This Is My Go-To Repair Kit for Fixing My Tech Hardware

Oct 25, 2024

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If you're someone who frequently works on troubleshooting and repairing tech hardware, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here's a breakdown of my go-to repair kit for fixing hardware, from which you can take inspiration when building your own.

A reliable screwdriver set is non-negotiable. Tech devices use a variety of screws, such as Phillips, flathead, and Torx. I recommend getting precision screwdriver sets with prying tools, as you will inevitably need to pry things open when dealing with tech. On top of those, getting a set with a flexible bit extender, SIM tray pin, and a magnetizer/demagnetizer tool would also be a plus.

If you have the money for quality screwdriver sets, get precision screwdriver sets from iFixit or Wiha. You can also get a cheap screwdriver set like what I got here:

Yes, the bits are probably made of mild steel, but I never had a problem with them in over two years of use. As long as you use them only for tech and other low-torque applications, you should be good.

A multi-tool is an essential part of any repair kit. This handy tool combines several functions into one compact unit, making it perfect for quick fixes or when working in a pinch. Most multi-tools feature pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, and small knives—giving you the flexibility to handle various tasks.

For tech repairs, the Leatherman Wave or Gerber Multi-Plier are popular options because of their durability and range of functions. I like a multi-tool for my personal kit because it's something I carry daily and use more often. However, I would still recommend keeping a good set of pliers, side cutters, and scissors unless you prefer using a multi-tool like me.

When diagnosing hardware, a multimeter or multitester becomes indispensable. It measures voltage, current, and resistance, helping you test everything from faulty power supplies to short circuits on motherboards. Get yourself a digital auto-ranging multimeter with RMS and continuity features. These features can help beginners learn how to use a multimeter or save time for more experienced technicians.

Again, you don't have to get an expensive multimeter. A 20-40 USD Neoteck multimeter should be accurate enough to tell if a device/component isn't providing standard voltages used in common electronics (e.g., 3.3VDC, 5VDC, 12VDC). If you do have the budget, getting trusted name-brand multimeters from Klein Tools and Fluke would always be ideal.

A USB Power Meter is another useful diagnostic tool to pair with a multimeter. Sometimes, the problem lies in a USB port or a power adapter. A USB power meter is a specialized tool that helps you test the functionality of USB ports and adapters. It measures the current and voltage supplied, crucial for troubleshooting phone, tablet, or laptop charging issues. It's a simple yet effective way to determine whether your device is receiving the correct amount of power.

For more advanced repairs, especially when dealing with components that require specific voltage settings, a variable power supply is incredibly useful. It allows you to apply power at adjustable levels, letting you safely test and power up components without using their built-in power sources.

Although you can certainly use power adapters and batteries to power and test electronics, these give you no flexibility in terms of adjusting voltage and current. So, if you plan on repairing or making your own tech as something you'll be doing long term, a variable power supply is essential.

A 30V 5A variable power supply should be enough for most applications. A few extra things I would look for in a bench power supply are a USB port to power USB devices, overcurrent protection, and a short-finding or "short killer" feature.

In combination with your power supply's short-finding feature, a rosin atomizing pen is a cheap and nifty way to find ground shorts on circuit boards when schematics aren't available. Technicians today use thermal imagers to detect possible shorts by looking at hot spots on circuit boards. However, thermal cameras (although much cheaper today) can be cost-prohibitive, especially for people only interested in doing occasional repairs.

A rosin atomizing pen coats a certain section of a circuit board (the part where ground short is suspected) with rosin. When the circuit is powered, the shorted components should build enough heat to melt the rosin, thus detecting the short.

After diagnosing the problem, you may have to replace parts or components in your electronics. A soldering iron or station is critical for repairing circuit boards, replacing components, or reattaching broken connectors.

Look for a soldering station with adjustable temperature controls, as different projects require different heat levels. Some notable brands to look for a good soldering station are Hakko and Weller. If you need something smaller and can be powered by a USB-C power bank, the Pinecil and TS80 are also popular alternatives.

Good lighting is essential when working inside tight or dark spaces, like a computer case. A headlamp frees up your hands while giving you direct light to where you need it. This beats holding a flashlight in your mouth or asking for some extra hands to hold the light for you. Ideally, you should have a flood/work light to light the immediate environment and a headlamp to light what you're actually working on. But if you can only get one (or carry one), get a headlamp.

Look for a lightweight headlamp with high CRI (Color Rendering Index) lights. I recommend the Nitecore NU33 for its high CRI, high-lumen LEDs, long battery life, and lightweight design.

Whether it's trimming down screws or sanding out imperfections on a 3D-printed case, a rotary tool (like the Dremel) is your best friend. It's also perfect for modifying hardware enclosures or even cutting through damaged screws. Look for attachments that match the specific job you're tackling to get the best results.

A 3D printer might seem like an odd choice for this list, but I can't count how many times I've needed custom brackets, enclosures, or replacement parts that are no longer available. A 3D printer allows you to fabricate these parts on demand.

So, if you're already considering buying a 3D printer, this is another reason you should definitely get one. There are several factors to consider before buying a 3D printer, but it doesn't always have to be big, expensive, or complicated.

3D printers like Bambu Lab's A1 Mini are small, cost around 280 USD without the AMS (Automatic Material System), and take only 20 minutes to set up. If you need something that can print bigger objects with abrasive filaments like carbon fiber, you can also get a Creality K1C or a Creality K1 Max if you have the budget.

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