Looking to experiment with electronics or learn some serious skills in circuitry? Here’s how to kickstart your hobby to ensure a successful and safe dive into the world of wires!
Create a workspace
Before you do anything else, create a workspace that can be dedicated to your new hobby. Keeping a space separate from your work desk and leisure areas will help to protect your projects from accidental damage and small pieces from being lost. Ensure the worktop is clean and clear and surrounded by suitable storage options. This might be a set of drawers beneath the desk or a set of stackable boxes with handy compartments for different pieces and specialised equipment.
Invest in the right tools
The next step is to invest in the right tools. These can make all the difference in the quality of your projects, help you to make precise measurements and conduct each task with ease. Key tools include:
- Soldering iron and solder – to secure two pieces of metal together
- Wire cutters – make clean and precise cuts in lengths of wire
- Wire strippers – to remove the insulative ends of electrical wire
- Oscilloscope – for measuring voltage over time in electronic circuits and devices
- Multimeter – available as analogue or digital, a multimeter is used to diagnose faults
- Circuit board – a platform for building and testing electronic circuits
Remember to think about the most important tool of all – a power supply!
Learn the symbols
Electronics are often depicted as schematics – 2D diagrams made up of simple shapes and signs. You must learn the symbols to be able to follow instructions in building circuits and other electronic devices.
An easy way to familiarise yourself with schematics and symbols is to use an online circuit simulator that allows you to play around with 2D designs in a safe environment. Discover what can affect each element of the circuit and the effects they have when used in different ways and places.
You can also go online or do an apprenticeship with a professional to study the symbols used in electrical work.
Pick a platform
Kits with key components and handy step-by-step guides are a hands-on way for you to gain skills in electronics. To communicate with and control these physical parts, you’ll need to pick a platform that’s geared towards programming. There are three main hardware platforms to choose from, each designed for a particular use and with its positives and problems:
- Arduino is a flexible tool that can just about do it all, ideal for those without a niche interest
Raspberry Pi is geared towards computing and can be used to code your projects in
languages like Python - For beginners, BBC micro:bit is comprehensive and easy to use
Stewart Thurlow
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