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Where To Start In DIY Electronics?
pyrosine writes "I've been thinking about this for a while and have no idea where to start. I have little or no previous experience in electronics — just what is covered in GCSE physics (wiring a plug and resistors — not much, I know). The majority of my interest lies in the wireless communication side of the field — i.e. ham radios and CB — but I am also interested in how many things work, one example being speakers, simply to better understand it. I would preferably like to start with some form of practical guide rather than learning the theory first, but where I would find such a walkthrough eludes me."
This is not a joke. It is insightful advise and it doesn't matter how many times you are told before you start, you will still learn this lesson the hard way.
There is a reason soldering iron handles are bright yellow. It will still not stop you from picking it up by the hot bit at least once...
wot no sig
Something from the 70's - 80's. shouldn't be more than a couple bucks a piece at garage sales. Old enough to be discrete components, as opposed to a radio-on-chip sort of deal. Get an ARRL handbook from the 70's. Get a soldering iron.
If you still can't get your head around something, try asking for help at dutchforce electronics forums
You have to stick to it, and sooner or later it all makes sense. :-)
If you have a local amateur radio club, they might be helpful. (they might just be a bunch of grumpy old men too, it depends on the chapter...)
Sent from my PDP-11
..oh, wait...
Get yourself an Allied Radio kit... oh wait...
Get your self a copy of Popular Electronics... oh wait...
Get yourself a copy of Electronic Hobbyist... oh wait...
Forget it, just go buy a new chinese made mp3 player!
Your thin skin doesn't make me a troll