What equipement do i need as a beginner pc tech

[vallumlj]

I have just passed my comp a+ and wanted to start working as a pc tech from home. I just trying to buy everything i need. What do you think I would need.

I was thinking

Pc tool kit
Air dust Cans
xp service pack 3
Vista service pack 2
Ulimate boot cd
Malware and virus programs on cd
spare power lead
external hard drive How big should I buy?
spare psu
ddr 1 ,2 , 3 memory
spare dvd writer
spare monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Anything else

Thanks

 

[Emerald]

The external HDD I only use when backing up or recovering data, otherwise I use my 16GB flash drive. You have to decide if you want a power (power supply) or un-powered (NO power supply) external drive. As big as they come.

It would be nice to have a laptop; however, if you don't have one, I found it helpful to have a USB network card and a 10' patch-cord/network cable.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833129127


I had to reinstall XP and Vista, and it did not recognize the NIC. I used my USB NIC and downloaded the drivers.

Small Flashlight (MAGlight)

Linux LiveCD

How about a USB Hub, USB extension, USB printer cable, USB to USB Mini and USB Micro adapters, and USB flash drive.

Some other handy things
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812993024&cm_re=rj45_coupler-_-12-993-024-_-Product
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812107033&cm_re=rj45_cable-_-12-107-033-_-Product
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833127083&cm_re=5_port_switch-_-33-127-083-_-Product
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817801074&cm_re=kvm_switch_2_port-_-17-801-074-_-Product

 

[festerovic]

Spare router and a spare switch come in handy.

And a toothpick.

 

[Psychoteddy]

If you can, pick up a pair of RJ-45 Crimpers and learn how to make ethernet cable if you don't already. Buying bulk cable saves you and your customers a ton on cabling costs. You can get a 1000' box for around $100 USD.

Another BIG thing you'll want to get is a PSU tester. Very important. Saves a lot of time too.

I wouldn't use an external HDD, just get a 16GB flash drive (big enough to transport OS isos)

You will also definitely want a netbook to access router settings for your clients, download drivers/patches, etc for when your client's system cannot access the internet (happens frequently).

Wire cutters/strippers

Punchdown tool (if you're working with business networking)

Fox and hound (for line testing/location)

Line tester

You honestly don't NEED all of these things but they are definitely a part of a well-rounded toolkit. Pick them up as you need them.