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I was taking inventory of my tool bag today to see if I could get rid of anything (it's heavy :< ), and since I had the list typed up, I figured I'd make a post. I currently use a large laptop bag to haul my ultrabook and a bunch of kit around to client sites. The bag I use is an earlier version of this http://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Checkmate-Checkpoint-Friendly-Laptop/dp/B001GR363Y/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top Samsonite Checkmate bag. It works pretty well, but a lot of my tools don't really neatly fit into compartments, so it can get disorganized pretty easily. I've gotten more and more strict with myself on where and how I put in and take out gear, and strap down cables, etc - so it's better these days. Still though, I just put it on a scale out of curiosity - with my ultrabook it weighs 17.4lbs altogether.  I went to a tailor to get fitted for some shirts recently, and the tailor was like 'hummmm, that's odd. your left shoulder slumps about half an inch lower than your right - do you carry anything heavy on that shoulder often?' and I had to go to frown-town.  Anyways, here's what I got - 1 Each of : • Business Identity Materials (Business Cards, Brochures) • Pens, tape, etc. • Power Cable • 14ft + 5ft Cat5e Cables • SATA Cable • VGA->DVI Adapter • HMDI Cable • USB 2.0 Male->B Cable • USB Mini Cable • USB Micro Cable • IPhone Cable • Rosewill USB IDE/SATA HDD Adapter+Power • USB Mouse • Screen Cleaner • RJ45 Crimp Tool • Cable Cutter/Punchdown Tool • 16GB USB Drive + Virus Removal Tools • 54bit Ifixit Screwdriver Kit • Misc Screws • Scissors • Xacto Knife • RJ45/RJ11 Cable Tester • CD/DVD Case + Software • 500gb USB Mini Drive • Electrical Spray Lubricant • Compressed Air • CD/DVDRW USB Drive • DYMO Labelmaker 280 + Spare Tape Anyways, I think I use most all of that on a daily basis. The crimp tools and punchdown come out less often, but that's not a huge weight saver... what do you guys have in your kit? Any bag recommendations more specifically geared towards tech use?
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Jul 28, 2014 01:15
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| # ? Apr 26, 2024 21:35 |
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Did that silly ultrabook term ever catch on? God I hope not.
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Jul 28, 2014 02:25
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edit: wait this isnt yospos
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Jul 28, 2014 02:28
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I've got a cushy corporate gig, so I have tools at the office, but there are 2 things I always keep in my laptop bag. 1: Velcro Ties http://www.amazon.com/Velcro-Reusable-Self-Gripping-Inches-91140/dp/B001E1Y5O6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406509193&sr=8-1&keywords=velcro+ties 2: Quality small screwdriver set, this Wiha set is amazing. http://www.amazon.com/Wiha-26199-Sl...screwdriver+set I carry other stuff with me, but those are the 2 things I make sure I always have. They come in very handy.
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Jul 28, 2014 02:43
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That's a lot to use every day. My kit's scattered across my car and my bench, and most of it I only use occasionally. * Leatherman Wave. My Most Valuable Tool. It's my second one, since my first one started getting dull and the the small flathead screwdriver was chipped. The newer one has driver bits (already had to replace the tiny phillips/flathead one twice), but it's bulkier so it can't go as deep and gets in the way more often. * Craftsman magnetic drivers with hollow handles with a spinny plastic lid that lets you apply torque and pressure at the same time easily. Best screwdrivers I've used, although the shafts are bulky and can't get into narrow recesses. * Small USB keyboard/trackpad combo I got at Fry's for $20. So much nicer than dealing with mice, but have to turn off numlock to use half the keyboard properly. * IDE/SATA->USB dongle & power supply * SATA-USB/eSATA dock by Thermaltake * 8GB Cruzer (I really need to update this) * Variety of cables--USB, SATA, IDE, network * Ultimate Boot DVD * Ubuntu Live DVD * Windows Vista/7 install discs * Hammer * Box of nail-in cable guides * Velcro strapping * Velcro with adhesive backing * Heavy-duty RJ45/11 crimper with the 568a/b cheat scrawled in sharpie on the handle * Bag of RJ45 connectors * Bag of RJ45 jacks * Variety tub of zip ties * Box of zip tie holder things with adhesive backs and a screw hole * Small microfiber shammy * Scissors * Notepad & post-its * Boxcutter * Tape measure * Variety of screws and molly bolts * Hole saw * Dymo labelmaker * Soldering iron * Smartphone with dropbox, drive, and onedrive accounts * Surface RT * Box of Cat5e cable If I need to, I can grab a network cable tester, line tracer, and punchdown tool from work. I also have a Dremel set, a Ridgid power driver with a big bit set, and Ridgid reciprocating saw if I really need them.
