Re: Need to stock up on SMD devices for prototyping

Alan <me@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

On Sat, 23 Sep 2006 08:50:16 GMT, "Michael (Micksa) Slade"
<micksa-news@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

So the last thing I need to do before I start diving into gEDA and
designing boards is acquire parts kits for the more common SMD devices. I
guess I would rather prototype in SMD because it makes stuff smaller, and
also means less drilling (since I'll be etching my own boards in most
cases).

I can get some resistor and capacitor kits from the local altronics for
not TOO much, but what about other components? are there similar kits
anywhere for, say, transistors, diodes etc?

I live in Australia but I am willing to order from overseas.

This is for my own personal use so waste of time isn't really an issue :)

Mick.
Both Altronics and Jaycar sell "some" ICs, transistors, diodes, etc.,
but, in general, a fairly small (but useful) selection. Farnell and
RS will also have some selection - I don't know because I generally
don't use their services.

I tend to do all my prototyping using standard components and then
change to surface mount for the production. And where possible I try
and use components which I already use in other products and which I
have stock of.

I'm finding SMD a lot more pleasant to prototype with than thru-hole
components.

Sometimes it's almost impossible to get certain components without
hitting the "minimum order quantity" barrier, which, for some parts,
can be in the hundreds or thousands, even for ICs. On the other hand

If the price is right, that's not a problem. A few weeks ago I
accidentaly 'clicked' 250 pieces into the basket instead of 50. When I
wanted to change that I noticed 50 pieces cost 3 euro and 250 pieces
on a small reel cost 2.5 euro.


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