Tools that we use

General
1

There are a few tools that I can no longer live without, first one is a electric rechargeable screwdriver with a circuit tester, I bought below maybe 2 years ago and just bought another, I have production ones that we use at the shop but this one is smaller portable and USB charging is a plus

Also a good USB charge flash light is a must and bought below from Amazon, also just bought more

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1441TTZ

2

Sadly, I just ordered 1.5x eyeglass magnifiers from amazon. Unfortunately, they’re coming in handy :slight_smile:

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3

Yep your young, 1.5 is just the start

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4

I’m ordering that screwdriver set, that looks real nice

5

Its really nice, it also has a LED light that works, most lights on drill dont point in the right place

6

Yeah, I have DeWalt cordless drills & the light doesn’t go anywhere near where the drill bit or driver bit makes contact - unless you’re happening to use 12” aircraft bits

7

The primary failure point on several of our phones has been the charging port; a few thousand connects/disconnects over a few years and the phone is useless. So I got these; will probably get a bunch as stocking stuffers this year (Update: stocking stuffers bought; chose these instead based on reviews and unit cost).

8

Speaking of phones, anyone have a folding one? my phone is about 7 years old and its getting close to time to upgrade

9

You and me both. Starting with 1.5, hope it does not get worse anytime soon.

For me, I find I ALWAYS need to get this guy out. No idea where I originally got it, but the clips are so nice when testing Modbus networks.

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10

All those wishing it stops at 1.5. :slight_smile:

11

I just turned 59 and mine stopped (for now), not sure how or why but my last two prescriptions where the same, my last was 3 years ago

I still remember the day I needed glasses (late 30’s), I was trying to read a motor plate, the motor was close to a wall so I could fit my head between them but being that close to it I could not read it, I thought there was something really wrong…. went to the DR and yep, they said you need glasses

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12

I’ve been buying 2.5 for years, and last time I went to the dollar store to get a couple they didn’t have any, but they did have 3.5’s.

Now I’m content with those.

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13

In my teens I could hold a Chap-Stick tube up to 1” of my eye and read the fine print, I could also read freeway exit signs when they were so far away that my mom could only see a green blob,

When I couldn’t read those when 20 I went to get glasses and the doctor said “What are you complaining about - your sight is actually better then 20/20?”

I figured out my sight as a kid had to be 20/6.

The other odd thing, that I think is related to a glitch in the matrix, was when driving whenever there was a cop on the road ahead I saw one blue flash. I figured I saw him just as he turned off his lights - but it happened repeatedly. Then I noticed it happened for Michigan State police cars and back then they only had red lights - no blue at all even though I clearly saw a blue strobe flash

14

Hell I’ve been wearing glasses since I was about 8.

15

Boy this topic could use a Wiki…. I don’t have time to look up everything, so I’ll just brainstorm a list of the things I usually carry into a plant with my, or at least keep in my car for quick access. Reply or DM me if you want more information about any specific item and I’ll look it up.

  • 4ft folding table with 30” and 38” heights
  • collapsible stool (variable height) with memory foam pad
  • windup extension cord with quad outlet
  • USB-C GB Ethernet adapter with built-in 4-port switch
  • 30ft slimrun Ethernet cable with cable management windup shell
  • USB-C portable HD monitor
  • Tripplite Keyspan 19H-S USB serial port adapter (I have a toolbox full of PLC serial cables, and the USB ones would be bulkier. easier to carry a single USB adapter)
  • Standard RS232 cable, null modem, and gender benders
  • USB-B, mini, and micro programming cables
  • Zip-up tackle “book” with elastic loops for hand tools
    • set of Wera terminal screwdrivers
    • Wera full size philips and slotted screwdrivers
    • diagonal cutters
    • small adjustable wrench
    • needle-nose pliers
    • wire stripper
    • folding utility knife
  • Multi-meter with tip accessory kit (standard, alligator clip, needle-tip)
  • Clamp-meter
  • Cheap tachometer
  • Extech process meter and simulator
  • O-Light Warrier Mini 2 flashlight with magnet
  • 5mm dot grid notebook, black and red pens
3 Likes
16

I always carry blue pens for writing notes and changes on printouts that are all black ink or toner.

When I get back to my computer I just glance at each page and look for blue writing, then make those changes in CAD, the PLC or HMI, or whatever needs changed, or something new on the Buy or ToDo lists. Easier to read than red and sometimes red wont scan on a copier.

Plus I always carry an assortment of highlighters. When I install each wire on the schematic I highlight it yellow and wires changed I highlight pink. When every component & wire is highlighted yellow the wiring is done.

17

Since it’s in the news now,

For those of you that use ferrules on wires, what do you crimp them with? And how many crimps per ferrule?

18

There is only one type that I will use, I tried selling them at one point but they did not sell good, they crimp from 4 sides

19

Just found the set I use to have… no wonder someone borrowed them and never gave them back

Grainger product number 10U177 404.00 USD

20

Raptor has it for $520, Amazon has it for $190

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