Basic Electronic Components and Supplies Needed by the Electronics Newbie

Basic Components and Supplies to Start Out

Working on electronic projects is a great way of learning electronics and depending upon the project undertaken, a number of tools and electronic components may be needed accordingly. There are some basic electronic components and supplies which are needed in almost all electronic projects and are a 'must have.'

The first electronic components that you need to look into are resistors. You should have a good range of resistors in different values ranging from one ohm to 10 mega ohms with a 5% tolerance. Carbon film resistors are a good choice for small electronic projects. They are inexpensive and readily available from both online and offline merchants.

Another important component that is needed are capacitors. Ceramic disc capacitors or electrolytic capacitors are both good choices for beginning electronics projects, and again, a good variety would be needed in terms of values. Lower voltage capacitors (up to 50V) would certainly suffice for most beginners projects.

Signal diodes are also a good buy for electronic projects and these electronic components find application in a number of projects. A package of 50, 1N914 silicon diodes are a good choice as they can be used for both switching and analog signals.

The next electronic component to consider would be rectifier diodes which are needed in power supplies. About 20 of these diodes in varying values would be a good number to begin with.

Transistors are the next electronic components to be considered. PNP and NPN, which are the most common and widely available transistor would be needed. I recommend TO92 package for beginners.

LEDS, in a mix of colors and both rectangular and round packages are a good addition. Most standard LEDS readily available require about 3V to power them.

A switch is a good component to have on hand. Often switches are used to turn your circuit on or off. If you have to choose only one to start, choose a toggle or push button switch.

Depending upon the circuits and projects, some integrated circuits would also be needed. One of the most commonly used ICS is the 555 timer. Like all of the components listed above, they are available in both through hole and surface mount packages. Start with the through hole type until you feel more comfortable soldering smaller components.

Last but not least, some hookup wire and circuit boards are a must for electronics projects. Depending on your project, how about a project box or enclosure? These protect your circuit from the elements and dust and can be mounted with screws.

Ready to get started with electronics? Now that you have the basic components all together, find yourself a good book on basic circuits. If you're really new to electronics, don't be afraid to get a book that is geared towards children. The simple explanations and diagrams in those books will have you ready to move to the next level of experimenting quickly!

Andy Bauer is a tech writer for http://www.westfloridacomponents.com an internet based retailer of electronic parts and supplies.

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