Getting Started in Electronics

Getting Started in Electronics is a hand-written and illustrated guide that introduces readers to electronic components, circuits, and fundamental concepts. Written by engineer and author Forrest M. Mims III, the book contains over 100 pages of clear diagrams and explanations. The text progresses from basic electrical principles through components like resistors, capacitors, and transistors to complete working circuits. Each concept is presented with hand-drawn schematics, graphs, and notes that demonstrate practical applications. This instructional manual has served as an entry point for electronics hobbyists and students since its initial publication in 1983. The straightforward presentation style and focus on hands-on learning make complex topics accessible to beginners. The book reflects a core belief that electronics can be understood through direct experimentation and observation rather than pure theory. Its enduring influence stems from its ability to demystify electronic concepts while maintaining technical accuracy.

Readers call this a clear introduction to electronics basics, with hand-drawn illustrations that make complex concepts accessible. Many cite it as their first electronics book that sparked their interest in the field. Liked: - Hand-drawn diagrams and notes feel personal and easy to follow - Builds concepts progressively from simple to complex - Projects can be completed with basic components - Durable spiral binding lies flat while working Disliked: - Some sections feel dated (published 1983) - Limited depth on modern electronics/microcontrollers - A few readers note minor errors in component values - Projects use older components that can be hard to find Ratings: Amazon: 4.7/5 (2,800+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (1,100+ ratings) One reader noted: "The hand-drawn style made electronics feel approachable rather than intimidating." Another mentioned: "I still reference this 30 years later when teaching basics to newcomers."

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🔌 The book was originally published in 1983 and became famous for its hand-drawn circuit diagrams and explanations, all meticulously created by Mims himself using a technical pen. 📚 Forrest Mims III taught himself electronics without any formal engineering education, yet went on to sell over 7 million copies of his books and write columns for Popular Electronics magazine. ⚡ The book's clear, step-by-step approach has inspired countless engineers, including many who went on to work at major tech companies like Apple and Microsoft. 🔬 Mims is not only an electronics expert but also a respected atmospheric scientist who invented the "sun photometer," used by NASA's GLOBE program to measure the atmosphere's optical depth. 📝 Each page of the book features Mims's distinctive handwriting, which has become so iconic that some electronics enthusiasts can recognize his work simply by the penmanship.