Forrest M. Mims III

Forrest M. Mims III is an American science author, researcher and electronics pioneer who has written more than 60 books on electronics and scientific topics. His electronics books and mini-notebooks, particularly those published by RadioShack, have sold millions of copies and helped introduce a generation to electronics experimentation and engineering concepts. Mims developed his expertise without formal engineering credentials, learning electronics during his service in the U.S. Air Force in the Vietnam War. He went on to become a highly respected author of educational electronics materials and scientific papers, with his work appearing in Nature, Science, Scientific American and other leading publications. Beyond electronics, Mims has made significant contributions to atmospheric science through his research on UV radiation, ozone and air quality using homemade instruments. His scientific work earned him a Rolex Award for Enterprise in 1993, and in 2008 he was named one of the "50 Best Brains in Science" by Discover Magazine. His most enduring impact has been through his clear, hand-drawn electronics books that explain complex concepts through careful illustrations and straightforward writing. The "Engineer's Mini-Notebook" series and "Getting Started in Electronics" remain influential references that have helped countless hobbyists and professionals enter the field of electronics.

Readers consistently praise Mims' clear hand-drawn diagrams and ability to explain complex electronics concepts in simple terms. His books, especially "Getting Started in Electronics," receive strong appreciation from beginners who found other electronics texts too intimidating. What readers liked: - Hand-drawn illustrations that make concepts easy to grasp - Step-by-step explanations suitable for self-teaching - Practical projects that work as described - Durable knowledge that remains relevant decades later What readers disliked: - Some found the hand-drawn format too basic compared to modern textbooks - Limited depth on theory and mathematics - Older component specifications in earlier editions - Print quality issues in some recent reprints Ratings across platforms: - Amazon: 4.7/5 average across his books (>1000 reviews) - Goodreads: 4.3/5 for "Getting Started in Electronics" (>500 ratings) Reader quote: "Mims' illustrations and explanations gave me the confidence to start building circuits when I was 12. Thirty years later, I still reference his books." - Amazon reviewer

Getting Started in Electronics - Step-by-step introduction to electronic components and circuit construction with hand-drawn illustrations and 100 projects.

Engineer's Mini-Notebook series - Collection of small reference books covering topics like timer ICs, optoelectronics, communication circuits, and sensor projects.

Science and Communication Circuits and Projects - Compilation of electronic projects focused on scientific measurement and data communication applications.

Environmental Science with Arduino and Raspberry Pi - Instructions for building environmental monitoring devices using microcontrollers and sensors.

LED Projects and Experiments - Collection of practical projects utilizing light-emitting diodes in various electronic applications.

Timer, Op Amp & Optoelectronic Circuits & Projects - Technical guide featuring circuits using timing devices, operational amplifiers, and optical components.

Electronics Formulas, Symbols & Circuits - Reference manual containing essential electronics equations, component symbols, and basic circuits.

Digital Logic Projects - Project book focused on building and understanding digital logic gates and combinational circuits.

Radio-Electronics Guide to Short-wave Listening - Practical guide to shortwave radio reception and equipment.

103 Projects for Electronics Experimenters - Collection of hands-on electronics projects ranging from basic to advanced applications.

Charles Platt writes electronics project books focused on hands-on learning and practical circuit building. His Engineering Know-How series covers component fundamentals and experimental methods similar to Mims' approach.

Paul Horowitz authored The Art of Electronics, which explains electronic concepts with clear examples and real-world applications. His writing emphasizes understanding core principles through direct experimentation.

Simon Monk creates project-based guides for microcontrollers and electronic prototyping platforms. His books bridge basic electronics with modern maker technologies through step-by-step instructions.

Craig Anderton writes about electronic music technology and DIY audio projects. His work combines electronics theory with practical applications in music and sound production.

Gordon McComb produced numerous electronics and robotics books aimed at hobbyists and experimenters. His Robot Builder's Bonanza series shares Mims' focus on accessible projects and clear technical illustrations.