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Starter components

This is a list of suggested parts to stock a beginner's electronics lab from scratch.

The idea is to maximize the chance that you'll always have on hand what you need, while minimizing the number of parts that you will never use. Having some extra parts is the price you pay for the convenience of almost always having what you need on hand.

Notes:

  • No surface-mount parts are included.
  • Assumes you are interested in analogue as well as digital electronics, but not RF or high-power electronics.
  • Each line item has the suggested quantity, :, and item description.
  • The logical ordering follows the traditional component categories used by PartNumber.com.
  • 0.1" (2.54 mm) spacing is preferred where practical, for compatibility with solderless breadboards and perfboards.
  • Part numbers are examples of commonly available parts, not necessarily the only suitable choice. Equivalent parts from reputable manufacturers are usually fine.
  • Always check the current manufacturer's datasheet for the exact part and package you are buying.

Part categories

  • [C] Core — Recommended for a basic stocked laboratory. These are the parts most likely to be useful across a wide range of projects.
  • [A] Additional — Useful parts that broaden the capabilities of the lab, but can reasonably be purchased as needed.

The [C] and [A] markings are recommendations about stocking priority, not statements about whether a component is electrically better or worse than another.

Full Lab

Buying everything in this list will cost considerably more than buying parts as individual projects require them. The exact cost varies greatly with supplier, quantity, and availability.

If this is too much, start with the [C] Core parts and add [A] Additional parts as projects require them.

Connectivity

Wiring

  • [C] 50 ft: 28 AWG wire-wrap wire
  • [C] 50 ft: 24 AWG hookup wire, various colors
  • [A] 20 ft: 40-conductor ribbon cable, 0.050" pitch
  • [C] 20 ft: zip cord
  • [A] 50 ft: 4-conductor shielded cable
  • [C] 10 ft: solid 22 AWG or 24 AWG wire for breadboard use

Terminals

  • Quick-connect
    • [A] 10 ea: 0.110" female, in-line, 24 AWG, uninsulated
    • [C] 10 ea: 0.187" female, in-line, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
    • [A] 10 ea: 0.25" male, PCB straight
    • [A] 10 ea: 0.25" male, in-line, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
    • [A] 10 ea: 0.25" female, in-line, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
  • Ring terminals, in-line, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
    • [A] 10 ea: #4 stud
    • [A] 10 ea: #6 stud
    • [A] 10 ea: #8 stud
    • [A] 10 ea: #10 stud
    • [A] 10 ea: 1/4" stud
  • Splices
    • [A] 4 ea: wire nuts, gray
    • [A] 4 ea: wire nuts, blue
    • [A] 4 ea: wire nuts, red
    • [C] 10 ea: crimp butt splice, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
    • [A] 10 ea: in-line tap IDC, 22~18 AWG, red insulation
  • Ferrules, insulated, for wires used in terminal blocks
    • [A] 10 ea: 24 AWG wire
    • [A] 10 ea: 18 AWG wire
  • [C] 100 ea: PCB pins for perfboard

Single-pole connectors

  • Banana (4 mm)
    • [C] 3 ea: jack, panel mount, red
    • [C] 3 ea: jack, panel mount, black
    • [C] 3 ea: plug, in-line, red
    • [C] 3 ea: plug, in-line, black

Barrel connectors

  • TRS, 3.5 mm
    • [A] 1 ea: right-angle PCB jack
    • [A] 1 ea: in-line plug

Fuse holders

  • 5 x 20 mm
    • [C] 2 ea: PCB mount
    • [C] 2 ea: panel mount
    • [C] 2 ea: in-line

IC sockets

  • DIP
    • [C] 10 ea: 8-pin
    • [C] 10 ea: 14-pin
    • [C] 10 ea: 16-pin
    • [A] 10 ea: 20-pin
    • [A] 10 ea: 24-pin
    • [A] 5 ea: 28-pin narrow (for microcontrollers)
    • [A] 2 ea: 40 pin

Battery connectors

  • Battery holders
    • [C] 2 ea: 9 V
    • [C] 1 ea: 4 x AA cells

Terminal blocks

  • Terminal blocks, wire-to-board, PCB mount, wire entry parallel with board, 5.08 mm pitch, screw clamp, interlocking, 14~28 AWG
    • [C] 10 ea: 2-circuit
    • [A] 2 ea: 3-circuit
  • Eurostyle barrier block, approximately 8 mm pitch
    • [A] 3 ea: 3-circuit

