Do-it-yourself electronic projects often involve kits and blueprints for creating robotic toys and remote controllers. Some people prefer to build electronics projects from scratch, without the aid of a draft or prototype. By using various components, a robot may be complex or simplistic. Students often take part in electronic projects for science fair assignments, and these may include anything from building an electronic timer to a loudspeaker. Complicated electronics projects for experienced hobbyists may include building a remote-controlled lawnmower or vacuum cleaner.
Electronic projects fall into categories such as fun and entertainment, educational, automotive, or telephone related. Computer-related electronic projects are popular among students studying computer technology. These projects may involve building printer cables or infrared receivers.
Intermediate electronic projects for students often include building a transistor radio. This type of project is typically built from scratch with various components that may be purchased at an electronics supply store. A radio may also be built from a kit. Children are encouraged to enlist the assistance and supervision of an adult while working on such projects.
Building a combination lock is another one of many electronic projects for adults to work on. To build the electronic lock, several components will be needed, including resistors, transistors, and micro switches. Students will require adult supervision for this project, as working with a soldering iron will be necessary. Complete instructions may be found online or in various electronic projects workbooks.
Advanced hobbyists may enjoy electronic projects such as building a miniature Light emitting diode (LED) traffic light. Red, amber, and green LEDs are needed to assemble the traffic light. Kits are available for this project, and this helps take the guesswork out for the novice do-it-yourself enthusiast.
A digital stopwatch may be built from scratch or from an electronics kit. Materials used are resistors, x-board, jump wires, and a micro controller. A battery pack will be needed to operate the homemade device. Online tutorials and short videos may help explain how to build these electronic devices at home. Many people also find ideas from downloading electronic books (e-books) online, usually at a minimal cost.
Science kits are often sold at scientific surplus stores and outlets. These kits are created to be educational, as well as to be fun for adults. Unusual items sold at scientific supply stores may include an electronic lie-detector kit or rain-detector kit. Solar-powered electronic kits are also sold at many scientific supply stores.