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Jul 28, 2014 02:56
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skipdogg posted:
Wiha's are the only screwdrivers you will ever need, and never go back to anything else. USB drives are your friend, if you aren't the persuasion to create a multiboot SSD external I suggest investing in a bulk buy on 8gb/4gb usb keys. I havn't used a CD/DVD is ~5 years, often quicker to download and create a new key then deal with DVD corruption. Leatherman Skeletool, on goon suggestion, best tool I have ever bought. The tip filed to a flathead screwdriver, broke it off and have found it more useful as a screwdriver than a knife.
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Jul 28, 2014 05:07
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BlueBlazer posted:Wiha's are the only screwdrivers you will ever need, and never go back to anything else. looking at the waha - can I just stop and plug this Ifixit 54 bit kit I have in my bag real quick? https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Mac/54...q3-cxoCR_vw_wcB this motherfucker is like $25, only twice the size of my wallet, has a flexible extender thing for getting in tight spaces, and a torque slot so you can get just as much on a screw as you could with something 4x its size. I used it for a month, and then took all of my other screwdrivers/kits out of my bag.
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Jul 28, 2014 06:27
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Edit: I don't read so good at 1am Hows the quality on that kit? Do you find yourself needing all those bits? I haven't been in a situation where my 7pc screwdriver set hasn't been enough to do the job. Wiha tools are pricy but the quality is amazing, especially the heads of the Philips. Very nice German quality tools. skipdogg fucked around with this message at 07:09 on Jul 28, 2014 |
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Jul 28, 2014 07:06
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skipdogg posted:If you want. I can't speak to the quality of that kit but it's probably some cheap harbor freight quality crap. ? I mean, I'm saying I threw out every other toolkit / individual screwdriver in my kit, because this one works so well. I'm vouching for its quality. yeah maybe I like my individual screwdrivers better, or 'think they're better quality' - but this is neat, tidy, compact, and doesn't annoy me the way almost every other X in 1 screwdriver does. if you travel to client sites a lot, it's important to find a balance, unless you want to carry around 5lbs of screwdrivers.
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Jul 28, 2014 07:12
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a flask
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Jul 28, 2014 08:09
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text editor posted:a flask
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Jul 28, 2014 10:22
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mindphlux posted:looking at the waha - can I just stop and plug this Ifixit 54 bit kit I have in my bag real quick? https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Mac/54...q3-cxoCR_vw_wcB I bought a good amount of ifixit tools a while back, if you want this kit just get the pro tech toolkit, has awesome other tools and a nice bag. I can recommend everything from them, the quality is really nice, especially considering the prices.
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Jul 28, 2014 11:03
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Yeah, I picked up the 26-bit set when it was on $5 special for the holidays last year, and I feel like I got a real steal. No pentalobes, but there isn't a Mac in my life right now anyway.
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Jul 28, 2014 11:30
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Since I'm mostly in networking, I don't need to bother with carrying a bunch of software. My toolbox (apart from the obvious laptop): Network stuff: Cable tester and beeper USB->Serial adapter Cisco console cable The 5-in-1 network admin cable Ethernet loopback plug About half a dozen cables of various lengths. A few meters of of cat5 cable without connectors. Tools: Screwdrivers Side cutters Snap-off blade knife Crimp tool Punchdown tool Table knife - Great tool for any poking or prying you need to do. Cheap, durable and you don't care if it eventually gets bent or damaged. Pens and markers. Other: Velcro and plastic zip ties Cage nuts and screws. Cage nut installation tool Label maker with nylon tape for cables Pocket flask of whisky for those jobs.
