This post describes the basic toolkit and field accessories that we used to build the Maker Boat Basic and to solve problems in the field. Sophisticated tools are not required to build or maintain the Maker Boat Basic and everything shown here can be found easily online or in your local hardware store. Links to each tool are provided, but some of the original tools are 10+ years old so the items in the links might be slightly different from the tools in the picture. Let us know if you find something better!
Basic Toolkit
If you are just starting out, or if you are looking to complete your toolkit, consider adding the tools in the list below to your workshop. Most of these tools are small, so you can also bring them in the field to make minor repairs. I modified this PC repair toolkit to fit my needs. The zippered case has taken a beating over the years, but it still works incredibly well. Here’s a complete list of everything pictured above.
- Wire strippers
- Reversible ratchet driver with 21 piece bit and socket set
- Imperial hex key set
- Metric hex key set
- Three-prong holder
- Tweezers
- Small Philips, flat-head, and T-15 screwdrivers
- X-Acto knife and spare blades
- Scissors
- Mini needle nose pliers and wire cutters from this Craftsman set
- Klein Tools step bit
- Digital calipers
- Mini hacksaw
- File
- Digital multimeter
- Safety glasses
- Mechanix Mpact work gloves (check your size)
- DeWalt cordless drill
Field Accessories
When deploying the Maker Boat Basic, or conducting other research activities in the field, I usually bring most of the tools that I use in my workshop, as well as the accessories in this picture. Everything in the picture above fits easily in the zippered pouch. I have multiple plug adapters so I can recharge all my devices no matter where I might find myself. Spare USB 3.0 and USB micro cables make sure I can backup my data on external drives and charge my phone. I also carry a spare FTDI USB to serial cable because you never know when you might need to troubleshoot a serial device.
Keeping notes of problems, Mavlink error messages, weather conditions, and other pertinent information is an important part of building and testing open source robots. Long, wet days on the water require a tough, waterproof notebook and Rite in the Rain notebooks have never let me down (just don’t forget a pencil or two).
I wear a multi-tool on my hip in most places, but make sure the folding blade is legal in your area before you buy it. When working early in the morning or into the evening I bring along a headlamp and some spare batteries. A lighter and some electrical tape round out the accessory kit. I strongly recommend a small towel or two to dry your hands before handling electronics.
Storage
Deploying the Maker Boat Basic often requires working in wet environments and changing weather conditions. Use a waterproof backpack to keep your gear safe and dry and your hands free. I purchased the 30L dry bag in the picture above several years ago and has held up very well. My laptop, tools and accessories, X9 Lite, and lunch/snacks fit with room to spare. The exterior pockets can easily accommodate both my 40 oz Klean Kanteen and my 1L Nalgene water bottles. Aqua Quest discontinued the model in the picture, but its replacement looks even better.
Ready to build?
Use the quick start guide to start building your Maker Boat Basic!