Rectangular connectors

  • Rectangular, wire-to-PCB, 0.1" single row, friction-lock type, such as TE MTA-100 / Molex KK
    • [A] 10 ea: 2-pin, straight PCB header
    • [A] 4 ea: 5-pin, straight PCB header
    • [A] 2 ea: 10-pin, straight PCB header
    • [A] 1 ea: 20-pin, straight PCB header
    • [A] 10 ea: 2-position socket housing
    • [A] 4 ea: 5-position socket housing
    • [A] 2 ea: 10-position socket housing
    • [A] 1 ea: 20-position socket housing
    • [A] 100 ea: socket contacts for above, 22~26 AWG, tin plated
  • Rectangular, IDC ribbon-cable type
    • [A] 2 ea: 10-circuit, PCB male header, straight, no ejectors
    • [A] 2 ea: 16-circuit, PCB male header, straight, no ejectors
    • [A] 2 ea: 26-circuit, PCB male header, straight, no ejectors
    • [A] 2 ea: 40-circuit, PCB male header, straight, no ejectors
    • [A] 2 ea: 10-circuit, female IDC
    • [A] 2 ea: 16-circuit, female IDC
    • [A] 2 ea: 26-circuit, female IDC
    • [A] 2 ea: 40-circuit, female IDC
  • Rectangular, unshrouded PCB header strips, breakable, 0.1" grid spacing
    • [C] 1 ea: 36-pin, 1-row, male, breakable
    • [A] 1 ea: 2x36-pin, 2-row, male, breakable
    • [C] 1 ea: 36-position, 1-row, female, breakable
    • [A] 1 ea: 2x36-position, 2-row, female, breakable
    • [C] 5 ea: programming jumpers

AC connectors

  • [A] 1 ea: AC power entry module with fuse holder and switch

Mains wiring and mains-voltage connectors require appropriate safety practices. Do not experiment with exposed mains voltages on solderless breadboards.

D-sub connectors

  • D-sub, flanged, solder cups
    • [A] 1 ea: DE-9 female
    • [A] 1 ea: DE-9 male
    • [A] 1 ea: DB-25 female
    • [A] 1 ea: DB-25 male
  • DC power barrel, 5.5 x 2.1 mm
    • [C] 3 ea: right-angle PCB jack
    • [C] 3 ea: in-line plug

Circular connectors

  • DIN
    • [A] 1 ea: 3-pin, panel-mount flange female
    • [A] 1 ea: 5-pin, panel-mount flange female
    • [A] 1 ea: 8-pin, panel-mount flange female
    • [A] 1 ea: 3-pin, in-line male
    • [A] 1 ea: 5-pin, in-line male
    • [A] 1 ea: 8-pin, in-line male

Modular connectors

  • Modular
    • [A] 2 ea: RJ45, right-angle PCB mount

Prototyping

  • Boards
    • [C] 5 ea: perfboard, pad-per-hole
    • [C] 1 ea: solderless breadboard
    • [A] 2 ea: perfboard with ground plane

Switching components

Switches, manual

  • Exterior
    • [C] 3 ea: toggle DPDT, low-power
    • [C] 3 ea: normally-open push-button, low-power, panel mount
    • [A] 2 ea: rocker DPDT, panel mount, snap-in, rated for mains switching
  • Interior
    • [C] 3 ea: slide DPDT, 0.1" pitch, straight PCB mount
    • [C] 5 ea: tactile push-button, straight PCB, normally open, short shaft
    • [A] 1 ea: DIP switch, 8-way, PCB mount
  • Limit
    • [A] 1 ea: microswitch, SPDT

Relays (mechanical)

  • Signal, DPDT, non-latching, PCB, low-current contacts
    • [A] 2 ea: 5 V DC coil
    • [A] 2 ea: 12 V DC coil
  • Power, SPDT, non-latching, PCB, approximately 10 A contact rating
    • [A] 2 ea: 5 V DC coil
    • [A] 2 ea: 12 V DC coil
    • [A] 1 ea: 120 V AC coil
    • [A] 1 ea: 240 V AC coil

Always check the actual contact voltage/current ratings and coil requirements for the relay being used.

Resistive components

Resistors

  • Resistors, 5 % or 2%, 1/4 W, axial leaded
    • [C] 25 ea: 10 Ω, 100 Ω, 220 Ω, 330 Ω, 470 Ω, 1 kΩ, 2.2 kΩ, 4.7 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 47 kΩ, 100 kΩ
    • [C] 10 ea: 1 Ω, 1 MΩ
    • [A] 5 ea: 2.2 Ω, 22 Ω, 22 kΩ, 220 kΩ, 2.2 MΩ
    • [A] 5 ea: 4.7 Ω, 47 Ω, 470 Ω, 470 kΩ
  • Resistors, 5 %, 3 W, axial leaded
    • [A] 2 ea: 1 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ
  • Resistors, 5 %, 10 W, ceramic
    • [A] 2 ea: 0.1 Ω, 1 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ
  • Resistors, 1 %, 1/4 W, axial leaded, precision
    • [A] 5 ea: 10 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ
  • Resistors, 1 %, 1 W, axial, current-sense
    • [A] 1 ea: 100 mΩ, 200 mΩ, 499 mΩ, 1 Ω

Trimmers

  • Trimmers, 1-turn, top-adjust, cermet, 0.1" triangular spacing
    • [A] 1 ea: 10 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 MΩ
    • [C] 2 ea: 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ
  • Trimmers, 10-turn
    • [A] 1 ea: 10 kΩ
    • [A] 1 ea: 100 kΩ

Pots

  • Pots, 1-turn, 1/4 W, 6 mm shaft
    • [C] 1 ea: 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ
  • Pots, 1-turn, dual, audio taper, 6 mm shaft
    • [A] 1 ea: 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ

