A List of Computer Tools
This is my list of some tools that I most commonly need for computers. This list isn't a complete list of all the tools you may need, just ones I use most.
- Pliers- small, extra-long needlenose (for jumpers, picking up small things, etc.), regular pliers (for loosening cable screws if they are too tight)
- Wrenches-(standard and metric) ignition
- Sockets-(1/4" drive) 5/32 (some
mounting screws inside case), 3/16 (some case screws, jack screws), 7/32 (some keyboards), 1/4 (case screws); standard and deep sockets, ratchet, breaker bar, and spinner handle (a complete socket set is nice to have)
- Screwdrivers- (#2 phillips most used) phillips, torx, flat, allen, tamper proof. (Warning: Magnetic screwdrivers CAN damage data on disks and may damage other electronic components.)
- Dusting brush, and computer vacuum cleaner and/or canned compressed air
- Inspection mirror
- Crimper, d-sub connectors and housings, connector pins, pin pusher, wire (for custom cables)
- 15W soldering iron, stand, solder, desoldering tool/braid, soldering tools (for repairing cables)
- Integrated Circuit (IC) tools
- IC pin straightener
- Chip extractor/ inserter
- Anti-static wrist strap or two (buy a good one, not necessarily a cheap one!)
- Anti-static foam
- PLCC extractor (for PLCC chips)
- Digital Multimeter and adapter clips
- Logic probe
- RS-232 troubleshooter
- Adapters and loopback plugs
- Phone line tester
- AC outlet analyzer
- One or more colors of permanent markers
- Electrical tape
- Connectors and pins (molex, RS-232, and others)
- Heat sink compound, anti-seize compound
- Extra computer cables and brackets, jumpers
- Sheet metal screws, machine screws, mounting hardware