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Lesson Three
Tools of the Trade |  |
In order to build your robots properly, you need to have the right tools. You may have most of these tools already at home. Some of these tools you can buy for a very low price if you know where to look and how to shop. Below is a list of some of the tools you'll need:
Common
- Tool box
- Assorted screw drivers
- Hobby, hand, electric saws
- Miter box
- Assorted wrenches
- Tape measure
- Square/straight edge
- Assorted files
- Drill and many bits
- Vise
- Safety goggles
Specialty tools
- Dremel (or equivalent)
- Soldering station (Weller)
- Rosin core solder (.035)
- Heat sink
- Desoldering tool
- Solder vice
- Breadboard testers
- Multitude of hardware (nuts, bolts, washers)
- Electronic components (resistors, capacitators, transistors, diodes, LED's, integrated circuits, wire and heat wrap, circuit boards, sockets Radio Shack)
Once you have your tools lined up, all you need is a separate place to do your work with proper ventilation and lighting. This place can be anywhere you choose as long as you keep your robot supplies separate from other day-to-day items.
What have you learned so far?
Question: All these materials, parts, and tools, I don't have a million dollars to spend. Where can I go to get the cheap stuff?
Answer: Good question. A million dollar robot shouldn't cost a million dollars to make. Next, we'll learn where to shop for all you need.
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If you have a questions about any of the lessons, feel free to ask.