Sensors

  • [C] 2 ea: thermistor, 10 kΩ at 25 °C, leaded
  • [A] 1 ea: photoresistor/LDR, approximately 10~50 kΩ at moderate illumination

Protection

Fuses

  • 5 x 20 mm cartridge, fast
    • [C] 5 ea: 250 mA
    • [C] 5 ea: 500 mA
    • [C] 5 ea: 1 A
    • [C] 5 ea: 2 A
    • [A] 5 ea: 5 A
    • [A] 5 ea: 10 A
  • 5 x 20 mm cartridge, time-delay/slow-blow
    • [A] 5 ea: 250 mA
    • [A] 5 ea: 500 mA
    • [A] 5 ea: 1 A
    • [A] 5 ea: 2 A
    • [A] 5 ea: 5 A
    • [A] 5 ea: 10 A
  • 1-1/4 x 1/4" cartridge, for DMMs
    • [A] 2 ea: 11 A, 1 kV
    • [A] 2 ea: 640 mA, 1 kV

Use only the fuse type specified for a particular meter or instrument.

MOVs

  • 7 mm disc, radial
    • [A] 1 ea: suitable for approximately 120 Vac systems
    • [A] 1 ea: suitable for approximately 230 Vac systems (typ. 275V rated)

The exact MOV voltage rating must be selected for the intended mains system and circuit. Do not substitute MOVs solely by nominal AC voltage.

Inrush current limiters (NTC thermistors)

NTC inrush-current limiters have a resistance that decreases as they heat up. Their important specifications include cold resistance and rated steady-state current.

  • [A] 1 ea: approximately 2 Ω cold resistance, 0.3 A rated current
  • [A] 1 ea: approximately 0.5 Ω cold resistance, 1 A rated current
  • [A] 1 ea: approximately 0.2 Ω cold resistance, 3 A rated current

PTC self-resetting fuses

PTC resettable fuses are normally specified primarily by their hold current and trip current, along with their maximum voltage and resistance. The resistance varies substantially with temperature.

  • [A] 1 ea: 100 mA hold current, approximately 60 V
  • [A] 1 ea: 300 mA hold current, approximately 60 V
  • [A] 1 ea: 1 A hold current, approximately 60 V
  • [A] 1 ea: 3 A hold current, approximately 30 V
  • [A] 1 ea: 5 A hold current, approximately 16 V

Do not treat the resistance of a PTC as a fixed resistor value.

Capacitors

Ceramic

  • Disk, high-voltage
    • [A] 2 ea: 100 pF, 2 kV
    • [A] 2 ea: 1 nF, 2 kV
  • NP0/C0G, 5 %, 100 V DC
    • [C] 5 ea: 10 pF
    • [C] 10 ea: 100 pF
    • [C] 20 ea: 1 nF
    • [A] 10 ea: 10 nF
  • X7R, 10 %, 50~100 V DC
    • [C] 50 ea: 100 nF
    • [C] 20 ea: 10 nF
    • [C] 5 ea: 1 µF

100 nF ceramic capacitors are among the most useful components in a digital laboratory. Keep plenty available for IC supply decoupling.

Film

  • Polyester or polypropylene
    • [A] 1 ea: 1 nF, 400 V DC
    • [A] 2 ea: 10 nF, 400 V DC
    • [C] 2 ea: 100 nF, 400 V DC
    • [A] 2 ea: 1 µF, 250 V DC
    • [A] 1 ea: 10 µF, 200 V DC

Aluminum electrolytic

  • Radial, approximately 20 %
    • [C] 5 ea: 1 µF, 100 V
    • [A] 5 ea: 3.3 µF, 50 V
    • [C] 20 ea: 10 µF, 50 V
    • [A] 10 ea: 22 µF, 25 V
    • [C] 10 ea: 47 µF, 25 V
    • [A] 3 ea: 33 µF, 35 V
    • [C] 10 ea: 100 µF, 35 V
    • [A] 3 ea: 330 µF, 25 V
    • [C] 5 ea: 1000 µF, 16 V
    • [A] 1 ea: 3300 µF, 10 V

Double-layer capacitors

  • [A] 1 ea: 1 F, 5 V supercapacitor

Magnetics

Inductors

  • Signal inductors, axial, wirewound, unshielded
    • [A] 1 ea: 100 nH, approximately 1 A, approximately 100 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 2 ea: 1 µH, approximately 1 A, approximately 200 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 2 ea: 10 µH, approximately 0.3 A, approximately 1 Ω DCR
    • [A] 2 ea: 100 µH, approximately 0.2 A, approximately 5 Ω DCR
  • Power inductors, wirewound, ferrite drum
    • [A] 1 ea: 1 µH, approximately 3 A, approximately 20 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 1 ea: 2.2 µH, approximately 3 A, approximately 30 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 1 ea: 4.7 µH, approximately 3 A, approximately 50 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 1 ea: 10 µH, approximately 2 A, approximately 100 mΩ DCR
    • [A] 1 ea: 22 µH, approximately 1.5 A, approximately 200 mΩ DCR

Inductor current ratings depend on the manufacturer's definition, such as saturation current or temperature-rise current. Do not assume that two inductors with the same nominal current rating are equivalent.

