Action Steps
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Start with a few basic electric parts key terms and explanations to learn about electronics

Whether you're dealing with resistors, transistors, amplifiers or another electronic part it's helpful to have a basic knowledge, recognize parts and their use. Start here with a broad overview of names and components like semiconductors and capacitors used to amplify and control voltage and current.

I recommend: Babylon explains the definition of "electronic component" with all kinds of highlighted deep links of specific key terms like "electric circuit," "radio receiver," "amplifier" and "oscillator." Look at definitions and explanations of key terms for electronic components at Babylon. There's a short but Answers.com defines electronic components with highlighted key term links that allow you to dig deeper in your research.

Delve deeper into electronic component key terms with semiconductors, transistors and thyresistors

Some terms in electronics are heard today more than others. Semiconductor is one such term, and transistors and a newer term thyresistor. Probably because these are computer hardware components and they helped revolutionize computers by making everything much smaller.

I recommend: Read about semiconductors and transistors at Webopedia. Learn about thyresistor at Bitpipe, a type of semiconductor. Thyresistors use three electrodes--the gate, cathode and anode. Components like the thyresistor have made possible much of the new technology we see on the market today.

Learn about other specific electronic hardware terms like resistors, transistors and PCBs

If you want to learn more about electronics components key terms, visit local electronic component vendors and learn more. Take one of your electronic gadgets or toys apart and see how it works.

I recommend: Learn about basic transistor circuits using resistor and transistor electronic components at play-hookey.com. The detailed and thorough glossary at Triangle Circuits covers specific key terms for PCBs.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Go to electronic parts vendors and hobbyists sites to find out electronic components work. Play around with low voltage wires and LEDs and see what you can make, create or light up.

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Navigate the easiest to use parts lists for electronic parts and hardware

Manufacturing industries need electronic components supply chains from global electronic parts vendors. If you have old parts, don't throw them away. You can find spare parts, new or used, from some of the easiest to use interactive parts lists on the web. Full featured lists of electronic parts are becoming more user-friendly, and the web pages featuring these lists is more interactive than ever.

I recommend: Find electronic components easily with an online parts list and easy-to-use interface from Digi-Key. Check out some great distributor parts lists, such as IBS Electronics.

Sell old and obsolete electronics parts to the electronic parts market

The electronic parts market is full of independent stocking and franchised electronic component distributors and electronic component vendors. When components become obsolete, you don't have to throw them away.

I recommend: Sell your leftovers to Freelance Electronics, the electronic components marketplace with a proven track record for pricing good deals. You can also partner with an electronics recycling organization such as MyBoneyard.

Find electronic parts vendors for computer hardware components

PCB design services should include complete IC Sockets, a good warranty, and excellent customer service. Get great deals for do-it-yourself computer hardware components from the experts on electronic computer components. The Geek Store is full of great deals on computer components and electronics for electronics enthusiasts.

I recommend: Purchase an electronic parts service for your printed circuit boards or electronic hardware from sellers who take the time to explain their products and services in a clear and concise manner, such as TurboElectronics, Inc.. For the do-it-yourself installation of computer electronic hardware, mega memory, and other types of circuit boards, dive into the deals at Geeks.com.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Avoid long lines and shipping costs. Order online and pick up at the store or distributor's outlet.

1. Many training programs are available through trade schools and colleges that allow you to learn more about electronics parts and how they operate.
   
2. Workshops, conferences and continuing education classes can help refresh and expand your knowledge of electronics components.
3. Find more information from electronic parts manufacturers and vendors.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a certified electronics hardware technician

Courses in electronics hardware are available from most vocational colleges and trade schools as well as traditional colleges. This type of training works best if you need a firm grounding in the general field, as opposed to learning one facet of the industry. Courses usually cover hardware maintenance, installation and in some cases, creation. Depending on what type of electronics you plan to work in, additional specialized classes may be available as well.

I recommend: Get enrolled in classes to become an electronics hardware technician at George Brown College or the ITT Technical Institute.

Attend conferences and workshops to improve your electronic component knowledge

Some PCB component vendors and electronic component distributors offer conferences, workshops and trade shows to providing continuing education opportunities to your company's workforce. These extra training and informational sessions can help keep your employees updated on how to use the latest technology. Attending workshops and trade shows is also an excellent way to learn more about areas which are not your specialty for little or no cost.

I recommend: Learn more about events at the Components Technology Institute, or check out the website for the International Electronic Components Trade Show.

Find more information about electronic hardware online

Occasionally, electronic parts vendors and hardware manufacturers release class materials, online classes or information packets about their products. In addition to these sources, you can find a lot of information about electronic component repair, replacement and construction online. You'll find everything from step-by-step repair guides and projects to online tips and tricks for electronics construction.

I recommend: Get manufacturer information modules online from Digi-Key, or check out the Troubleshooting and Repair of Consumer Electronics Equipment to learn repair and replacement techniques.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Electronic components Education and training is a huge field with many different applications. Some jobs require specialized training in specific types of hardware repair or maintenance. This type of information is often learned though on-the-job training.