Getting started with IoT projects

Hello world

This post is part of a 3-part series. 

Part 1 (this post)
Part 2 (here)
Part 3 (here)

In my last post I suggested on how to start off with an IoT project. I realize that that post is quite insufficient. Even googling today, I didn't find an article that would better equip you. That might not be the case in the future. Anyway, I thought it best I write some advice based on how I got started. 

Remember these are just my thoughts...

For the absolute beginner

My first advice would be start off with a project for your home. Doing a "hands-on" ASAP is the best approach.

There are books out there. Considering my initial advice, I feel books are silly. But I did find one book useful:

Make Electronics (https://amzn.to/2CNrMgB)

(I might update this section if I come across more books)

There are also various starter kits available. But once you buy and stare at them you might experience bull-in-a-china-shop syndrome; except, (in all probability) you are not in a shop. You might not know what to do with it.

You need a lab/workspace

The idea here is, you don't want to be interrupted. You do not want to interrupt others. You may want to kid proof to some extent. Air and illumination should be in adequate supply. Access to a computer and/or AC mains is a plus.

A lack of such a space, in any way, should not discourage you. Just take extra precautions like cleaning up after your work.

Also have a fire extinguisher handy. You need not purchase it. For e.g. if you live in an apartment complex, there is probably a place where it is installed. Just know where to run to and grab it in case of fire...Be sure you grab one meant to douse electrical fires.

You need a toolbox (of sorts)

You need a set of tools to help you prototype and for troubleshooting.

Multimeter

Assorted components

Resistors

Capacitors

Transistors

Tools

Wire cutters

Tweezers

Soldering iron kit (with solder reel, stand, etc)

Wires

Jumpers - assorted (every combination of Male/female)

Hookup wires

Alligator wires

Power supply

Linear regulators

DC sources

Of course there are perforated boards, jewellery repair stand, etc. You do not need those now...

I have summarized this based on my experience so far, and also collating what I have seen from several IoT creators on YouTube. And this a minimal list. 

DO NOT BUY ALL AT ONCE. Make a fair judgement based on what your project needs and then procure.

If you happen to watch a lot of creator videos today they may have a lot of equipment. They are nice to have, but they can drain your budget. I am talking about oscilloscope, frequency generators, etc. For simple projects, you don't need those. Even if there are cheap versions of the same, look the other way...

The next part is advice you really need.