Equipment

This is a list of the tools I use that you might have seen on my videos. Please note: Some of these links are affiliate links that help me raise a small amount of money for the show. By clicking on them you are supporting my content without adding any cost to you. If you don’t want to use them that’s fine, too.

What’s missing from this list? If you see me using something in a video that you think should be listed here, let me know in the comments here or on YouTube.

Beginner Tools

Flush Cutters

Absolute must for cutting off component leads.

Large Wire Stripper

For larger power supply wires, etc.

Small Wire Stripper

For more common, smaller wires.

Soldering Iron

The one I have isn’t available anymore. The upgraded model should be very dependable with adjustable temperature and auto-off. This is the 120V version.

Bench Light

A well lit working surface is a must!

IFIXIT Tool Kit

This kit has most of the bits and small tools you will need all in one tidy package.

Multimeter

My Radio Shack meter isn’t made anymore, but any cheap meter should be fine to start with. This one looks a bit like Darth Vader 🙂

Wire – Multicolor

You’ll need this for making a cable or just fixing a basic connection.

Parts Storage

These storage bins are stackable and wall mountable. Great for little parts.

Digital Caliper

Measurements are critical for even small mods. This caliper will also help you design simple models to be 3D printed.

Hot Glue Gun

A glue gun with multi temperatures can be helpful.

Black Glue Stick

This black glue sticks seems to work better than the regular kind.

Hot Air Gun

Hot air guns are great for shrink tubing and for warming labels to get them to come off more easily.

Helping Hands

Pretty hard to solder wires together without helping hands.

Utility Knifes

One of my most used tools.

Expert Tools

Hot Air Rework Station

The one I have isn’t available anymore, but if I had to order another it would be this one.

Gotek Drive

This is the floppy drive emulator I use along with FlashFloppy firmware.

Desoldering Station

This is a nice inexpesive desoldering station. Emptying the solder catcher is a bit of a pain though.

Sous Vide

I use this to keep my peroxide at a constant 140 degrees.

Oscilloscope

If you already have a computer at your bench, this two channel oscilloscope can save some space.

Cleaners and Solvents

Isopropyl Alcohol

For cleaning off marks and stickers.

DeoxIT

Great for cleaning contacts on pins and in sockets.

Super Star 40 Vol Peroxide

This is the peroxide I use to Retrobrite yellowed plastics. It is 12.5% peroxide not 40% but it’s called 40v or 40vol. Use gloves when handling!

Recording Equipment

Tripod Head

This is the tripod head that I use to mount my camera for my overhead shots.

Microphone Stand

I use this to hold my mic close to my mouth for voice overs.

Voice Over Mic

This is the microphone I use for voice overs.

Shotgun Mic

This is the mic I use to capture audio directly into the camera.

Fill Lights

These are the fill lights I use while I am recording myself talking.

Main Camera

This is the main camera I use for most everything.

Lav Mic

This is the lav mic I use for most of my recordings.