Electronics
Table of contents
Articles
Software
- KiCad - is a free and open source PCB CAD program that has all the features any hobbyist would need plus more
- EasyEDA - is a free, but proprietary, web-based PCB CAD suite that has lots of features and integrates well with their creator, JLCPCB, very well.
- EAGLE - a commercial PCB CAD program offered by Autodesk. It is possible to get for free as a student or hobbyist, but autodesk makes it hard to find
PCB Fabricators
- JLCPCB - Extremely cheap prototypes PCBs. Shipping takes longer and costs more since it’s in China.
- OSH Park - High quality PCBs made in the US. Well respected among hobbyists and professionals alike.
Parts Suppliers
- DigiKey - Reputable US based parts supplier. Ships quickly.
- Mouser - About on par with DigiKey. Down to personal preference at that point.
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LCSC - Cheap parts, and integrates well with JLCPCB and EasyEDA. The part stock is comprised of many cheap chinese versions of normal parts. Not recomended since shipping costs make up for the cost savings you get.
- PEI Genesis - Has a useful database for finding connectors and compatibility
Books
- Practical Electronics for Inventors by Paul Scherz and Simon Monk - A good reference for hobbyists on many different aspects of electrical engineering.
- The Art of Electronics by Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill - The third edition of the most popular electronics book. Along with Practical Electronics for Inventors, it is a necessary reference on electronics design.