Surface Mount Device (SMD) components are integral elements in the world of electronics. These tiny devices have paved the way for miniaturized circuits, enabling sleeker designs and enhanced performance. SMD components play a crucial role in the functioning of electronic circuits, making it essential for anyone involved in electronics to understand them. Whether you're an electronics enthusiast, a professional engineer, or simply curious about the inner workings of your everyday devices, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of SMD components.
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Surface-mount devices (SMDs) are electronic components mounted directly to the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). They have largely replaced through-hole technology (THT) components, which require holes to be drilled in the PCB for installation. SMD components are preferred due to their smaller size and higher component density, which allows for more compact and efficient circuit design.
SMD components play a critical role in the functioning of electronic devices. They are used in virtually all modern electronic equipment, including computers, mobile phones, and home appliances. Their primary function is to control the flow of electricity in a circuit, but they can also perform various other tasks depending on the specific component type.
The use of SMD components offers several advantages over traditional through-hole components. Firstly, they are smaller and lighter, which allows for the creation of smaller and more portable electronic devices. Secondly, they can be placed on both sides of a PCB, increasing the circuit density and allowing for more complex circuit designs. Finally, SMD components can be installed using automated equipment, which reduces manufacturing costs and increases production speed.
Surface Mount Device (SMD) components come in a variety of types, each with its unique function in an electronic circuit. The basic types of SMD components include resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
Resistors are one of the most common types of SMD components. They are used to limit the flow of electric current in a circuit. The resistance of a resistor is measured in ohms (Ω), and SMD resistors typically have resistance values ranging from 1 ohm to several megaohms.
Resistors on the Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) of an electronic device
SMD resistors come in various types, each designed for a specific application. For instance, thin-film resistors are known for their high precision and stability, making them ideal for precision applications such as instrumentation. They are typically available in resistance values ranging from 1 ohm to 3 megaohms, with tolerance values as low as 0.01%. [1]
On the other hand, thick-film resistors are more common and less expensive than thin-film resistors. They are typically used in general-purpose applications where high precision is not required. Thick-film resistors are available in a wide range of resistance values, from 1 ohm to several gigaohms, with tolerance values typically ranging from 1% to 5%.
Another type of SMD resistor is the current sense resistor, which is used to measure electric current. These resistors have very low resistance values, typically less than 1 ohm, and are designed to produce a voltage drop, proportional to the current flowing through them. This voltage drop can then be measured and used to calculate the current.
In addition, specialty resistors such as wire-wound resistors, known for their high power handling capability, and metal foil resistors offer extremely high precision and stability. The choice of resistor type depends on the specific requirements of the application.
Capacitors are another fundamental type of SMD component. They store and release electrical energy in a circuit, acting like a temporary battery. Capacitors are used in various applications, including filtering noise, stabilizing voltage, and storing energy for later use.
Capacitors on the Printed Circuit Board of an electronic device
The capacitance of a capacitor, which measures its ability to store electrical charge, is measured in farads (F). However, most capacitors used in electronic circuits have capacitance values in the microfarad (µF), nanofarad (nF), or picofarad (pF) range.
SMD capacitors come in several types, each with its unique characteristics. Ceramic capacitors are the most common type of SMD capacitor. They are inexpensive, have a wide range of capacitance values, and are non-polarized, meaning they can be installed in either direction. However, their capacitance can vary with temperature and voltage, which can disadvantage precision applications.
Tantalum capacitors are another type of SMD capacitor. They offer higher capacitance values and better stability than ceramic capacitors, but they are polarized and more expensive. Tantalum capacitors are typically used in power supply circuits due to their high capacitance-to-volume ratio. [2]
Another type of SMD capacitor is the film capacitor. Film capacitors are known for their high precision, stability, and reliability. They are typically used in high-frequency applications such as RF circuits and high-quality audio equipment.
Finally, there are electrolytic capacitors, which offer very high capacitance values but have lower precision and stability than other capacitors. They are polarized and have a limited lifespan, especially when operated at high temperatures. Electrolytic capacitors are typically used in power supply circuits requiring high capacitance.
Each type of capacitor has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of capacitor type depends on the specific requirements of the application.
Recommended Reading: How to Discharge a Capacitor: Comprehensive Guide
Inductors are another type of SMD component that play a crucial role in electronic circuits. They are used to store energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through them. Inductors are primarily used in analog circuits and power supplies to filter out high-frequency noise and stabilize the current flow.
