For those looking to build a System Red, you probably have soldering capability and tools already. But if you don't have an extensive set of tools already, here are a few that I think are invaluable...
Magnifying lamp (example)
The System Red has 18 surface-mount components (one GPS module on the controller board, plus 8 and 9 variable-gain opamps on the H-field and E-field amplifiers). None are of the "truly tiny" variety, but if you have less than 20/10 vision, a decent magnifying lamp will help a LOT.
Even if you have tools like inspection microscopes/cameras, for everyday rapid soldering, it's hard to beat a magnifying lamp.
Tweezers
Frequently overlooked, components are always getting smaller, and a good pair of fine tweezers are essential.
Panavise
There are several ways to hold circuit boards while soldering them, including the friction "hope it doesn't move" method. For me, the Panavise has been very helpful.
A decent temperature-controlled soldering station
For a long time, I did my soldering with cheap models I could find at Radio Shack, and while simple pencil irons will do a passable job, it's hard to beat quick-heating, variable-temperature, exchangeable-tip soldering stations--especially when you have to solder everything from tiny surface-mount components to the mounting lugs on connectors. It still doesn't have to cost a lot - Weller is the "name brand" everyone knows, but there are others that will do an excellent job and cost less.
The above link is to the model I have, which I originally bought through All Electronics at a significant discount. It's done a great job for me. AE still sells replacement tips.
Multimeter
The venerable multimeter is a soldering bench must-have, useful for everything from quickly identifying which resistors are which, to checking for soldering shorts and gaps, etc. It doesn't have to be expensive (mine is an old Radio Shack special) to be helpful.
A few other tools I've found helpful:
- Flush-cutters for trimming leads after soldering
- Thin-cut silver bearing solder
- Heat-resistant Kapton tape was also helpful in holding components on the board while I flipped and soldered (McMaster-Carr).
- Desoldering wick/solder sucker
- Parts bins for organizing a project
ADDING: LCR meter, e.g. DE-5000:
(Can be had for far less through reputable Japanese sellers on Ebay)
What other tools have you found useful?
