A Starter Toolkit for Physical Computing
Here's a list of tools that are useful for physical computing work. Some of these are things you'll use so often, they're worth having even if you're just taking an introductory class. Others are not recommended unless you're setting up a home shop, or planning to continue with physical computing on your own. These are our recommended parts, which we usually buy through Jameco. Feel free to replace with your own as you see fit. These item numbers are provides as a reference, so you can look them up on Jameco and get a useful range for each tool.
Useful tools for Intro users
| Item | Vendor | Part No. | Cost | Notes |
|---|
| miniature Philips/flathead screwdriver | Jameco | 127271 | $1.49 | This one is handy, with tips on both ends. |
| 5" Diagonal Wire Cutter | Jameco | 161411 | $6.95 | |
| Wire stripper, 22-30 AWG | Jameco | 159290 | $8.95 | |
| Flat needlenose pliers | Jameco | 35473 | $4.95 | |
| Drillbits, 7/64", 1/8", 5/16", 1/4" | -- | -- | -- | These sizes are the ones you'll need most often for wood, plastic, and thin metal. Most hardware stores will carry them for less than a dollar each. |
Optional tools, useful for more dedicated users
| Item | Vendor | Part No. | Cost | Notes |
|---|
| IC Extractor | Jameco | 16766 | $3.95 | |
| Alligator Leads | Jameco | 10444 | $3.29 | |
| Digital Multimeter | Jameco | 136590 | $69.95 | This is a top-of-the-line meter, but much cheaper digital multimeters will do fine for most applications. |
| Third Hand Soldering Aid | Jameco | 26690 | $5.95 | You need something like this when soldering, because you have three things to hold. |
| Wire | | | | 22AWG solid core hookup wire is best for breadboards. I keep a roll of black, red, and one or two other colors on hand. |
| 21AWG lead-free solder | Digikey | KE1351-ND | $15.90 | Get the lead-free solder, even though it's more expensive; it's better for your lungs. This size roll can last an individual years. |
| xacto kit | Jameco | 72768 | $9.95 | |
| glue gun | Jameco | 72696 | $9.95 | |
| Toolbox | K-Mart, etc. | | | You don’t need a big heavy metal toolbox. Fishing tackle boxes because the tiny compartments work great for resistors and things but a Tupperware container or shoe box would work fine |
Below is a list of commonly used parts, many of which are in the computer store intro kits. If you get the kit, you'll alread have these, but if you're looking in the future, here are some alternative sources.
Arduino Microcontroller module
You can buy this at Sparkfun.com or the NYU Computer store. Ask for it at the counter.
Prototyping board:
This is what you assemble your circuits on. There are two boards that are popular in the class, one from Jameco and one from Radio Shack. Personally, I prefer the Jameco version, because I like having two rows of bus holes. The NYU computer store sells the Jameco boards as well. I recommend these boards over the Radio Shack boards, but either will do.
- Radio Shack 6" board, part no. 276-174 (1 bus row per side)
- Jameco 6" board, part no. 20722 (2 bus rows per side)
Project Box (to fit prototyping board)
This is a box to protect your project. It fits your prototyping board, and you knock holes in it for your cables to come out of. There are many options, best to pick one that your breadboard fits inside of comfortably, with room for electronic components to stick out. Tupperware with holes in it works quite well (called a "milmoe box" at ITP, in honor or Andrew Milmoe, who perfected the technique following a horrible sandwich disaster).
- Radio Shack RSU11907656
- Multiple Jameco options such as Jameco 18905
- Staples pencil boxes
DC power supply (5-9V DC and 700-1500mA)
*Radio Shack 273-1758 (6V 800mA)
- Radio Shack 273-1667 (3-12V, 800mA)
- Multiple Jameco options such as:
- Jameco 170245 (12V, 1000mA) Available at the NYU computer store.
5V DC Voltage Regulator (7805 regulator)
You can get this at Radio Shack, or Jameco (51262). There are also some available for use in the lab.
Power supply connector
This is a connector to connect your power supply to your breadboard. You should get the one that mates with whatever power supply you buy. You won't need it for the Arduino alone.
- Radio Shack Cat. no. 910-0908 mates with 2.1mm x 5.5mm female connectors
- Jameco 159610 mates with 2.1mm x 5.5mm female connectors. Available at the NYU Computer store
Servomotor
The Hobbico cs-61 servomotor is available at the NYU computer store.
Cable Ties available in the lab
1K Ohm Resistors, 1/4 watt available in the lab
10K Ohm Resistors, 1/4 watt available in the lab
220 Ohm Resistors, 1/4 watt available in the lab
22K Ohm resistors, 1/4 watt available in the lab
LED's available in the lab
Switch find a store-bought one, or better yet, make your own
Variable resistor find a store-bought one. The NYU computer store carries Flex sensors, which are good fun, and other sensors as well.
USB cable: available at the NYU Computer store. You'll need one of these for both programming and later, for communication.
Tools:
*miniature Philips/flathead screwdriver, Jameco 127271
- Diagonal Wire Cutter, Jameco 161411
- Wire stripper, 22-30 AWG, Jameco 159290
- Flat needlenose pliers, Jameco 35473
- Drillbits. These sizes are the ones you'll need most often for wood, plastic, and thin metal. Most hardware stores will carry them for less than a dollar each.