Toroidal inductors and a transformer during the PCB manufacturing of an electronic device
The inductance of an inductor, which measures its ability to store energy in a magnetic field, is measured in henries (H). However, most inductors used in electronic circuits have inductance values in the microhenry (µH) or nanohenry (nH) range.
SMD inductors come in several types, each with its unique characteristics. Wirewound inductors are the most common type of SMD inductor. They are made by winding a wire around a magnetic core, offering high inductance values and high current handling capability. However, their inductance can vary with frequency, disadvantaging high-frequency applications.
Another type of SMD inductor is the multilayer inductor. Multilayer inductors are made by stacking multiple layers of a magnetic material, and they offer high inductance values in a small package. However, they have lower current handling capability compared to wire-wound inductors.
Ferrite bead inductors are a particular type of inductor used to filter out high-frequency noise in electronic circuits. They are made by threading a wire through a bead made of ferrite material. [3] Ferrite bead inductors have high resistance at high frequencies, which allows them to filter out the high-frequency noise.
Each type of inductor has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of inductor type depends on the specific requirements of the application. For instance, a wire-wound inductor might be chosen for a power supply circuit due to its high current handling capability. In contrast, a ferrite bead inductor might be chosen for a signal processing circuit due to its noise-filtering capability.
Advanced types of SMD components or Small Outline Transistors (SOT) include diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits (ICs). These components are more complex than basic surface mount components and are used in a wide range of applications, from power management to signal processing.
Diodes are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. They are used in various applications, such as rectification, voltage regulation, and signal processing.
Semiconductor diode during the PCB assembly process of an electronic device
SMD diodes come in several types, each with its unique characteristics and applications. One common type is the rectifier diode, which converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) in power supplies. Rectifier diodes have a high current handling capability and can withstand high reverse voltages.
Another type of SMD diode is the Schottky diode, known for its low forward voltage drop and fast switching speed. Schottky diodes are used in high-frequency applications, such as radio frequency (RF) circuits and switching power supplies. [4]
Zener diodes are another type of SMD diode, used for voltage regulation. They have a specific voltage limit beyond which they begin to conduct in the reverse direction. This property allows them to maintain a constant voltage across their terminals, making them useful for voltage regulation in electronic circuits.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are a particular type of diode that emits light when a current flows through them. SMD LEDs are used in a wide range of applications, from indicator lights to display panels.
A triode is a vacuum tube consisting of three electrodes: a heated filament or cathode, a grid, and a plate (anode). SMD triodes are used in a wide variety of electronic devices, and they offer a number of advantages over traditional through-hole triodes.
Each type of diode has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of diode type depends on the specific requirements of the application. For instance, a rectifier diode might be chosen for a power supply circuit due to its high current handling capability, while a Schottky diode might be chosen for a high-frequency application due to its fast switching speed.
Transistors are semiconductor devices that amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. They are one of the most important components in modern electronics industry and are used in various applications, from digital logic circuits to power amplifiers.
Transistor on an LCD TV printed circuit board
SMD transistors come in several types, each with its unique characteristics and applications. One common type is the bipolar junction transistor (BJT), which consists of two semiconductor junctions and can be NPN or PNP. BJTs are used in various applications, such as amplification, switching, and voltage regulation.
Another type of SMD transistor is the field-effect transistor (FET), which operates by controlling the flow of current through a semiconductor channel. FETs are further divided into two main categories: junction gate field-effect transistors (JFETs) and metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). [5] JFETs are typically used in low-noise, high-input impedance applications, while MOSFETs are used in high-speed switching and power management applications.
MOSFETs are particularly popular in modern electronics due to their high switching speed, low power consumption, and high input impedance. They come in two main types: enhancement-mode MOSFETs and depletion-mode MOSFETs. Enhancement-mode MOSFETs are normally off and require a gate voltage to turn on, while depletion-mode MOSFETs are normally on and require a gate voltage to turn off.
Each type of transistor has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of transistor type depends on the specific requirements of the application. For instance, a BJT might be chosen for a linear amplifier circuit due to its high current gain, while a MOSFET might be chosen for a switching power supply due to its high switching speed and low power consumption.
Recommended Reading: PMOS VS NMOS: Focus on Two Main Forms of MOSFET
Integrated Circuits (ICs) are complex electronic components that contain multiple transistors, diodes, resistors, capacitors, and other components on a single semiconductor chip. ICs are used in various applications, from microprocessors and memory chips to analog-to-digital converters and power management circuits.
