TestEquipment

The goal is not to have all of the test equipment, or none, but to have the right test equipment.

Footprint is important. You will want to spend some time thinking about Storage. Try to get equipment that has a digital interface, so that you can automate your setup.

Specific Equipment

DVM

Density = Mass over Volume. Are you dumb?

• https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/ppmgeek!-5-5-digit-dvm-volt-ref-cal-(for-arduino-or-any-uc-w-spi)/ - DIY 5.5 DVM. I haven't dug through this yet.

Vector Network Analyzers

• https://theamphour.com/533-microwave-measurement-with-joel-dunsmore/ Amp Hour 533 "Cables are Dogs". Dogs, and VNAs huh...? ugh. There is a book written by this fellow that would be worth reading if you are working with a VNA. As noted in the podcast, the first couple chapters are theory, the second half(?) of the book is solving practical problems.
• https://www.eevblog.com/forum/rf-microwave/inexpensive-cal-standards/ - Notes on cals for VNAs.
• https://www.eevblog.com/forum/rf-microwave/how-to-measure-vswr-of-tiny-antennas-how-to-eliminate-effect-of-vna-cables/ - calibrating with antennas

Curve Tracer

Don't buy one without GPIB. Useless for documentation.

Tips/Techniques

Consider Digital Interfaces for All Equipment

If you want to get serious work done, you are probably going to want to script or automate your setup. So beware of old Bench DMMs, function gens, and other equipment that doesn't have at least a GPIB interface.

Output of equipment at 0 Volts

• https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/itech-it6121-precision-power-supply-always-display-a-tiny-reading/msg5424086/#msg5424086 Equipment is not guaranteed to output 0 volts, unless specified.

Try to Support Local Businesses

If there is a vendor of a tool or TE near you, then buy from them.