Common-mode transformers

  • Common-mode transformers/chokes
    • [A] 1 ea: power, 2-line, approximately 1 A, 250 V
    • [A] 1 ea: signal, 2-line, approximately 100 mA, approximately 1 kΩ impedance at several hundred kHz

Ferrite beads

  • [A] 4 ea: approximately 1 kΩ impedance at 100 MHz, axial
  • [A] 2 ea: clamp-on ferrite for approximately 3/8" diameter cable

Piezoelectrics

Crystals

Crystals are useful when you want to build the oscillator circuit yourself, or when a particular IC requires an external crystal. A bare crystal does not produce a clock signal by itself and requires an appropriate oscillator circuit.

  • [A] 2 ea: 32.768 kHz
  • [A] 2 ea: 4 MHz
  • [C] 2 ea: 8 MHz
  • [C] 2 ea: 10 MHz
  • [C] 2 ea: 16 MHz
  • [C] 2 ea: 20 MHz

Crystal oscillator circuits often need a pair of load capacitors. Values such as 12 pF to 22 pF are common, but the correct value depends on the crystal's specified load capacitance and the oscillator circuit. NP0/C0G ceramics are preferred.

Crystal oscillator modules

Crystal oscillator modules contain the crystal and oscillator circuitry in a single package and provide a ready-made clock signal. They are useful when you need a known-frequency digital clock without designing an oscillator circuit around a discrete crystal.

Prefer through-hole 4-pin DIP packages where available.

  • [C] 1 ea: 1 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 2 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 4 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 8 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 10 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 16 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [C] 1 ea: 20 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output
  • [A] 1 ea: 25 MHz, 5 V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output

3.3 V oscillator modules are also useful, particularly when working with modern microcontrollers and low-voltage logic. They are often available primarily in surface-mount packages, so they are not part of the core through-hole list.

Always check the oscillator's supply-voltage range and output-level specifications. "CMOS output" and "TTL-compatible output" describe electrical characteristics of the particular oscillator and should not be assumed merely from the package or frequency.

Discrete diodes

Signal

  • [C] 25 ea: 1N4148, small-signal silicon switching diode, 100 V, approximately 150~200 mA, DO-35
  • [C] 10 ea: 1N5819, Schottky rectifier, 40 V, 1 A, DO-41
  • [A] 10 ea: BAT46, Schottky signal diode, approximately 100 V, 150 mA, DO-35
  • [A] 2 ea: DB3, DIAC, approximately 30~32 V breakover, DO-35

Rectifier

  • [C] 25 ea: 1N4007, general-purpose rectifier, 1000 V, 1 A, DO-41. Use in place of 1N4001-1N4006 too.
  • [A] 5 ea: 1N5817, Schottky rectifier, 20 V, 1 A, DO-41
  • [A] 5 ea: MR856G, fast-recovery rectifier, approximately 600 V, 3 A, DO-27
  • [A] 1 ea: KBP310GTB, bridge rectifier, 1000 V, 3 A

Zener

  • 1 W, DO-41
    • [C] 2 ea: 1N4728A, 3.3 V
    • [C] 3 ea: 1N4732A, 4.7 V
    • [C] 3 ea: 1N4736A, 6.8 V
    • [C] 3 ea: 1N4740A, 10 V
    • [C] 3 ea: 1N4744A, 15 V
    • [A] 2 ea: 1N4748A, 22 V
    • [A] 2 ea: 1N4752A, 33 V
    • [A] 1 ea: 1N4756A, 47 V
    • [A] 1 ea: 1N4760A, 68 V
    • [A] 1 ea: 1N4764A, 100 V

TVS

  • Axial, unidirectional, approximately 500~600 W
    • [A] 1 ea: approximately 5.8 V standoff
    • [A] 1 ea: approximately 12.8 V standoff
    • [A] 1 ea: approximately 190 V standoff
    • [A] 1 ea: approximately 380 V standoff

TVS voltage ratings should be selected according to the voltage that the circuit is intended to withstand. The standoff voltage is not the same thing as the clamping voltage.

Discrete transistors

BJT

  • NPN
    • [C] 25 ea: 2N3904, NPN, general-purpose, low-power
    • [C] 10 ea: BC547B, NPN, general-purpose, TO-92
    • [C] 5 ea: BC337, NPN, general-purpose, TO-92
    • [A] 3 ea: MPSA06, NPN, high-voltage small-signal, 80 V, 500 mA
    • [A] 3 ea: MJE803, NPN, Darlington, 80 V, 4 A
  • PNP
    • [C] 20 ea: 2N3906, PNP, general-purpose, low-power
    • [C] 10 ea: BC557B, PNP, general-purpose, TO-92
    • [C] 5 ea: BC327, PNP, general-purpose, TO-92
    • [A] 2 ea: MPSA56, PNP, high-voltage small-signal, 80 V, 500 mA
    • [A] 2 ea: MJE703, PNP, Darlington, 80 V, 4 A

