It's never fun when you show up to work on a computer and you don't have the right tools. Unfortunately, this has happened to me a lot. With the experience I have gained, I would like to show you what you need to assemble the ultimate tech toolkit so you are always prepared to fix a computer.

When assembling your toolkit, you don't have to use the exact same products that I have listed below. There are other comparable products by other manufacturers that might differ in quality and price. However, these are the products that I like and recommend to use when assembling your new tech toolkit from scratch.

 

Rosewill 45-Piece Premium Computer Tool Kit - This kit includes an assortment of the most standard tools you will need to repair a computer. It includes a Reversible Ratchet Driver with 20 different sized bits, 6" Phillips Screwdriver, Reversible 1/ 8” Mini Screwdriver, 9 Hex Key Set, 5" Long Nose Pliers, 5" Wire Cutter / Stripper, IC Insertion-Extraction Clipper, Three Prongs Holder, Tweezers, Spare Parts Box with parts, Anti-Static Wrist Strap, and a Black Zipper Case. All tools are demagnetized to prevent systems and magnetic media from damage. Available via Newegg.com.

 

Rosewill Network Tool Kit - This kit includes all the tools you will need for making and testing network cables. It comes with a Cable Stripper, Crimper, Punch Down Tool, RJ11/RJ45 Cable Tester, Modular Plugs, Plug Boots, and Screwdriver with Bits. Available at Newegg.com.

 

Vantec SATA/IDE to USB 2.0 Adapter - This adapter allows you to hook any SATA or IDE hard drive up to through USB. It requires no case so you can hook up drives and transfer data in a hurry. It is also very useful when performing upgrades and needing to transfer files from an old hard drive to a new one. Available at Newegg.com.

 

Nspire Power Supply Doctor - This tester allows you to test power supplies to see if they are working properly. You can use it to test 20Pin or 24Pin Power Supply Connectors, P4 Power Connectors, Molex Connectors, Floppy Power Connectors, and S-ATA Power Connectors. You can also check out my article on how to use one. Available at multiple vendors through Google Product Search.

 

BYTECC USB to PS2 Adapter - Since most manufacturers are moving to USB connections for keyboards and mice, it's good to have a way to connect PS/2 devices up to new computers. This adapter does just that. Available at Newegg.com.

 

LED Magnetized Telescopic Rescue Stick - Easily retrieve dropped screws with this telescopic rescue stick. And the best part is that it has a built in LED light that turns on when the stick is extended. Available via ThinkGeek.com.

 

ColdHeat Pro Soldering Iron - It's true that us techs do not get to solder as much as we used to but when we do, we need to have the proper equipment. The ColdHeat Pro Soldering Iron is a cordless soldering iron that heats or cools instantly. It comes with a polycarbonate carrying case, work space light, and activation light. It is powered by 5 AA batteries. Available via ColdHeat.com.

 

Victorinox SwissMemory - What's a Swiss Army Knife without a USB flash drive is what I always say. With this tool, not only do you get a blade, nailfile with screwdriver, scissors, ballpoint pen, and LED flashlight, but you also get your choice of a 512MB, 1GB, or 2GB USB flash drive. And since you have a flash drive, you might as well load it up with 35 Portable Applications That Every Tech Needs. Available via SwissArmy.com.

 

Roll-Up Keyboard - Because you never know when you are going to need a keyboard, you should always be prepared. The roll-up keyboard is perfect for fitting into tight places like your tool bag. It features a standard QWERTY layout along with 104 keys. Available via ThinkGeek.com.

 

BELKIN 7-in-1 Retractable Cable Travel Pack - Don't you hate carrying around all of those cables. With the 7-in-1 Retractable Cable Travel Pack, you can easily manage all of your cables in one place. It features USB cables and adapters for A Male, A Female, B Male, 4-Pin Mini-B Male, 5-Pin Mini-B Male, It also features RJ11 and RJ45 cables with a RJ45 crossover cable adapter. Available via Newegg.com.

 

Western Digital Passport - You need a place to store all of your tech tools. You also need a way to transfer large files. The Passport is perfect for the job. It is completely powered by the USB 2.0 interface so no external power source is required. And the best part is that it can fit in the palm of your hand. You have the choice of a 60GB, 80GB, 120GB, 160GB, 250GB or 320GB. Available via Newegg.com.

 

Proporta Gadget Bag - With all of those tools you will need a bag with lots of storage space to carry them in. The Gadget Bag consists of four compartments that can seperate into four smaller bags or connect together to form one large bag. This comes in real handy when you only need certain tools and don't want to lug the rest around with you. There is even a model with a built-in USB Mobile Device Charger. Available via Proporta.com.