Integrated Circuit (IC) on computer motherboard
SMD ICs come in various types, each designed for a specific application. One common type is the digital IC, which includes microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors (DSPs). Digital ICs are used in applications requiring processing and manipulating digital data, such as computers, smartphones, and digital audio equipment.
Another type of SMD IC is the analog IC, which includes operational amplifiers (op-amps), comparators, and voltage regulators. Analog ICs are used in applications that involve the processing of analog signals, such as audio amplifiers, sensors, and power supplies. Mixed-signal ICs combine digital and analog circuits on a single chip. They are used in applications requiring digital and analog processing, such as data converters and radio frequency (RF) circuits.
Power management ICs are a specialized type of SMD IC, designed to manage and distribute power in electronic devices. They include voltage regulators, battery chargers, and power switches. Power management ICs are used in various applications, from mobile phones and laptops to electric vehicles and solar power systems.
Each type of IC has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of IC type depends on the specific requirements of the application. For instance, a digital IC might be chosen for a computer motherboard due to its high processing capability. In contrast, an analog IC might be chosen for an audio amplifier circuit due to its ability to process analog signals.
Recommended Reading: What is a Semiconductor? A Comprehensive Guide to Engineering Principles and Applications
SMD components come in various sizes and codes, which are essential to understand when selecting and using these components in electronic circuits. The size and code of an SMD component provide information about its physical dimensions and electrical characteristics, allowing engineers and technicians to choose the appropriate component for a specific application.
SMD components are typically identified by a standardized code system, which consists of alphanumeric characters. This code system varies depending on the type of component, such as resistors, capacitors, or inductors.
SMD resistors are identified by a three or four-digit code, which indicates their resistance value, and tolerance. The first two or three digits represent the significant figures of the resistance value, while the last digit indicates the multiplier. For example, a resistor with the code "103" has a resistance value of 10 x 10^3 ohms, or 10 kilohms.
Resistors of different codes and sizes
SMD resistors also come in various standard sizes, denoted by a two-digit code, such as , , or . The first two digits represent the length of the resistor in hundredths of an inch, while the last two digits represent the width. For example, a resistor measures 0.06 inches in length and 0.03 inches in width.
SMD capacitors are identified by a three-digit code, which indicates their capacitance value and voltage rating. The first two digits represent the significant figures of the capacitance value, while the last digit indicates the multiplier. For example, a capacitor with the code "104" has a capacitance value of 10 x 10^4 picofarads, or 100 nanofarads.
Capacitors of different colors and sizes
Like resistors, SMD capacitors come in various standard sizes, such as , , or . The size code follows the same convention as resistors, with the first two digits representing the length and the last two digits representing the width.
SMD inductors are identified by a four-digit code, which indicates their inductance value and tolerance. The first three digits represent the significant figures of the inductance value, while the last digit indicates the multiplier. For example, an inductor with the code "" has an inductance value of 10 x 10^2 microhenries or 1 millihenry.
Toroidal inductors and transformers of different specifications
SMD inductors also come in various standard sizes, similar to resistors and capacitors. The size code follows the same convention, with the first two digits representing the length and the last two digits representing the width.
Understanding surface mount component sizes and codes is crucial for selecting the appropriate components for a specific application and ensuring the proper functioning of electronic circuits.
Careful selection of SMD components
Selecting the appropriate SMD packages for a specific application is crucial to ensure the proper functioning and performance of an electronic circuit. Several factors need to be considered when choosing SMD components, which include:
The electrical characteristics of an SMD component, such as resistance, capacitance, or inductance, must be suitable for the intended application. For example, a resistor with the correct resistance value is necessary to limit the current flow in a circuit. In contrast, a capacitor with the appropriate capacitance value is required for filtering or energy storage purposes. It is essential to consult datasheets and reference designs to determine the appropriate electrical characteristics for a specific application.
The physical dimensions of an SMD component, such as its length, width, and height, must be compatible with the available space on the printed circuit board (PCB). Additionally, the component size should be suitable for the manufacturing process, as smaller components may require more precise placement and soldering techniques. Standard SMD component sizes, such as , , or , can be used as a starting point when selecting components for a specific application.
SMD components must be compatible with other components in the circuit, both electrically and mechanically. For example, a capacitor with a high voltage rating may be required if it is connected to a high-voltage power supply, while a resistor with a high power rating may be necessary if it is used in a high-current application. Additionally, components with similar temperature coefficients should be used in temperature-sensitive applications to ensure consistent performance over a wide temperature range.