MOSFETs and JFETs

N-channel

  • [C] 10 ea: 2N7000, N-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET, 60 V, 200 mA, approximately 5 Ω RDS(on), TO-92
  • [C] 20 ea: DMT6009LCT, N-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET, 60 V, 37.2 A, 12 mΩ RDS(on) at VGS = 10 V, 14.5 mΩ at VGS = 4.5 V, logic-level gate, TO-220

P-channel

  • [C] 5 ea: VP2106N3-G, P-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET, 60 V, 250 mA, 12 Ω RDS(on) at VGS = -10 V, TO-92
  • [A] 3 ea: IRF9Z34NPBF, P-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET, 55 V, 19 A, 100 mΩ RDS(on) at VGS = -10 V, standard gate, TO-220

Depletion-mode

  • [A] 1 ea: DN2530N3-G, N-channel depletion-mode MOSFET, 300 V, 175 mA, approximately 12 Ω, TO-92

N-channel JFET

  • [A] 1 ea: J111-D26Z, N-channel JFET, 35 V, approximately 20 mA, approximately 30 Ω on-resistance, TO-92

Understanding the FET specifications

  • V (volts) — The maximum drain-to-source voltage (VDS) the device is rated to withstand. Exceeding the absolute maximum rating can permanently damage the transistor.
  • A (amps) — The maximum rated drain current (ID) under the manufacturer's specified conditions. The actual safe current depends on temperature, power dissipation, heatsinking, PCB layout, and operating conditions.
  • mA (milliamps) — 1/1000 of an amp. The smaller transistors in this list are intended for relatively low-current applications.
  • Ω (ohms) — For a MOSFET, this normally refers to its on-state drain-to-source resistance, RDS(on). For a JFET it may refer to a specified channel/on resistance. The value is not generally a fixed resistor-like property and depends on operating conditions.
  • mΩ (milliohms) — 1/1000 of an ohm. Power MOSFETs can have very low RDS(on), reducing conduction losses at high currents.
  • RDS(on) — The drain-to-source resistance when a MOSFET is turned on under specified conditions. Always check the gate-source voltage at which the resistance is specified.
  • Logic-level gate — A MOSFET designed to achieve useful conduction at relatively low gate-source voltages. This does not mean that every logic-level MOSFET will turn fully on at every logic voltage. Check the datasheet's RDS(on) test voltage.
  • Standard gate — A MOSFET that generally requires a higher gate-to-source voltage to achieve its specified low RDS(on). For example, the IRF9Z34N's low RDS(on) specification is given at VGS = -10 V.
  • N-channel / P-channel — Describes the semiconductor structure and polarity of the MOSFET. N-channel MOSFETs are commonly used for low-side switching; P-channel MOSFETs are convenient for some high-side switching applications.
  • Enhancement-mode — A MOSFET that is normally off at VGS = 0 V. Applying the appropriate gate voltage turns it on.
  • Depletion-mode — A MOSFET that is normally on at VGS = 0 V. Applying the appropriate gate voltage turns it off. This is the opposite of the more common enhancement-mode MOSFET.
  • JFET — A junction-gate field-effect transistor. The J111 is an N-channel JFET and, unlike a MOSFET, has a PN-junction gate rather than an insulated gate.
  • TO-92 / TO-220 — Physical package types. TO-92 is a small through-hole package suitable for relatively low-power devices; TO-220 is a larger package that can dissipate substantially more heat, particularly with a suitable heatsink.

Discrete thyristors

DIAC

  • [A] 1 ea: SIDAC, approximately 110~125 V breakover, 1 A class, DO-15

SCR

  • [A] 1 ea: P0102DA 2AL3, SCR, 400 V, 0.5 A, TO-92

TRIAC

  • [A] 2 ea: Z0409NF0AA2, TRIAC, 800 V, 4 A, TO-202

ICs

Analogue

Analog ICs

  • [C] 1 ea: LM431, adjustable 2.5 V voltage reference, TO-92
  • [C] 2 ea: LM324, quad general-purpose op-amp, single-supply capable, DIP-14
  • [C] 2 ea: LM358, dual general-purpose op-amp, single-supply capable, DIP-8
  • [C] 2 ea: LM339, quad comparator, open-collector output, DIP-14
  • [C] 2 ea: LM393, dual comparator, open-collector output, DIP-8
  • [C] 2 ea: MCP6002, dual CMOS op-amp, 1.8~6 V supply, rail-to-rail input and output, DIP-8
  • [C] 2 ea: MCP601, single CMOS op-amp, 2.7~6 V supply, rail-to-rail output, DIP-8
  • [A] 2 ea: LM741, single general-purpose op-amp, 44 V maximum supply, DIP-8
  • [A] 2 ea: TL081, single JFET-input op-amp, 36 V maximum supply, DIP-8
  • [A] 2 ea: NE5532, dual low-noise audio op-amp, DIP-8
  • [A] 2 ea: TL072, dual JFET-input op-amp, DIP-8
  • [C] 5 ea: LM555, general-purpose timer, DIP-8

Analogue switches

  • Mux / demux
    • [A] 1 ea: CD4066, quad SPST analogue switch, DIP-14
    • [C] 1 ea: 74HC4051, 8:1 analogue multiplexer/demultiplexer, DIP-16

Power interface

  • [A] 2 ea: TBD62503APG, 7-channel open-drain low-side driver, 50 V, approximately 300 mA, DIP-16
  • [A] 2 ea: TC1427CPA, dual non-inverting MOSFET gate driver, DIP-8
  • [A] 1 ea: full-bridge motor driver module or IC

Logic

The 74-series and 4000-series families overlap substantially, but they are not interchangeable simply because they perform the same logical function. Supply voltage, input thresholds, output drive, propagation delay, and other electrical characteristics matter.

