mongomad1's Full Review: Fellowes Premium 30-Piece Tool Kit (49097)
First, I think it may be said that just because someone has a PC does not mean (s)he must have this or any other computer-specific tool kit. However, if you are the type that wants to learn, already has the knowledge and uses standard tools to do the job or if you would like to make life easier on a trusted friend that regularly works on your PC, this is not a bad investment at all.
So, you can easily get by without one, but it certainly is not a waste for anyone to have one of these around just in case you encounter an issue, have someone around to fix it, but not the proper tools. Plus, several of the items included are multi-purpose so that other, common chores can utilize some of the tools.
Do not be Afraid!
There are many sites on the world wide web that will help you as far as do-it-yourself. Computer repair shops are NOTORIOUS when it comes to adding in charges based on the fact you do not understand them. There are some that are very conscientious, so if you have one that has treated you right, or own one, please do not take offense. Especially if you take an item in to be upgraded that you purchased, you have the power and ability to do it or someone you trust will do it free or little compensation, dependent on your relationship.
Crack your case and look around in there. You do not need to know HOW it does things, just WHAT the components look like and do. Again, many websites offer free advice and your local computer retailer may offer classes that are inexpensive. Remember, you should be cracking your case several times a year for cleaning, anyway. Can you break things and completely ruin your PC? Possibly, but usually there is an affordable fix as long as you do not dump acid in it!
What uses will This Kit afford Me?
With the tools you have, you can upgrade your equipment by adding compatible devices in the open slots your motherboard may have, easily make adjustments, based on the manufacturer’s instructions, for pulling jumpers on components like slave drives and placing them in the correct spots. Jumpers control an electrical connection that makes a device work somewhat differently based on a configuration you desire. The pieces are TINY and easily dropped/difficult to find, so the included reverse action tweezers can REALLY come in handy.
If you lose one of the standard screws that locks down cards that you firmly, yet gently, place into the various, available slots after removing the metal piece covering the hole in the back, you have extras in this set. They are in what looks like a pill container and has several compartments for different sizes as well as jumpers and other tiny things you need to keep up with for future use.
What all is Included?
You get a ratcheting screwdriver with a nice, soft rubber grip and its use is decided by the bit you put in the tip. There is a red, soft plastic sleeve that has round holes to put the bits in that are not in use. In addition to various sizes for Phillips(2) / flathead(2), you also get Torx bits (T8, T10 and T15) and 4mm and 6mm metric sockets to remove bolts. Nearly all PC's use these standard sizes and most bolts also have screwdriver slots, typically Phillips. Should you strip the screwdriver slots of the bolt to where you can no longer remove it, just apply the bit that fits the bolt and you are back in action.
The ratcheting screwdriver has forward and reverse settings, though it is not electric, and it has a setting to disengage the ratcheting feature so that it will screw both ways like a standard screwdriver. Speaking of standard screwdrivers, you also get a 3/16” Phillips and flathead of the same size. The ratcheting is still far more useful because in addition to ratcheting, it also bends near the bottom to get into those places where you do not have a straight shot.
A great little inclusion are the standard size screws in the pill case type container where you also get small washers, jumpers and screws of other sizes. A handy flashlight that will clip on your case to illuminate holes, lettering and slots also makes for a huge added value of this set. Even in decent light, shadows make tiny writing and tiny spots difficult to see.
If you need to grab something in a narrow spot, you have 3 different sized claw part retrievers. You push the end, metal hooks protrude until you get to the piece you need to pick up, release the button and it brings it up held securely. In the event you come across a wireless mouse and/or keyboard, you have 2 AA batteries to replace old ones that are dead. Also included, are a small brush that will gently clean any messes made or that existed prior to your work, a diagonal wire stripper and a pair of needle nose pliers.
For those that are fresh out of training for A Plus certification (I am a card carrying member), there is also an antistatic wrist band. This prevents static electricity from passing from your fingers to the delicate, electronic components on the motherboard. If you keep grounded by having one hand on the case at all times, this is eliminated and you do not feel silly wearing the wrist-band. I apologize to ANYONE that firmly believes in them, but I have yet to fry anything based on not using one.
My Use
Generally, I use the ratchet screwdriver the most, along with its attachments and it is quite handy for removing, replacing and adding hardware. The carrying case itself is well-designed to be compact yet include all the items you need close at hand. I did use all the surface wipes it comes with which are good for cleaning even LCD monitors.
It is portable, for sure, in the event you have to make a house call for someone else. There is nothing more frustrating than knowing how to resolve an issue and not having the tools to get it done.
The flashlight apparatus works well, but I really prefer a mini Mag Light as they are a bit brighter. Still, the included version is handy when you need a steady beam to the same place for a period of time. I have employed all but the anti-static wrist strap plus the diagonal wire stripper and they work well performing the action for which each was designed to handle and many they were not!
It really pays for itself quickly in the time you save by having the right tools for the job versus making do with your other tool collection. Just ensure you put everything back after each use or you will be bitter hunting down the small Phillips head bit.
Quality of Tools and Looks
All the screw drivers are solid as well as the various bits. The long nose pliers are certainly finely crafted as well as the wire stripper. I have used them often, banged them down on accident and on purpose and have not had the first issue with them bending or losing any functionality.
The part grabbers, which I rarely use, are plastic and could be broken easily, it would seem. Treating them gently and ensuring the case is not under a pile of heavy items reduces this risk immensely. The case itself, though it has a few scuffs, has held up very well despite it being made of vinyl and not leather.
The case is black and looks a bit like leather, though she is not going to win any fashion awards. The parts themselves look and are rugged with the exception of those listed above. I could not imagine getting much more quality for the price, nor do I feel the need to pay extra to get tougher tools since these do the job as well as I need it done!
Specs
Package Contents:
30-Piece Computer Tool Kit
3 Claw Parts Retriever
Reversible Action Tweezers
1/8" Flathead bit
3/16" flathead screwdriver (long handle)
3/16" flathead bit
#1 Philips screwdriver (long handle)
Fully Flexible Ratchet Driver (three-way latch)
Torx driver bits (T8, T10, T15)
PC Adapter bit for ratchet driver
4mm and 6mm (1.4") slotted bits
#0 and #2 Philips bits
2-in-1 combo nut sockets bit holder
Flashlight with clip
2 x AA batteries
Antistatic/antishock wrist band
Diagonal wire stripper
Long-nose pliers
Small brush
Spare parts and container
BONUS: four surface wipes. Durable zippered storage case
The case weighs less than two pounds when fully loaded with its gear and is black vinyl.
They are made in Taiwan.
If this review was informative, please feel free to visit my other Computer Hardware reviews:
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