Going straight to the point... I'm getting more serious with electronics and have decided to get some equipment to start building up my home lab. I've seen Dave's videos on the subject and have a general idea of what I need to get. However, since money is at a premium I would like to get some opinions from more seasoned people as to what exactly would be the best choices/options to go with first.
Apart from some misc. tools I have (screwdriver sets, pliers, etc.) and some random electronics parts/items I have lying around, the only bit of test equipment I actually have is an Agilent U1241B DMM, which was a gift. I've also already decided on a Hakko FX888 soldering station. The plan I'm considering now is getting a 2nd DMM, a power supply kit (so I can build and learn), a breadboard and parts kits. The budget I want to stick with is between 500-800$.
So what I'm concerned about is making the right choices given the budget. Some of the questions I'm trying to get answered are:
- Should I get a 300-400$ DMM for my second one (like an Agilent U1272B, or a Fluke 87-V), or should I just settle for something less expensive and use the extra money for something else? (I would like to stick with Agilent or Fluke if possible)
- Should I consider an LCR meter?
- Should I consider an oscilliscope?
- Whats the best place(s) to get the Altronics kits Dave mentioned in his video, in Europe? Any other alternatives I should consider?
- Any suggestions for parts kits?
- Anything else I'm not aware of...?
For the time being, as a beginner, I want to learn about power supplies as a start. As I learn more I'll move into more complex subjects. So right now I'm just looking to get some of the more important/critical gear I will probably need as I progress.
Thanks in advance!