Elenco Electronics EP-130, Manual

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Welcome to the exciting world of electronics! The
Elenco
® EP-130 Electronic Playground Kit may be
your first experience in electronics. This manual
describes 130 different experiments you can perform
with your kit. We have included everything that you
need for all of the experiments (except the batteries).
As you read this manual and complete the
experiments, you will notice that we’ve organized the
projects and information in a logical sequence. We’ll
have you start with simple circuits and work toward
more complex ones. Take your time and have fun.
You can assemble all of the projects without
soldering because each component is connected to
spring terminals. A wiring sequence is included with
each project, so all you have to do to build a working
project is connect wires between the terminals listed
in the wiring sequence. We have provided plenty of
pre-cut, insulated wire. All of the projects are
powered by low voltage batteries, so there is none of
the danger associated with using standard AC
voltages.
Simple, clearly-written instructions help you operate
and experiment with each project. A diagram called a
schematic is included with later projects. A
schematic is an electronics blueprint that shows how
various components are wired together. Each
component has its own schematic symbol. The
symbols for the various components in your lab kit
are printed next to each component.
You’ll notice that we often refer to a Volt / Ohm Meter
(VOM) for making measurements. A VOM, or
multimeter, is a device that measures voltage,
current (amperes or amps), and resistance (ohms -
Ω
). We will tell you more about these later. If you are
going to understand electronic circuits, it is important
that you learn to measure circuit values - for only
then can you really begin to understand electronic
circuitry.
So, we recommend that you invest in a VOM with a
sensitivity reading of 20,000
ohms-per-volt or more.
Ohms-per-volt is a rating for the sensitivity of the
device (the higher the rating, the more sensitive the
meter).
You don’t have to use a VOM to build the
experiments, but you’ll find it will help you to better
understand how the circuits work. A VOM is a basic
test instrument and it is an excellent investment -
you’ll always want and need one as long as you stay
interested in electricity and electronics.
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BEFORE WE BEGIN
Your kit requires six (6) “AA” batteries. Install the
batteries in the compartment at the back of your kit.
Be sure to install them correctly according to the (+)
and (–) markings inside the compartment. The (+)
end of a battery is the one with the small metal cap.
Note: Whenever you are not using your kit, remove
the batteries. Never leave weak or dead batteries in
your kit - they can leak damaging chemicals, even if
they are “leak-proof” type batteries. This is a good
habit to get into for all battery-operated products.
INSTALLING THE BATTERIES
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