Sometimes old tools are better.

Published at : 18 Dec 2025

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My Dad helped me build this new electronics workbench. What makes it tick? What else will we add? And how can YOU help me make it the most efficient workbench for electronics, computing, and radio work?

Check out the workbench build video over on Geerling Engineering: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JV1Iv9bXkdI

Some of the items on the bench that we referenced (some links are affiliate links):

- Siglent SDM3055 5.5 Digit Multimeter: https://amzn.to/3WJ5WRU
- Siglent SPD3303X DC Power Supply: https://amzn.to/3UIH3mL
- Tektronix MSO 4104B Oscilloscope: https://www.tek.com/en/datasheet/mso4000b-dpo4000b-series-mixed-signal-oscilloscope-datasheet
- Iso-Tip Cordless Soldering Iron 7700: https://iso-tip.com/product/quick-charge-soldering-iron-kit-7700
- Iso-Tip Cordless Soldering Iron 8000: https://iso-tip.com/product/iso-tip-power-pro-advanced-cordless-soldering-iron-kit-model-8000
- Weller WES51 Soldering Station: https://amzn.to/4ak77KJ
- Pinecil Mini Soldering iron: https://amzn.to/3QM1lKU
- Hakko FX-901/P Soldering iron: https://amzn.to/3V48id6
- ATEngeus Compressed Air Duster: https://amzn.to/44PKhtl
- Aven 17010 Adjustable Circuit Board Holder: https://amzn.to/3ynXXQi
- SE Helping Hands with Magnifying Glass: https://amzn.to/44GY9Gt
- Quick 861DW Hot Air Station: https://amzn.to/3K862Lz
- Amaran F21x video light: https://amzn.to/3wD9SZU
- ESD Mat: https://www.ebay.com/itm/272769915697

Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/geerlingguy
Sponsor me on GitHub: https://github.com/sponsors/geerlingguy
Merch: https://redshirtjeff.com
2nd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCsd6hP-zzIkCpw8XGw7Osyw
3rd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCzgA9CBrIXPtkB2yNTTiy1w

Contents:

00:00 - The ideal workspace
00:45 - A good tool lasts 50 years
03:15 - Why don't soldering irons have lights?
05:27 - Some things change, some things don't
06:28 - Tools for electronics
07:32 - Bench philosophy and more tools
09:07 - Soldering safety?
10:16 - Lighting and a monitor arm
10:43 - A new place for merch
11:40 - Dad stumps Jeff with retro hipster tool
14:35 - A little fire for your wire
15:47 - How much bandwidth could you cram in 25 wires?