Description: Laptop Computer
Purpose: To communicate with the Boe-Bot, to make engineering models and drawings, to perform scientific calculations, to write reports, and to develop computer-based presentations. You will also need your laptop during the exams.
Source: Various sources.
Description: Mathcad
Purpose: For performing scientific calculations
Source: PSU Office of Information Technology
Cost: $15
Download and complete this form. Take the completed form, $15, and your Current PSU ID to the help desk in Smith Center, Room 18
Description: Parallax Boe-Bot (serial) with USB to Serial Adapter and 7.5 VDC power supply
Purpose: The Boe-Bot is the platform utilized for laboratory and design projects. The Boe-Bot can be interfaced with a host of electrical components, sensors and actuators, providing a mechanism for implementing interesting engineering projects. In ENGR 120, the Boe-Bot is mostly used as a kit. The Board of Education (the top part of the Boe-Bot shown in the picture) is removed from the chassis/wheels in ENGR 121 and 122 and directly integrated into projects.
Description: 7 Function Multimeter
Purpose: For understanding and troubleshooting electrical circuits and components
Source: www.harborfreight.com (part number 270-334). You can find these almost anywhere, and the quality varies. Better multimeters are autoranging, which makes measurement easier. But, the multimeter shown will work well for this course.
Approximate Cost: $2.99 (this is extremely inexpensive for a multimeter)
Description: Mini Test Clip Adapters
Purpose: Adding these clips to the probles on the multimeter leads makes troubleshooting your circuits much easier.
Source: www.radioshack.com or at a local Radio Shack store.
CAUTION: Radio Shack's mini hook clips look almost identical to the mini test clip adapters - you DO NOT need the mini hook clips. Be sure to get part number 270-334.
Approximate Cost: $3.49 per pair
Description: ANSI Approved Safety Glasses
Purpose: To protect your eyes during project work
Source: Varous sources (online or local)
Approximate Cost: $2 - $10 per pair
Description: Canvas Tool Bag (internal and external pockets not necessary)
Purpose: To hold your tools
Source: Varous sources, online or local
Approximate Cost: $3 - $12
Description: Needle Nose Pliers
Purpose: Nice for doing electrical work
Source: Varous sources, online or local
Approximate Cost: $2 - $10
Description: Stainless Steel Ruler (there are all different types that would work well)
Purpose: For measuring and laying out parts during fabrication
Source: Varous sources, online or local
Approximate Cost: $3 - $12
Description: Dial Caliper (6 inch with thumb wheel is recommended)
Purpose: To measure parts to within 0.001 inch
Source: Varous sources, online or local. At www.harborfreight.com, see part number 5658-1VGA.
Approximate Cost: $15 up
Description: Screwdriver. A Phillips and flat head screwdriver is handy. You can purchase a 6-in-1 as shown, or separate screwdrivers. A small screwdriver comes with the Boe-Bot kit, but this screwdriver won't be large enough when assembling the pump in ENGR 120.
Purpose: To assemble parts
Source: Varous sources, online or local.
Approximate Cost: $2 - $10
Description: Wire Stripper. You will need to strip 22 gage solid core wire (this is the size wire that fits into your breadboard).
Purpose: For stripping insulation off of wire, for crimping, and for cutting
Source: Varous sources, online or local. At www.omnitronelectronics.net, the part number is ST-30.
Approximate Cost: $5 - $15
Description: Alligator Clips (about 6 is probably enough)
Purpose: To help you wire up circuits (especially when measuring current with a multimeter).
Source: Varous sources, online or local (Radio Shack). At www.omnitronelectronics.net, the part number is TL-6BW.
Approximate Cost: $2 - $6
Description: Fine Point Sharpie (or other paint pen)
Purpose: To make marks during project fabrication. Also works good on the printed student notes.
Source: Varous sources
Approximate Cost: $1 - $2
Description: Black Electrical Tape
Purpose: Various uses, including line following for Boe-Bot
Source: Varous sources
Approximate Cost: $0.50 - $2
Description: Teflon Tape
Purpose: Thread sealing tape for plumbing fittings
Source: Varous sources
Approximate Cost: $0.60 - $2
Description: 0.032" Rosin Core Solder
Purpose: Metal for permanent and secure electrical connections - requires a soldering iron which will be supplied in the Bogard Hall Freshman Projects Laboratory (never solder on a surface that could be flammable and never in a place where people live). Read safety precautions.
Source: Varous sources, online or local. Radio Shack part number 65-017.
Approximate Cost: $2 - $3
Description: Flux for Soldering
Purpose: Helps the solder flow and stick better to the metal being soldered (read safety precautions)
Source: Varous sources, online or local (Radio Shack, Tool City). Radio Shack part number 64-022.
Approximate Cost: $3 - $7
Description: Simple and small pocket knife
Purpose: To remove burrs from plastic parts and for cutting materials
Source: Varous sources, online or local
Approximate Cost: $3 - $10
Description: 4 AA Batteries
Purpose: To power your Boe-Bot for autonomous (no wires attached) operation.
Source: Varous sources.
Approximate Cost: $4 - $7