Hezus wrote on 2023-04-30, 09:37:

I've got a simple soldering station and a multimeter but I would like to aquire some more tools. What would you recommend?

A desoldering station is a good investment if you're going to be replacing a lot of capacitors. It makes the process much easier.

Do I need microscopes and oscilloscopes?

A magnifying lens or a microscope is extremely helpful when working on SMD components. I have a couple of magnifying lenses with a mounting stand, which allows me to place a component under it and still have both hands free to work.

This is based on the equipment I find most useful:

* Circuit board holder and vise clamps
* Heated de-soldering pump
* Soldering supplies (solder mat, solder braid, various types of solder, flux, solder mask)
* Various pliers and tweezers
* Flush cutters
* Wire strippers
* General disassembly kit including prying tools and various screwdrivers/bits
* Cleaning supplies (compressed air, swabs, IPA, anti-static brushes, corrosion cleaners, etc.)
* Plastic repair supplies (acetone, plastic epoxies and fillers)
* ESR tester - for capacitor testing
* Magnetic component bins - highly useful for keeping small metal bits from disappearing during disassembly
* Safety equipment (chemical filtration mask, dust masks, fume extractor, disposable gloves)
* Storage and organization (shelves, pegboard, component bins, etc.)

For SMD work specifically I would recommend:

* Hot air station
* Microscope

If you decide to work on CRT monitors, you'll want to make a discharge tool. I've also been getting into glass polishing for CRT scratch removal, but that is a bit more of a niche specialty.

I recommend a PIC programmer if you're doing anything involving programmable ICs. I use a TL866ii Plus and have found it invaluable for flashing firmware on various chips.

Regarding an oscilloscope, I have one, but haven't had a great use for it yet. I suppose it is useful for checking things like clock signals or possible outputs from ICs. But mostly I find voltage and continuity testing to be the most useful.

A couple things that I don't have yet, but are on my shopping list is a bench power supply and a thermal camera. And maybe a general component tester, although I haven't had a big need for one yet.