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Jul 28, 2014 13:17
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Tools Fluke Network Analyzer and Toner wand Keystone crimper RJ11 and 45 Crimper Jacket stripper Auto Cable stripper Punchdown Snips Screwdrivers Power Injector(s) Multimeter Consumables Keystones Keystone mount - wallplate/box and surface mounts Various length CAT5 cables RJ45 heads Electrical tape Various sized electrical nut connectors DisplayPort-->DVI adapters DVI & VGA cable Thanks for making this thread-- Bossman just told me to make a list of any supplies we need since the fiscal year just renewed, so this should help me consider things I might not have thought about otherwise. CloFan fucked around with this message at 18:58 on Jul 28, 2014 |
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Jul 28, 2014 16:01
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mindphlux posted:? I mean, I'm saying I threw out every other toolkit / individual screwdriver in my kit, because this one works so well. I'm vouching for its quality. Yeah I misread your post..it was late. My brain processed that you were looking at buying those, not that you already owned them. To add additional content to the post, other things I keep in my bag. Portable USB charger Verizon MiFi A small zipper bag with all the different USB cables, and both Apple USB cables. AAA and AA batteries.
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Jul 28, 2014 17:04
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Screwdrivers for motherboard standoffs and hex screws. Saves so much time and hassle.
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Jul 28, 2014 18:22
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That's a lot of stuff I don't have in my bag but I should. Anyone have suggestions on the bag, though? I'm using the Black Box bag but it's starting to prove insufficient.
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Jul 28, 2014 19:38
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Jul 28, 2014 19:48
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I am a subcontractor so sometimes I am busy, or sometimes I have one job in a month that only takes me an hour. I got one of these suitcase tool boxes on Ebay for $50 w/ free pick-up http://www.sears.com/craftsman-military-ready-18inch-tool-cart-with-tsa/p-00959759000P but it's kinda big for the tools I need for most jobs. But it might come in handy if/when I go into avionics. Tools 13" Asus laptop - perfect size for field work rj45 cable tester mini phone line handset - never used but on my list of required tools RJ45 Crimper, RJ11 sometimes for DSL USB->Serial adapter Cisco console cable cross-over adapter extendable poles for running cable Punchdown Snips Side cutters Snap-off blade knife Screwdrivers Rubber Mallet cordless drill($44) Brother USB Label Maker was on sale for $20 Consumables Partial roll of Cat5e (usually for extending DSL circuits to a rack) Keystone jacks surface mount keystones (Biscuit Jack) Various length CAT5 cables RJ45 ends Electrical tape - various colors to differentiate cables Velcro and plastic zip ties - package of relatively big zip ties and package of various sizes I have a Wavetech cable validator if I ever need to make custom cat5e cables I need to buy a toner kit. Maybe Fluke? eventually need to get a decent Fluke network tester, but can't afford it now. rocket fucked around with this message at 20:13 on Jul 28, 2014 |
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Jul 28, 2014 19:59
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I have to deal with plenty of non-IT related stuff (like signage or displays around a monitor and computer, etc) so my bag is probably quite a bit different than these. Also tools get lost (ie stolen) on site so virtually all of it is harbor freight stuff. But for giggles, and because I honestly dont even know comprehensively anymore I decided to look - Zip ties - A regular 16 oz hammer - Wire strippers - Like a 200 piece (est, too many) security bit set - Scissors - Butter knife  amazingly useful - Plastic mallet - Wire cutters of various sizes - Pliers - Channelocks - Allen sets - Full range of basic sockets (with badass composite ratchet that has become my favorite of all) - Full regular sized screwdriver set - Really small one handed clamps (Irwin knock offs) - Magnet wand - Electrical tape - Gaff tape - 1/2" clear tubing (???) - Box cutter - Lighter - Small bit driver set similar to that ifixit one with flexible extension. Easily probably use this the most
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Jul 28, 2014 20:25
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I am new-ish to my current job - I am supposed to put all my tools on a shadow board, etch a serial number into them and check all is present and correct twice a day but I haven't got round to it yet... I do however just lock them in my backup safe until I get that sorted so I just have the usual array of screw drivers / phone gear / cable testers etc. I will also be buying a CCTV monitor and a security screw bit set as everything here has those annoying hex heads. The worst part of all the restrictions I work with is I'm not allowed unapproved USB devices on site (i.e. nothing without encryption) so I can't even have a boot disk on my keyring or anything like that
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Jul 28, 2014 20:38
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There's a few tools I've found on Ebay I want to buy Fluke Networks MT-8200-50A IntelliTone Pro 100 Toner and Probe Kit Pocket Microscope HD 720P Brand USB Endoscope Borescope Snake Scope Wire Camera Knipex 10" Adjustable Pliers
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Jul 28, 2014 21:10
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Leatherman Skeletool, covers about 80% of use case scenarios for me.
