by Karlsweldt » Thu Oct 28, 2004 5:58 am
Lots of good suggestions for "software" tools, but no "hardware" tools.
If I may add, the "good" computer toolbox should not be without a few different types of Hemostats, for picking up those dropped parts in tight places, or removing/installing the jumper caps on pinset headers. Also a decent-sized pair of end-nipper pliers, to cut protruding wire ends from circuit boards. Work well at squeezing the "arms" on plastic standoffs for removal. Crutchfield's catalog is one source.. there are many others, including medical supply houses, for the Hemostats. The pliers and other tools are available at most hardware stores. A pair of "chip poppers" similar to the ones made for removing the older '486' CPUs will be of assistance in removing any CPU from its socket, if you have no fingernails to get under the chip. Gently, of course!