A beginners big ask

[tggzzz]

You might be able to make many circuits with care and calculations, but to truly grasp what is going on you'll want to observe things happening inside.

Oh, but to truly grasp what's going on inside, you don't need any test equipment whatsoever! All you need is to understand the theory of how something works.

I exaggerate, of course. But "practice without theory is blind fumbling, theory without practice is mental masturbation"

The best result is if you can use a scope (or any other test equipment) to consolidate your understanding of what theory says should be happening. And to spot the limitations of theory!

[stevenross]

A lot of talk here about oscilloscopes and unbelievably someone has offered me an oscilloscope to collect on Monday. On top of that someone else is sending me some really cool components in the post as well as a home built 0-30V 1A power supply. I don't know if they wanted me to mention their names in public as they both PM'd me, I shall find out.

Great to read about the conflicting views on the necessity of an oscilloscope, needless to say that I feel a duty to put this opportunity given to me to good use.

Regarding the talk about cheap multimeters, I already have a cheap chinese multimeter and have learnt not to use it for anything potentially dangerous. I'll keep a look out for any bargains of safer makes and models.

Thanks,
Steven

[tggzzz]

Good luck with your foray into electronics.

If you can show:

• you defined a project that, with your level of experience, stretched you
• you completed it
• you have a list of things that, with 20/20 hindsight, you would do better next time
• you understand the theory of how the circuits should work (as opposed to simply blindly copying something)
• you debugged the project
• that you did this for the pure pleasure of experimenting with electronics

then it will be a very strong addition to your CV that you can talk about during an interview

[stevenross]

Good luck with your foray into electronics.

If you can show:

• you defined a project that, with your level of experience, stretched you
• you completed it
• you have a list of things that, with 20/20 hindsight, you would do better next time
• you understand the theory of how the circuits should work (as opposed to simply blindly copying something)
• you debugged the project
• that you did this for the pure pleasure of experimenting with electronics

then it will be a very strong addition to your CV that you can talk about during an interview

I've partially chosen to study electronics engineering to increase my job options so your advise will come in handy.

Thanks,
Steven

[Galenbo]

Out of interest, what motorcycle did you buy?

You really want the complete list? :-) Best one was Yamaha YZ250

[22swg]

You don't really need a scope to get started, a MM and some good basic tools , and good environment to work in , have you tried contacting local IT / electronic manufacturers / service providers, My old office had lots vintage test equipment being replaced regularly .