To build things such as DIY electronics projects using Arduino or ESP32 development boards, we will need a small (but dedicated) work area, a few tools, and some basic electronics components. Commonly, to set up such a project, the barrier is budget. In this article, we have carefully listed the components which are almost mandatory to have, can be used by any level of user and can be used in many projects.
The Development Boards, Smartphone, Router and Computer
You should have a few development boards with programable microcontrollers such as ESP32, Arduino UNO, ATtiny85, Raspberry Pi etc.
These days we often have serious smart tools connected to the router. We think it is better to avoid using such router’s IP, username-password etc for developmental purposes. It is good to have a separate router (for WiFi/internet access). You can use a smartphone’s hotspot feature. The idea is to not expose your home router to any vulnerability or dysfunction. In that room or table, you can have a low-end computer for uploading the codes. Using a dedicated computer helps to get the job done faster.
---
Apart from these, you should have gloves, eye protection gear and the commonly used tools for any DIY project such as a glue gun, a hammer, a few nails, pieces of wooden boards, pliers (including wire stripping pliers, long nose pliers) etc. Avoid using your teeth, fingernails, tongue and instruments from the kitchen.
The Development Boards, Smartphone, Router and Computer
The first and most important tool you should have is a multimeter. Even the cheapest multimeter is better to have than no multimeter at all.
Also you need a solderless breadboard, and a system for supplying power to it.
Next, you need some wires and a bunch of jumper wires. You’ll find a lot of them on online retailers such as Amazon or eBay.
Next is soldering iron, Rosin-core solder and few prototyping boards.
You can buy a third-hand tool. Buy one or two nice-looking electronics component boxes for the components. On Amazon or eBay, you’ll get the commonly used LEDs, 7-segment LED display, diodes, capacitors, resistors, IC, male headers, female headers, 9V battery with clip-on connector, potentiometer, push buttons, servo, DC motor etc either as a general package or a specialized package in those online shops. You’ll need a lot of resistors. Purchase at least one 1602A LCD Display with I2C module soldered.
Most of these components are easily available now all over the internet in most countries. Avoid purchasing “Sensor Modules Kit”, they cost a lot and include things which you’ll rarely need. You can purchase the TM1637 module, DHT22 module etc because they are commonly used in different projects.