In a power supply circuit, a combination of SMD resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, and transistors may be required to regulate and filter the output voltage. The selection of these components will depend on factors such as the input voltage, output voltage, load current, and efficiency requirements.
In a radio frequency (RF) circuit, SMD capacitors and inductors may create filters that allow specific frequencies to pass while blocking others. The selection of these components will depend on the desired filter characteristics, such as the center frequency, bandwidth, and attenuation.
In a microcontroller-based circuit, SMD resistors and capacitors may be used for pull-up or pull-down resistors, decoupling capacitors, and timing circuits. The selection of these components will depend on factors such as the microcontroller's input and output requirements, power supply voltage, and timing constraints.
By carefully considering the electrical characteristics, physical dimensions, and compatibility with other components, the appropriate SMT components can be selected for a specific application, ensuring the optimal performance of the electronic circuit.
Soldering and handling SMD components require specific techniques and precautions to ensure the proper functioning and reliability of electronic circuits. SMD connectors are typically soldered to the PCB using a surface mount technology (SMT) process. The small size and delicate nature of SMD components make them more susceptible to damage during soldering and handling processes.
Soldering SMD component on Printed Circuit Board
Soldering SMD components typically involves solder paste, a mixture of solder particles and flux. The solder paste is applied to the PCB pads using a stencil or a syringe, and the SMD components are then placed on the pads using tweezers or automated pick-and-place machines. The PCB is then heated in a reflow oven, which melts the solder paste and forms a reliable electrical and mechanical connection between the component and the PCB. Ball Grid Array (BGA) components are typically more difficult to solder and desolder than other SMD components, as they are located on the underside of the package.
Several key factors are to consider when soldering SMD components:
Solder paste quality: The solder paste should have the appropriate viscosity and metal content to ensure proper wetting and adhesion to the PCB pads and component terminals.
Stencil design: The stencil should be designed to provide the correct amount of solder substrate on each pad, ensuring a reliable connection without causing solder bridges or insufficient solder joints.
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Reflow profile: The reflow oven should be programmed with the appropriate temperature profile, which includes preheating, soaking, reflow, and cooling stages. This ensures that the solder paste melts and forms a reliable joint without damaging the components or the PCB. [6]
Component alignment: The SMD components should be accurately placed on the PCB pads to ensure proper alignment and electrical connection.
QFP packages are commonly used for high pin count SMD integrated circuits, SOIC, or Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier (PLCC) components such as microprocessors, memory chips, and field-programmable gate arrays.
Handling SMD components requires care and attention to avoid damage and ensure the reliability of the electronic circuit. Some key precautions to consider when handling SMD packages include:
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection: Many SMD components, such as ICs and transistors, are sensitive to electrostatic discharge, which can cause permanent damage. It is essential to use ESD-safe tools, such as tweezers and workstations, and to wear ESD wrist straps when handling these components. [7]
Mechanical stress: SMD components can be damaged by excessive mechanical stress, such as bending or twisting. Care should be taken when handling and placing these components to avoid applying excessive force.
Temperature and humidity control: SMD components can be sensitive to temperature and humidity, which can affect their electrical characteristics and reliability. It is essential to store and handle these components in a controlled environment to ensure their long-term performance.
By following the appropriate soldering techniques and handling precautions, SMD or SMT components can be successfully integrated into electronic circuits, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Recommended Reading: Solder Reflow: An In-Depth Guide to the Process and Techniques
In conclusion, understanding the various types of SMD components, their functions, and applications is essential for anyone involved in electronics. From SOT components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors to advanced components such as diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits, each component plays a crucial role in the functioning of electronic circuits. Proper selection, soldering, and handling of these components are vital to ensure the optimal performance and reliability of electronic devices.
Q: What are SMD components?
A: SMD (Surface Mount Device) components are electronic components that are mounted directly onto the surface of printed circuit boards (PCBs). They are used in a wide range of electronic devices and offer advantages such as smaller size, higher component density, and compatibility with automated manufacturing processes.
Q: What are the basic types of SMD components?
A: The basic types of SMD components include resistors, capacitors, and inductors. Each type has a specific function in electronic circuits, such as limiting current flow, storing electrical energy, or filtering signals.
Q: What are some advanced types of SMD components?
A: Advanced types of SMD components include diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits (ICs). These components are more complex than basic SMD components and are used in a wide range of applications, from power management to signal processing.
