Books on Electronics
Books for beginners
These books are great for starting to learn about electronics.
Electronics for Kids
A great introduction, this book starts by assuming no previous knowledge then carefully builds up straightforward explanations of how components work, plus practical techniques including wire-stripping, soldering and using a multimeter. The final project uses three ICs to make a great game.
The author, Øyvind Nydal Dahl, has done a great job in providing clear step-by-step instructions with breadboard (or stripboard) layouts as well as circuit diagrams for projects. As Technical Reviewer for the book I've built all the projects myself and I'm very happy to recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and educational introduction to electronics.
A Beginner's Guide to Circuits NEW!
Another great book by Øyvind Nydal Dahl, author of Electronics for Kids (above). There are circuit diagrams and parts lists for 9 simple projects, all of which can be built on breadboard without soldering. The first project has full step-by-step instructions to help a beginner build the others from their circuit diagrams. Common mistakes are highlighted and there's a helpful explanation of how each circuit works. This book makes a good companion to Electronics for Kids which I recommend you read first if you are new to electronics.
Electronics for Dummies (UK edition)
A thorough introduction to electronics, assuming no previous knowledge.
Electronics for Dummies (US edition)
A thorough introduction to electronics, assuming no previous knowledge..
Electronics Projects for Dummies
Detailed instructions for building and testing ten projects.
Make: Electronics
A great practical book for the beginner with step-by-step instructions for building circuits on breadboard.
Make: More Electronics
This continues from the above book by introducing more advanced circuits using comparators, logic ICs, decoders and shift registers.
Electronic Components, Volume 1
An encyclopedia of electronic components. Volume 1 covers resistors, capacitors, inductors, switches, relays and transistors.
Electronic Components, Volume 2
An encyclopedia of electronic components. Volume 2 covers LEDs, LCDs, thyristors, logic ICs, audio electronics and amplifiers.
Electronic Components, Volume 3
An encyclopedia of electronic components. Volume 3 covers a wide range of electronic sensors.
Starting Electronics
A practical introduction to electronics with circuits to build on breadboard.
Books for more advanced students
Art of Electronics
This excellent book is widely regarded as essential for anyone wishing to seriously study electronics. Although topics are covered in considerable depth it is written in a relatively easy, informal style with practical examples. Highly recommended.
Learning the Art of Electronics
A great introduction to circuit design with thorough explanations of how the example circuits work.
Reference Books
Learn how to use the integrated circuits covered by these books.
IC 555 Projects
The 555 timer IC is used in many projects and this book thoroughly explains its operation and use. There are many circuit diagrams of projects. Great for beginners and a useful reference for everyone.
CMOS Cookbook
A valuable reference book which covers the individual 4000 series CMOS ICs and how to use them together in circuits.
TTL Cookbook
A valuable reference book which covers the individual 74 series TTL ICs and how to use them together in circuits.