This is my go-to repair kit for repairing my tech hardware

If you’re someone who often works on troubleshooting and repairing technical hardware, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s a breakdown of my basic hardware repair kit to inspire you to build your own.

A reliable set of screwdrivers is non-negotiable. Tech devices use a variety of screws such as Phillips, flathead and Torx. I recommend getting precision screwdriver sets with prying tools, as you will inevitably need to pry things out when dealing with machinery. Additionally, getting a kit with a flexible bit attachment, SIM tray pin and magnetizer/demagnetizer tool would also be a plus.

If you have the money for quality screwdriver sets, get precision screwdriver sets from iFixit or Wiha. You can also get a cheap screwdriver set like I got here:

Yes, the bits are probably mild steel, but I’ve never had a problem with them in over two years of use. If you only use them for engineering and other low torque applications you should be fine.

A multi-tool is an essential part of any repair kit. This handy tool combines several functions into one compact unit, making it ideal for quick repairs or when working in a pinch. Most multi-tools include pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers and small knives – giving you the flexibility to tackle a variety of tasks.

For technical repairs, The Leatherman Wave or Gerber Multi-Plier are popular options due to their durability and range of features. I like a multi-tool for my personal kit because it’s something I carry daily and use more often. Still, I would recommend having a good set of pliers, side cutters, and scissors if you don’t want to use a multi-tool like I do.

Digital multimeter

When diagnosing hardware, a multimeter or multitester becomes indispensable. It measures voltage, current and resistance and helps you test everything from faulty power supplies to shorts on motherboards. Get an autoranging digital multimeter with RMS and continuity functions. These features can help beginners learn how to use a multimeter or save time for more experienced technicians.

Again, you don’t need to buy an expensive multimeter. A $20-$40 Neoteck multimeter should be accurate enough to detect if a device/component is not providing standard voltages used in common electronics (eg 3.3V DC, 5V DC, 12V DC). If you are on a budget, it would always be ideal to get trusted name brand multimeters from Klein Tools and Fluke.

USB power meter

USB Power Meter is another useful diagnostic tool to pair with a multimeter. Sometimes the problem is with the USB port or power adapter. USB Power Meter is a specialized tool that helps you test the functionality of USB ports and adapters. It measures the supplied current and voltage, which is essential for solving phone, tablet or laptop charging problems. It’s a simple but effective way to see if your device is getting the right amount of power.

Variable power supply

For more advanced repairs, especially when working with components that require specific voltage settings, a variable power supply is incredibly useful. It allows you to apply power at adjustable levels, allowing you to safely test and power up components without using their built-in power supplies.

While you can certainly use power adapters and batteries to power and test electronics, they don’t give you any flexibility when it comes to voltage and current settings. So if you’re planning to repair or build your own technology as something you’ll be doing long-term, a variable power supply is essential.

A 30V 5A variable power supply should be sufficient for most applications. A few extra things I would look for in a desktop power supply are a USB port to power USB devices, overcurrent protection, and a short-finding or “short killer” feature.

Rosin Atomizing Pen

Combined with your power supply’s short finding feature, a rosin atomizing pen is a cheap and handy way to find ground shorts on circuit boards when schematics aren’t available. Technicians today use thermal imaging cameras to detect possible shorts by looking at hot spots on circuit boards. Thermal imaging cameras (although much cheaper today) can be prohibitive, especially for people who are only interested in occasional repairs.

A rosin spray pen coats a specific part of the circuit board (the part where a ground short is suspected) with rosin. When the circuit is energized, the shorted components should generate enough heat to melt the rosin, thus detecting the short.

Soldering iron/station

After diagnosing the problem, you may need to replace parts or components in the electronics. A soldering iron or station is essential for repairing printed circuit boards, replacing components, or reconnecting damaged connectors.

Look for a soldering station with adjustable temperature control, as different projects require different levels of heat. Some major brands that are looking for a good soldering station are Hakko and Weller. If you need something smaller and can be powered by a USB-C power bank, the Pinecil and TS80 are also popular alternatives.

Headlamp

Good lighting is essential when working in tight or dark spaces such as a computer cabinet. The headlamp frees up your hands while providing direct light where you need it. That’s better than holding a flashlight in your mouth or asking for some extra hands to hold the light for you. Ideally, you should have a flood/work light to illuminate your immediate surroundings and a headlamp to illuminate what you are actually working on. But if you can only afford one (or carry one), get a headlamp.

Look for a lightweight headlamp with high CRI (Color Rendering Index) lights. I recommend the Nitecore NU33 for its high CRI, high lumen LED, long battery life, and lightweight design.

Whether it’s trimming screws or grinding away imperfections on a 3D printed housing, a rotary tool (like a Dremel) is your best friend. It is also ideal for modifying hardware covers or even cutting through damaged screws. Look for attachments that match the specific job at hand for best results.

3D printer

A 3D printer might seem like an odd choice for this list, but I can’t count the number of times I’ve needed custom mounts, covers, or replacement parts that are no longer available. A 3D printer allows you to make these parts on demand.

So if you are already thinking about buying a 3D printer, this is another reason why you should definitely get one. There are several factors to consider before buying a 3D printer, but it doesn’t always have to be big, expensive or complicated.

3D printers like Bambu Lab’s A1 Mini are small, cost around $280 without AMS (Automatic Material System), and take just 20 minutes to set up. If you need something that can print larger objects with abrasive fibers like carbon fiber, you can also get the Creality K1C or Creality K1 Max if you’re on a budget.