Q: How are SMD components sized and coded?
A: SMD components are sized and coded using standardized alphanumeric codes that indicate their physical dimensions and electrical characteristics. These codes vary depending on the type of component, such as resistors, capacitors, or inductors.
Q: What precautions should be taken when soldering and handling SMD components?
A: When soldering and handling SMD components, it is essential to use appropriate soldering techniques, such as using solder paste and a reflow oven, and to follow handling precautions, such as protecting against electrostatic discharge (ESD), avoiding excessive mechanical stress, and controlling temperature and humidity.
[1] Passive Components Blog. SMD Surface Mount Chip Resistor Selection Guide [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[2] Electronics Notes. Understanding Tantalum Capacitors: technology, types, leaded, SMD [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[3] Altium. How Do Ferrite Beads Work and How Do You Choose the Right One? [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[4] Byjus. Schottky Diode [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[5] ScienceDirect. Field Effect Transistor [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[6] Research Gate. SMD Reflow Soldering: A Thermal Process Model [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
[7] ST Microelectronics. ESD Protection [Cited October 17] Available at: Link
In this article, I will guide you through building an inventory of components to get you started on your electronics journey. This guide will have sections for a few different types of audiences but will primarily focus on building a trackable inventory of common components for SMD circuit design. It is fairly lengthy so feel free to jump to a section of interest.
The aim of this article is to help you build a base inventory of common components that you can use as a starting point for your own custom inventory. This will help you standardize your designs, streamline your workflow and provide a list of trackable components that you can reference and restock as needed.
I will be recommending common components that I think would be ideal to have for a variety of circuit designs. I will also mention some application specific components based on my own experience. You can use the base inventory that I present here and add more specialized components to it as you develop more designs.
You can choose to either order all the base components at once when you start your circuit design journey, or order it as needed for the project you are currently working on. Both are valid choices. I personally prefer the first because it offers more design flexibility.
Note: I earn a small commission on Amazon purchases made through this post. But rest assured, my recommendations are not influenced by that at all. Any revenue will most likely go straight back into buying some more tools or supplies.
The base components list might not be the best option for you. If one of these sounds like you, consider the alternative options I am presenting.
You are new to electronics and have never made a circuit. You are just getting started and want to dip your toes in to see if its something you are interested in. If this sounds like you, then the best place to start might be a starter kit of components and modules. You can do a lot with these cheap kits and they provide an extremely low barrier to entry into the space. This are also a particularly great option for kids to start exploring the world of electronics.
Amazon
Amazon
You have some electronics knowledge and have worked on some basic projects in the past. You are wanting to work on more customized designs but aren't very sure if you would continue working on them in the long term. If this sounds like you, then the best option for you would still be to get kits of assorted parts but more advanced. They are much easier to get, take up less space and are much cheaper. So if you decide to change your mind, you wont have lost a bunch of money.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
If you need anything beyond what is part of these kits, you should look through the list I have put together below for the advanced users and get the components you need from there. Connectors are a big thing missing from these kits so the connector section might be worth a look.
You want to standardize your designs, want a better, more trackable component inventory and will be designing a variety of circuits on a more frequent basis. If that sounds like you, then keep reading because the component list below will be perfect place for you.
Even though I recommended development board and module kits for the beginner and intermediate users above, I will write a separate article on development boards and modules for the advanced users since there is a lot to talk about there.
Lets discuss where you could buy these components.
If you haven't heard of LCSC, you are seriously missing out. They have a very large inventory at the best prices a consumer can get. They have brands across the range from names you probably have never heard of, all the way to Nordic, ST and TI. They have all the common components in stock and for cheap.
The only downside is the expensive shipping if you are not in China. But they do have slow, cheaper shipping options. I generally do larger orders from LCSC and only pay for DHL shipping if under a tight timeline.
Digikey has brand name components at a premium cost. Those components will be cheaper on LCSC if they are available. I will add Digikey links but I don't recommend ordering the entire inventory from Digikey, use LCSC instead.
In general, if you want more specialized, higher quality, brand name components or if you want a small number of components quickly, Digikey can be the better option compared to LCSC.
There are plenty of other options like Mouser, Newark, Arrow etc. in the US. I am not too familiar with more regional distributors in other areas like Europe and Asia. LCSC and Digikey do deliver globally but if you know of good regional distributors that you want links added to, reach out and we can work together on that. The other US options aren't really targeted for consumer sale and have lack luster inventory and stock.
