"Vaughn Combs" wrote in message
news
Greetings,

I figures that this would be the BEST group to ask these questions. I am
getting back into building after quite a while. I am putting in a section
in
the attic shack for testing and fabrication and have am starting to equip
things. I already have some relatively good test gear, Tektronics 475A,
DM44, sig generator, etc. but want to set up for fabrication. I have been
wondering what most of you find as indispensible on your benches. I really
want a PCB vise/holder that would aid in the fabrication process.

If any of you do your own design/fab of PCBs I would also be very
interested
in what you find are the best tools/techniques. If you are using software
to
go from circuits to black PCB mask I am VERY interested in this
(freeware/shareware is best). I have been reading some of the sites but I
am
most interested in what you as experienced homebrewers like the MOST.

I have done some kit building and fab long ago but I have been out of it
for
quite some time. I have ordered an elecraft K1 to get my soldering back
into
shape ;-)

Many Thanks and 73,
Vaughn

Vaughn -

I have been very happy with the PanaVise products for vises and PC board
holders.

I have use the Weller "TCP" series and "EC" series soldering stations for
almost all of my kits since 1975.

Starting places:
http://www.amasci.com/amateur/elehob.html

http://www.rac.ca/opsinfo/infobuild.htm

http://www.mtechnologies.com/building/atoz.htm

http://ww2.netnitco.net/users/wt9w/kit%20building.html

Greg
w9gb