@zimzom.
That did gave me a good chuckle, but I believe the technical term for your words is "crazy-talk." I just can't imagine working without a basic store. Where's the fun in it?? Anyway, thank you for that!!
@everyone else, I should have put more thought into the OP. While I
do intend to
build a list from whatever you all suggest, in the back of my mind I was imagining something else. It's my fault, you're giving me what I asked for. Maybe some of you will understand what I'm getting at here: Wouldn't it be more fun, instead of sharing our lists for a well-stocked lab, we all shared our
favorite jellybeans. I doubt "resistors and ceramic disk caps" are anyone's "favorites." It kinda goes without saying that they are essential. From the collective list of
favorites an interesting list of parts could be
derived (and yes, I do mean that in the calculus sense!). For those of you who've generously shared your list of essentials, would your list of "favs" be the same? My guess is, "no."
I see how some of you talk about certain components. I see Dave talk about the 555 with affection in his voice and I believe, a little glint in his eye. It's obviously one of his favorites and I'd be shocked if he didn't have at least a dozen on hand at all times. I have a theory that you'd probably discover that part in half the home electronic labs across the globe. Given the millions of IC's currently available, I find that intriguing. I bought some 555's based on Dave's enthusiasm. I'm still trying to figure out just what the hell they do!! LOL... But that's the fun in learning. Right now, I just started playing with some LM2902's. I bought them months ago. Just like the 555's, I didn't know what they were for at the time. Soon, the 555 will find its way to my bench too.
But, don't think the lists you've all provided aren't gold to me. I'm reading through all you've provided and taking notes (filling my Mouser shopping cart is more like it)!! Great stuff!