Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Offline Sources
You may find that you need a component immediately, and even next-day delivery would not be
soon enough. Or you may only need a single resistor or a small length of wire and can't justify a
high delivery cost or minimum order value for one of the online retailers. Thankfully, there are
brick-and-mortar stores that specialise in electronic components. Although there are not as many
of these types of stores as in previous decades, most major towns and cities will include at least
one physical shop that stocks the most commonly required tools and components.
In the UK, the most popular chain of electronic component shops is Maplin Electronics.
Established in Essex in 1972, the company has grown from a small mail-order outlet to
include 187 stores across the UK. Inhabitants of most cities will find themselves within reach
of a Maplin Electronics store, which can be a handy source of hardware if you're running low
on common parts.
Maplin Electronics also offers a mail-order and click-and-reserve service through its website,
but beware its
business-to-consumer
focus. Many components are significantly more expen-
sive when ordered from Maplin than from RS Components or Premier Farnell, because the
company relies on mark-up rather than high-volume trade to make a profit.
In the US and other countries, Radio Shack remains the most popular chain of electronics
stores. Founded in 1921 and boasting over 7,150 stores across the world, the company
stocks a wide selection of common electronic components and tools that can be purchased in
person or ordered for delivery through its website.
As with Maplin Electronics in the UK, Radio Shack is a
business-to-consumer
operation. As a result,
buyers can expect to pay more for components purchased at Radio Shack than the same parts
ordered from RS Components or Farnell. However, the large number of Radio Shack stores make
it a convenient choice for buyers who are in a hurry or who are looking for one-off items.
Both Maplin and Radio Shack also have the advantage of being staffed by people to whom
you can speak. Many employees of both companies have significant knowledge in electron-
ics, and are happy to offer advice and assistance if you're unsure of what parts you need for a
given project. The websites for both retailers can be found here:
Maplin Electronics:
http://www.maplin.co.uk
Radio Shack:
http://www.radioshack.com
Hobby Specialists
In addition to the major chains, there are smaller companies that specialise in working with
hobbyists. Although their selection is dwarfed by those of the larger chains, it's typically hand-
picked and comes with the personal recommendation of the people behind the company.
