Tools and Helpers¶

This section collects practical tools that support CubeSat development and assembly. It includes physical tools (like crimpers, torque drivers, microscopes), custom jigs and fixtures for alignment or testing, as well as helpful software tools (ECAD, CAD, code, simulation, visualization) and calculators. Whether you're wiring harnesses, assembling PCBs, or measuring fastener torque, this is where the hands-on helpers live.

Hand Tools and Assembly Equipment¶

To be added here:

Torque drivers and fastener tools
Crimpers, wire strippers, and insertion tools
ESD-safe tools and workstations
Repeatability and calibration considerations

Inspection and Measurement¶

To be added here:

Microscopes and cameras
Calipers, micrometers, and gauges
Electrical measurement tools
Visual inspection vs. automated methods

Jigs, Fixtures, and Test Aids¶

To be added here:

Alignment and assembly jigs
Test fixtures and breakout boards
3D-printed vs. machined fixtures
Designing fixtures for repeatability

Electrical and RF Test Equipment¶

To be added here:

Power supplies and electronic loads
Oscilloscopes and logic analysers
Spectrum analysers and VNAs
Practical tradeoffs for small teams

Software Tools¶

To be added here:

ECAD and CAD tools
Firmware and software development environments
Simulation and modelling tools
Data visualisation and analysis software

Calculators and Reference Tools¶

To be added here:

Link budget and RF calculators
Power and thermal estimation tools
Orbital and pass prediction utilities
Unit conversion and sanity-check helpers

Automation and Workflow Helpers¶

To be added here:

Scripts for testing and data collection
CI and automation for firmware and docs
Reproducible build and test environments
Reducing manual error through tooling

Documentation and Knowledge Management¶

To be added here:

Lab notebooks and build logs
Checklists and procedures
Version control for hardware and software
Knowledge transfer and long-term maintainability

👉 Please consider contributing!