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Jul 28, 2014 22:37
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Multitool chat: I have a Gerber Diesel and it's basically the best. However, I don't work on any hardware for work, just at home. Edit: my work bag contains my laptop, a wireless hotspot, a micro usb cable, and a sweatshirt.  Double edit: and some beef jerky. Comradephate fucked around with this message at 22:58 on Jul 28, 2014 |
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Jul 28, 2014 22:55
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Collateral Damage posted:Since I'm mostly in networking, I don't need to bother with carrying a bunch of software. My toolbox (apart from the obvious laptop): this is great, I might do this. I used to carry around permutations of cables like this, but I rarely ever used them, so I just stopped. fixing up some adapters would totally let me carry everything I'd possibly need with a minimum of space. thanks for the link.
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Jul 29, 2014 05:46
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mindphlux posted:Still though, I just put it on a scale out of curiosity - with my ultrabook it weighs 17.4lbs altogether. I've seen a couple of guys using wheeled cases and it seems like a great way to save your back.  Plus, if you have a lot of boxes (say, a stack of keyboards), you can use it as a makeshift trolley.
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Jul 29, 2014 09:41
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I don't have this but some of my friends really like this http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817379025&cm_re=Zalman_drive-_-17-379-025-_-Product It basically allows you to put as many ISO's as your 2.5inch HDD can hold then boot from any one of them. It also allows you to double back it as a external USB drive for anything you want on it. The cheaper option is using a Fashdrive or external that has YUMI installed on it, both work the same way some just like the physical buttons
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Jul 29, 2014 14:54
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mindphlux posted:looking at the waha - can I just stop and plug this Ifixit 54 bit kit I have in my bag real quick? https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Mac/54...q3-cxoCR_vw_wcB Ordered a set this morning. I came from the high voltage wireman world so I have an extensive electrical toolkit, honestly nothing does a first impression better than having a well stocked toolkit, not so much for the client but for the surrounding contractors. If I may make a recommendation, Fluke Digital Toner, http://www.flukenetworks.com/datacom-cabling/copper-testing/IntelliTone-Pro-Toner-and-Probe about half the time I am on site someone f*** up a patch cable/punch down or need to tone a line to steal for a controls/security purpose toning out in a 500+ patch bay is tough with those analog toners everyone seems to have. Best toner I have ever owned and works magic every time, can even check for phone service/continuity so no need for a phone-set in your bag. Pricey but well worth the investment. And a professional suggestion, get a proper multi screwdriver. http://www.amazon.com/Klein-32500-Screwdriver-Driver-Cushion/dp/B0015SBILG IT folk are looked down in the contractor world, bust out actual trades tools and it amazing how much more friendly some guys are to work with. Mr. Clark2 posted:Leatherman Skeletool, covers about 80% of use case scenarios for me. And this.
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Jul 29, 2014 16:36
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Im really excited for my pockethernet, apparently they outsourced the pcb design and the company failed, so its delayed, their manufacturing timeframe is also very short, but the device is like a cheaper Fluke Nettool.
