How to power my little projects, kits...

[MarkF]

I have several HP 6216A Variable DC Power Supplies.  Small (3"Hx5"Wx7"D) with current limiting and multiple units can be put in parallel or series. Not a lot of current but enough for most small projects.  Good starter.  I would NOT pay much more than $60 with shipping included.  I have found them cheaper.

[Mr. Scram]

We've had the discussion about the AN8008 or other cheap multimeters elsewhere on the forums many times. I feel that a beginner should have more leeway than a more advanced tinkerer, simply because he doesn't quite know how to stay out of trouble yet. You can't ask a young player to stay away from danger if he doesn't quite know how.

A good example was also given: a car battery typically is only 12 volt, but can push a massive amounts of amps. A novice might equate the low voltage to low current and absolutely melt his multimeter or leads in a violent fashion.

[xani]

We've had the discussion about the AN8008 or other cheap multimeters elsewhere on the forums many times. I feel that a beginner should have more leeway than a more advanced tinkerer, simply because he doesn't quite know how to stay out of trouble yet. You can't ask a young player to stay away from danger if he doesn't quite know how.

A good example was also given: a car battery typically is only 12 volt, but can push a massive amounts of amps. A novice might equate the low voltage to low current and absolutely melt his multimeter or leads in a violent fashion.

AN8008 does have fuse on 10A range, (which seems to be rare with cheap meters) so connecting it to 12V wont make meter melt.

[cdev]

This one is quite nice to use when its current is enough because its a small linear supply with a big heat sink that's completely silent. No fan. 

I have several HP 6216A Variable DC Power Supplies.  Small (3"Hx5"Wx7"D) with current limiting and multiple units can be put in parallel or series. Not a lot of current but enough for most small projects.  Good starter.  I would NOT pay much more than $60 with shipping included.  I have found them cheaper.

[cepwin]

Thank you all for your replies.   What I ended up doing is getting an inexpensive bench power supply that seems to work pretty well for what I'm trying to do.  Thanks again!