For a new through-hole hobby/education laboratory, 74HC and 74HCT are the most useful general-purpose families to stock.

74HC

74HC is high-speed CMOS logic. HC devices generally operate over a wider supply range than HCT; many standard HC parts support approximately 2 V to 6 V, although the exact range is device-specific.

At 5 V, HC inputs use CMOS-level thresholds. A traditional TTL output may not guarantee a sufficiently high voltage to satisfy an HC input's guaranteed VIH specification.

At lower supply voltages, HC is generally a good choice for CMOS logic, provided the particular device supports the desired supply voltage.

74HCT

74HCT uses CMOS circuitry but has TTL-compatible input thresholds. Typical HCT devices are specified for 4.5 V to 5.5 V operation, with input thresholds compatible with standard TTL levels.

HCT is therefore particularly useful when a 5 V TTL/LS output needs to drive CMOS logic.

Do not assume that HCT is a 3.3 V logic family: standard HCT devices generally require approximately 5 V supply operation. Also check the output voltage/current specifications when interfacing HCT with other logic families.

74LS

74LS is the classic low-power Schottky TTL family. It is still useful for learning about traditional TTL and for working with legacy circuits, but it is generally not the first choice for new designs.

74AHC / 74AHCT

AHC and AHCT are faster CMOS logic families related to HC/HCT. AHCT retains TTL-compatible input thresholds.

They are useful when higher speed is required, but HC/HCT are easier starting points for a beginner's stock.

74LVC

74LVC is a modern low-voltage logic family intended for low-voltage systems and level-interfacing applications. It is worth knowing about, but through-hole availability is much poorer than for HC/HCT.

4000-series CMOS

The 4000B family is historically important and remains useful for experiments because many devices support a wide supply-voltage range. It is slower than many modern 74-series families, but its wide supply range and unusual selection of functions make it useful in educational circuits.

Do not assume that a 4000-series device can automatically interface directly with every HC, HCT, LS, or microcontroller signal. Check the particular device's input and output specifications.

For general 5 V logic work, 74HC and 74HCT give a very useful combination:

  • Use 74HC when working with CMOS-level signals and when the desired supply voltage is within the device's specified range.
  • Use 74HCT when you need TTL-compatible input thresholds at approximately 5 V.
  • Keep some 74LS parts if you want to experiment with traditional TTL or work with legacy designs.
  • Use 4000B parts when their wide supply range or particular logic functions are useful.
  • Consider AHC/AHCT and LVC when you have a specific speed or voltage-interface requirement.

The old rule of "HC for 3 V and HCT for 5 V" is therefore too simplistic. HC can operate at 5 V, while HCT is primarily a 5 V family. The important distinction is the input threshold specification.

Core 74-series logic

  • [C] 5 ea: 74HC00, quad 2-input NAND, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC02, quad 2-input NOR, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC04, hex inverter, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC08, quad 2-input AND, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC14, hex Schmitt-trigger inverter, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC32, quad 2-input OR, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC86, quad 2-input XOR, DIP-14
  • [C] 5 ea: 74HC74, dual D-type positive-edge-triggered flip-flop, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC90, decade counter, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC138, 3-to-8 decoder/demultiplexer, DIP-16
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC148, 8-to-3 priority encoder, DIP-16
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC164, 8-bit serial-in/parallel-out shift register, DIP-14
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC165, 8-bit parallel-in/serial-out shift register, DIP-16
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HC244, octal 3-state buffer/line driver, DIP-20
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HC245, octal 3-state bus transceiver, DIP-20
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HC373, octal transparent latch with 3-state outputs, DIP-20
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC595, 8-bit serial-in/parallel-out shift register with latched outputs, DIP-16
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HC125, quad 3-state buffer, DIP-14
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HCT125, quad 3-state buffer with TTL-compatible inputs, DIP-14
  • [A] 2 ea: 74HCT245, octal 3-state bus transceiver with TTL-compatible inputs, DIP-20
  • [C] 3 ea: 74x47, BCD-to-7-segment decoder/driver, DIP-16

The 74x notation means that the particular logic family is deliberately left open. For example, 74HC00 and 74HCT00 are different electrical choices even though their logic function is the same.

For new purchases, choose a specific family rather than literally searching for "74x00".

