Tools
Tools may refer to any of the following:
1. With software, tools (also known as toolkits) are libraries and other software that help software developers create programs more efficiently.
2. With hardware, tools enable a person to install, remove, or perform other actions on the components within their computer.
Tools for working on computers
The following list of tools is in order of importance, in our opinion. Ideally, any technician that goes onsite to repair or troubleshoot computers should have most, if not all of them. However, most situations don't require all of these tools at the same time. Therefore, we have broken the list into sections to help identify which tools you need for each job.
Must-have computer tools
- ESD strap or another ESD protection device
- Screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, and Torx screwdriver or bit
- Flashlight
When purchasing any screwdriver, avoid any screwdriver that uses magnets to hold in the tips. Instead, purchase screwdrivers that use ball bearings to hold in the tips.
Computer hardware replacement and repair tools
- Antistatic mat
- Precision screwdriver set
- Compressed air
- Multimeter
- Extra parts (e.g., power cable, network cable, keyboard, and mouse)
- Empty antistatic bags
- Lint-free cloth
- Low-wattage soldering iron, wick, and reel
- Wire cutter and stripper
- Tweezers or parts retriever
- Post card
- Temperature gun
- Toner probe
- Heat gun
- Spudger
Computer software troubleshooting
- USB jump drive with troubleshooting utilities and UBCD
- Blank CDs (for making restore discs or copying other information)
Other helpful computer tools and equipment
- AA and AAA batteries (for wireless mouse and keyboard)
- Crimping tool
- Portable vacuum cleaner
- Wattmeter
Computer cleaning tools
See our computer cleaning tools section on our cleaning page for a list of tools for cleaning your computer and computer hardware.
Tool kits
There are also computer tool kits that have all the necessary items for computer repair. However, most technicians find that a good screwdriver and other items listed above are enough for most repair jobs.
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