[sdiy] Learning circuits deeply [was: Re: The Korg MS-20 VCO core is oscillating!]

[David G. Dixon]

> ----- Original Message ----- 
> > Trust me, they break it enough on the own everytime they 
> carry their 
> > breadboards around. ;)
> > - Aaron
> 
> And that is why I always prototype by soldering on stripboard. 

I've developed a system for breadboarding (which I don't actually do all
that often, except when I know the circuit is going to require lots of
testing, like a VCO) which leads to very robust breadboard circuits with
very few "flying wires".  I lay out breadboards in Excel using my funky
system, use colour-coded jumpers, and bend and trim all component wires so
they are flush with the board.  This makes the board a pleasure to assemble,
and ensures that it won't fall apart if moved or dropped, etc.

It can be done well, with a little care.