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Jul 29, 2014 18:54
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I can heartily recommend this as a functional screwdriver set: http://www-uk.wera.de/product_detail_uk.html?L=1&file=root_category_kraftform_kompakt_kraftform_kompakt_10_and_11_kk_10&lang=en-UK Although I will probably swap some of the flat bits out for hex ones at some point. The Powerdsine PoE tester is a great thing to have as well, if you can't afford a Fluke does-literally-everything tester. I've never found a better punch-down tool than a genuine ADC one, though they are reasonably pricey. I will also never go back to a cheap crimper after using a Paladin one. Thanks Ants fucked around with this message at 19:42 on Jul 29, 2014 |
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Jul 29, 2014 19:40
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As I said earlier, I have the Black Box bag. In the bag, though, I have:
Yes, I know some of those tools are duplicates. I should say that I don't own any of that - it's all my employer's.
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Jul 30, 2014 16:47
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Most everything I keep on me has already been mentioned, but I have 2 tool recommendations. A comfortable ratcheting screwdriver. Has a couple of the most common bits built in, but is compatible with the iFixit 54 Bit Driver Kit (using the 4 mm to 1/4" adapter) A very tiny multitool that I keep on my keychain. Has saved me a trip back to wherever I left my bag quite a few time. I need to sharpen the knife and the scissors are pretty bad but absolutely great for the total size of the thing.
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Jul 30, 2014 22:15
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I posted a full list of my backpack (main gear) plus various "go bags" for VoIP, etc. http://www.chasechristian.com/313/tech/my-backpack-with-bonus-car-trunk-action/ The top two items I recommend: Zalman DVD emulator (USB 3.0 enclosure that emulates a DVD-ROM so you can boot from ISO files you store on the drive in a special folder) Dualcomm USB-powered Gigabit network tap with PoE Passthrough (the very best for Wiresharking, powered by USB, gigabit speeds, works on phones/APs with PoE passthrough)
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Jul 30, 2014 22:23
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On the zip tie subject, these are worth the increased price over normal ties any day of the week: http://www.hellermanntyton.co.uk/site/products/cable-ties-inside-serrated/q18i/109-00120
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Jul 30, 2014 22:38
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Thanks Ants posted:On the zip tie subject, these are worth the increased price over normal ties any day of the week: Velcro. price has dropped 80% since 3 years ago. I buy it by the case of 100ft rolls locally and on larger jobs I end up spend about the same as I would on tie wraps, plus it's all reusable when you have to go back because a phone line/network drop got forgot about ruining all your nice cable porn. http://www.amazon.com/Eclipse-902-035-Hook-Loop-Tape/dp/B002PI6NM4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406768886&sr=8-1&keywords=velcro+roll+1%2F2
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Jul 31, 2014 02:10
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BlueBlazer posted:Velcro. price has dropped 80% since 3 years ago. I buy it by the case of 100ft rolls locally and on larger jobs I end up spend about the same as I would on tie wraps, plus it's all reusable when you have to go back because a phone line/network drop got forgot about ruining all your nice cable porn. yeah, I can't imagine using ziptie unless you're pretty sure nothing will change for a couple years.
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Jul 31, 2014 10:27
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mindphlux posted:yeah, I can't imagine using ziptie unless you're pretty sure nothing will change for a couple years. I bought some cheap velcro and after a couple of months in warm weather, it delaminated into two strips: hooks and loops.
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Jul 31, 2014 10:54
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I was aiming that more at tieing cables down behind patch panels, a 24 way panel with Cat6 punched in is a bit tight for velcro (which won't stop the cables pulling out the IDC terminations) and too fiddly for normal closed head zip ties to not be frustrating.
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Jul 31, 2014 11:53
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| # ? Apr 26, 2024 21:35 |
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mindphlux posted:yeah, I can't imagine using ziptie unless you're pretty sure nothing will change for a couple years. I prefer velcro ties for cable bundling, but I will use zip ties for things that need a tighter or more permanent fit, like securing power cables so they don't accidentally get yanked out (Someone make a latching IEC 60320 C13 connector thanks in advance) ^ securing cables to punch down panels is another good use for zip ties where velcro doesn't cut it.
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Jul 31, 2014 12:03
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