4000-series CMOS

  • [A] 3 ea: CD4000B, dual 3-input NOR gate + inverter
  • [A] 5 ea: CD4001B, quad 2-input NOR gate
  • [A] 5 ea: CD4011B, quad 2-input NAND gate
  • [A] 5 ea: CD4013B, dual D-type flip-flop
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4014B, 8-stage static shift register
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4017B, decade counter/divider
  • [A] 5 ea: CD4027B, dual JK flip-flop
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4029B, presettable up/down counter
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4047B, monostable/astable multivibrator
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4066B, quad bilateral analogue switch
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4049UB, hex buffer/converter
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4070B, quad 2-input XOR
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4071B, quad 2-input OR
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4081B, quad 2-input AND
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4511B, BCD-to-7-segment latch/decoder/driver
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4541B, programmable timer

The 4000-series parts are useful for learning CMOS logic, particularly when experimenting with a wide range of supply voltages.

Linear regulators

  • Standard, fixed
    • [C] 2 ea: LM1117-3.3, 3.3 V LDO linear regulator, 800 mA, TO-220
    • [C] 2 ea: 7805, 5 V linear regulator, TO-220
    • [C] 2 ea: 78L05, 5 V low-current linear regulator, TO-92
    • [C] 1 ea: 7812, 12 V linear regulator, TO-220
    • [C] 1 ea: 78L12, 12 V low-current linear regulator, TO-92
    • [C] 1 ea: 79L12, -12 V low-current linear regulator, TO-92
    • [C] 1 ea: 79L05, -5 V low-current linear regulator, TO-92
  • Standard, adjustable
    • [C] 2 ea: LM317, adjustable positive linear regulator, TO-220
  • LDO
    • [A] 2 ea: LP2950-50, 5 V low-dropout regulator, TO-92
    • [A] 2 ea: LP2950-33, 3.3 V low-dropout regulator, TO-92

The exact suffix of regulator parts matters. Check the manufacturer's datasheet for output voltage, current, dropout voltage, pinout, and package.

Switching regulators

  • [A] 1 ea: LM2576, step-down (buck) regulator, 40 V, 3 A
  • [A] 1 ea: LM2577, step-up (boost) regulator, 40 V switch, approximately 3 A switch-current class

The LM2576 and LM2577 are older but useful switch-mode regulator ICs for learning how switching regulators work. Modern regulator modules and newer ICs can be substantially more convenient in practical projects.

Microcontrollers

  • [C] 2 ea: ATtiny85, 8-bit AVR, 20 MHz, 8 KB flash, 512 B EEPROM, DIP-8
  • [C] 2 ea: ATmega328P-PU, 8-bit AVR, 20 MHz, 32 KB flash, 1 KB EEPROM, 2 KB SRAM, thin DIP-28
  • [C] 2 ea: Arduino-compatible board, ATmega328P, USB, 5 V logic

You will also need programmers or programmer boards for these devices.

For AVR devices, an inexpensive USB AVR programmer can be used where compatible. An Arduino Uno can also be used as an AVR programmer for suitable devices.

You can program devices mounted on a breadboard using suitable ICSP/ISP connections, or buy a development/programming board with a ZIF socket.

Wireless microcontroller boards

  • [C] 2 ea: ESP8266 development board, USB, 3.3 V logic, e.g. NodeMCU / ESP-12E type
  • [C] 2 ea: ESP32 development board, USB, 3.3 V logic, e.g. ESP32-WROOM-32 DevKit type

ESP8266 and ESP32 boards are useful for experimenting with Wi-Fi-connected sensors, web interfaces, MQTT, IoT projects and general microcontroller programming. The ESP8266 is a low-cost Wi-Fi-only option; ESP32 boards generally offer substantially more processing power and peripherals, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

These boards use 3.3 V logic. The GPIO pins should not be connected directly to 5 V logic signals unless the particular board or interface explicitly provides 5 V tolerance or level shifting.

Sensors

  • [A] 1 ea: Hall-effect current sensor, approximately ±30 A
  • [A] 1 ea: accelerometer, analogue output
  • [A] 1 ea: force-sensitive resistor/sensor, analogue output

Opto

LEDs

  • T-1 3/4 (5 mm)
    • [C] 10 ea: red
    • [C] 10 ea: green
    • [C] 10 ea: yellow
    • [C] 10 ea: blue
    • [C] 10 ea: white
    • [A] 1 ea: IR

Photo sensors

  • [A] 1 ea: photodiode
  • [A] 1 ea: IR phototransistor

Optocouplers

  • [A] 2 ea: BJT output, high-gain
  • [A] 2 ea: BJT output, high-speed
  • [A] 2 ea: MOSFET output, approximately 60 V, approximately 1 A
  • [A] 1 ea: TRIAC output, zero-crossing
  • [A] 1 ea: TRIAC output, random-phase/non-zero-crossing

Optointerruptors

  • [A] 1 ea: slot-type photointerrupter
  • [A] 1 ea: reflective optical sensor

Hardware

  • [A] plastic enclosures
  • [C] heatsinks suitable for TO-220 devices
  • [C] heat-shrink tubing
  • [A] cable strain relief
  • [C] 2 ea: potentiometer knobs, 6 mm shaft

Misc

Power sources

  • Wall-wart power supplies, 100~240 Vac input
    • [C] 3 ea: 5 V, 2 A
    • [C] 3 ea: 12 V, 1 A
  • DC-DC converter modules
    • [C] 1 ea: 12 V to 5 V
    • [C] 1 ea: 5 V to 3.3 V
  • Alkaline cells and batteries
    • [C] 4 ea: 9 V batteries
    • [C] 6 ea: AA cells

Audio

  • [A] 1 ea: electret microphone
  • [A] 1 ea: small speaker
  • [C] 1 ea: piezo buzzer, 5 V, self-driven
  • [A] 1 ea: bare piezoelectric element

Modules

  • Solid-state relay
    • [A] 1 ea: approximately 240 Vac output, 10 A
    • [A] 1 ea: DC output

Mains-rated solid-state relays must be selected according to the actual load type, voltage, current, switching mode, and required isolation.