The following component list is the base inventory that I recommend you start with. The components are selected based on my experience working on a variety of SMD circuits and by studying open source designs. They are focused towards low power, microcontroller based circuits with some sensing, control and wireless functionality. The list mainly has SMD components that mount directly onto a PCB but I also include some through hole components as you would need for prototyping circuits on a breadboard. A few things before we get started:
Before we get into it, here are a few things to note that will help you navigate the components lists.
The inventory has a range of and resistors for SMD designs and through hole resistors for prototyping. Exact values don't matter a lot in most applications so these should be all you need.
Certain designs have a feedback resistor or shunt resistor for which you would need a very specific values. There aren't any common options for those applications so you would have to add those to the inventory yourself.
It helps to keep consistent with a certain brand and series for all your general purpose needs. Avoids any price or availability surprises down the road. You don't need to go fancy with general purpose resistors so even lesser known brands would work just fine.
The inventory has a range of common capacitors in , and SMD sizes. I have only included the most commonly used values that you will need plenty of. I also threw in some lower values that are used with crystals. A few electrolytic options are added for bulk filtering needs.
I added a few through hole capacitors in a range of values as well, mainly for prototyping. If you are doing more analog circuit design work, you will want to have a much finer range. But that is where, the aforementioned kits can come in handy. Once you determine which value you need for your design, you can include that in your tracked inventory.
Its good to not cheap out on capacitors. You can find plenty of lesser known brands and they would probably work just fine, but for a little extra cost, you can have so much more confidence that the capacitors you are using are built to spec. You can also use tools provided by the popular manufacturers to find all the characteristics of your capacitor including de-rating curves, ESR etc.
Inductors are primarily used in power circuitry. Those have specialized requirements based on current, size, switching frequency etc so there aren't many we can include in the base inventory. Hence I have only added some I have seen repeated in a few different circuits. I also included some ferrite beads for power filtering.
The inventory has common colors in , and 5mm though hole. It also has some RGB options including a few sizes of the popular Neopixel addressable LEDs.
The inventory has a basic selection of switching, rectifier, schottky and zener diodes that will be used most often in circuits. I wanted to include a few TVS diodes for ESD protection but their selection is very dependent on the operating voltage and signal requirements.
Connectors come in a variety of types, shapes and sizes. The best way to get SMD connectors is through the component distributors. But for through hole connectors, I have found that getting them in kit form from Amazon can be helpful. They come pre-sorted in a parts bin and often have connector accessories bundled together making them an even better value. When you start running low, you can order just what you need from LCSC or Digikey.
The components highlighted in Orange can be purchased as kits from from the Kits section given below. I am only adding the PCB side connectors of those kits in the list so that you have the reference documentation and can reorder them as needed. I will write a separate post about connectors that will go over them in much more detail but the ones given below should be enough for most common use cases.
Amazon
Amazon
The inventory has a variety of tactile and slide switches in both SMD and through hole versions. These options are inspired by popular designs especially from Adafruit. We have a few different sizes to fit a variety of needs. These do come in a range of heights and actuation forces, which can be selected as needed.
The inventory has a small selection of FETs and BJTs in both SMD and through hole versions. There are options for lower current loads as well as higher current loads. These should be enough for most design although more specialized designs will require more careful selection.
There are a lot of ICs out there but only some of them are seen repeatedly on circuits. The inventory includes a few linear voltage regulators, battery chargers and communication IC's. I have also included some microcontrollers I have used in the past although these will be more dependent on what you prefer using and what the latest and greatest is.
Finally, I bundled all the random components that didn't fit in any other category here. I have found these useful to have in my inventory and they have been used repeatedly in my circuit designs.
I hope you found the information I presented here useful for your own workflow and were inspired by it to either start building your inventory or level up your current inventory.
Please note that these are based on my experience working on a variety of hobby and professional circuits. If you feel like I missed something or added something extra, please comment below and I can incorporate the feedback. The goal is to make this the ultimate list of common components for the largest audience.
You can access the entire inventory Google sheets file here. You can download it as a CSV and then import it into LCSC or Digikey to automatically add all the components to your cart. I would want to improve this workflow in the future but for now, this should work.
You might be wondering how you should organize all these components that you will buy or maybe you already have a bunch of components that you want to organize. Well, stay tuned because I will write a detailed blog about my organizational system very soon. Subscribe to my blog to you don't miss it.
Here are some things I would want to work on for this in the future. Let me know if you would be interested to helping out with any of these.
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