Learning Practical Electronics

[WarrenG]

It's time I became more handy.

Is anyone here skilled in electronics?

Ideally, I'd like to build my skills to the point of being able to build simple but useful items, and repair more complex things like radios.

Is this something that can be easily learned at home through books and sites, or should I take a course? I know how to solder, but even the basics of the theory have escaped my brain since I did electronics at school 15 years ago or so.

[CoolBee]

My brother used to get some regular magazine called Practical Electronics which gave you circuit diagrams and instructions and a Radio Shack kit list.
Maybe google it?

Here, try this: EPEMag Online

[desertrat]

I took apart old radios when I was a kid , thoes had vacuum tubes in them. Todays stuff uses what they call serfice mount tec. its i.c.s , restors, caps, ect with real short leads mounted right on the board. There usted to be Heath kits , you could get a radio , t.v. , c.b. radio , s.w. reciver etc. put it togher your self . Thats all gone. desert rat

[ragtag]

You might want to check out the Arduino. It's basically a tiny computer on a chip, that can be used to control all kinds of things. It's made for homebrew electronics, and you can get sensors for it, displays, servos etc. Great for hobbyist electronics.

I saw one guy that made a g-force meter, using an Arduino and a Wii controller, connected to it via USB, plus a small display.

I've been kind of wanting to get into it a bit myself, as I have some ideas for small projects I would like to try out...but I've been too busy with other projects, so it hasn't been a big priority.

Oh...and check out MakeZine too while you're at it. Lot's of cool homebrew projects there.

[desertrat]

I think Radio Shack still sells parts and books . I think you can still get a few kits and science labs . Component Parts, Switches, Knobs & Transformers | RadioShack.com There is more info on the net , I will look if asked. desert rat