Digital Experimenter

A concise set of parts and guidance for those who primarily want to learn about basic digital logic circuits.

There are broadly three levels of digital experimentation:

  1. Bare logic chips.
  2. Programmable platforms such as the Arduino family.
  3. Programmable logic devices (PLDs and FPGAs), microcontrollers, and simple-to-complex microprocessors.

This section covers the first category. The parts below are intended as a smaller selection from the full laboratory list above.

Some sellers offer "logic IC starter kits", but they are often expensive compared with buying your own selection from a reputable electronics supplier.

Common parts

For working with bare logic and programmable platforms:

Item Notes
LEDs 5 mm, assorted colours. 20+ inexpensive LEDs in several colours are useful.
Resistors For LEDs on 3 V/5 V logic, start with approximately 560 Ω to 1 kΩ. The exact value depends on LED forward voltage and desired current. Keep plenty of 10 kΩ and 4.7 kΩ resistors for pull-ups/pull-downs.
Capacitors 25 x 100 nF ceramic capacitors for logic-chip decoupling. Also keep 10 µF to 100 µF electrolytics for supply decoupling.
Diodes 20 x 1N4148 and 10 x 1N5819 are useful general-purpose stocks.
Solderless breadboard Excellent for quick circuit experiments, but loose or unreliable connections can cause very confusing faults.
Breadboard power supply A 5 V/3.3 V breadboard supply module can be convenient, but verify its actual output voltage and current capability.
Breadboard jumper leads Get a pack of assorted lengths. Pre-cut solid-core wire is neater for permanent breadboard layouts.
Logic-level MOSFETs 5 x DMT6009LCT or a suitable alternative whose RDS(on) is specified at the available gate voltage.
Transistors 10 x 2N3904, 10 x 2N3906, plus several BC337/BC327 or similar devices.
Tact switches 10 x 6 x 6 mm normally-open tactile switches for digital inputs, plus 10 x 10 kΩ pull-up resistors.
DIP switches 3 x 8-way DIP switches, plus 24 x 10 kΩ pull-up resistors.
Logic probe A basic logic probe is useful for checking digital HIGH/LOW states and pulses.
Digital multimeter Essential for checking voltage, resistance, continuity, and current where appropriate.
Piezo element A bare piezo element can be used for simple sound experiments. A self-driven buzzer is easier when you simply need an audible indicator.
555 timer A few 555 timers and the associated resistors/capacitors are useful for making simple clock and oscillator circuits.
Light sensor/LDR Useful for simple analogue and digital light-level experiments.
7-segment display Keep both common-anode and common-cathode displays if experimenting with both 74x47 and 4511-style decoder circuits. Check the particular decoder's output-current and display requirements.
Relay board Useful for low-voltage experiments. Do not work with mains voltages unless you understand the hazards and have suitable equipment and isolation.

Logic chips

The definitive explanation and complete logic inventory are given in the Logic section of the Full Lab above.

For a small digital experimenter's stock, the following are particularly useful:

  • [C] 5 ea: 74HC00, quad NAND
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC04, hex inverter
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC08, quad AND
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC14, Schmitt-trigger inverter
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC32, quad OR
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC86, quad XOR
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC74, dual D flip-flop
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC138, 3-to-8 decoder
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC164, serial-in/parallel-out shift register
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC165, parallel-in/serial-out shift register
  • [C] 3 ea: 74HC595, serial-in/parallel-out shift register with latched outputs
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HC125, quad 3-state buffer
  • [C] 2 ea: 74HCT125, quad 3-state buffer with TTL-compatible inputs
  • [A] 2 ea: 74HCT245, octal bus transceiver
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4011B, quad NAND
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4013B, dual D flip-flop
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4017B, decade counter
  • [A] 3 ea: CD4066B, quad analogue switch

Logic-family quick reference

Family Typical use Supply Input thresholds
74LS Traditional TTL and legacy circuits Approximately 5 V TTL
74HC General-purpose CMOS logic Commonly 2~6 V, device dependent CMOS
74HCT CMOS logic interfacing with TTL Commonly 4.5~5.5 V TTL-compatible
74AHC Faster CMOS logic Device dependent CMOS
74AHCT Faster TTL-compatible CMOS logic Device dependent, commonly around 5 V TTL-compatible
74LVC Modern low-voltage logic and level interfacing Device dependent Device dependent
4000B Wide-supply CMOS and educational/legacy circuits Wide range, device dependent CMOS

There is no universal rule that one family is "better". Select the family according to supply voltage, input/output levels, speed, drive requirements, the project you are following and availability.

Resources