Suggestion for getting parts in Canada? (not @ ratshack)
 

I went to the local ratshack this afternoon and struck out trying to get the parts to finish the Guino. Some were out of stock (the transistor - and it wasn't even clear if it was the right one).

Other parts (resistors) came in packs of 100 (I suppose that's normal - never looked at buying that stuff before).

Do I need a reality check? Any other supplier suggestions that don't involve expensive shipping from the US?

Maybe Futurlec might have everything and be more reasonable?

i.e.
LCD Display's

100 pack of resistors is normal. Although they should have some smaller 10 or 20 packs.

Have your tried digikey?

Digi-Key Corporation - Canada Home Page

Haven't tried Digikey yet. Last time I ordered something small from them, shipping was 2x the cost of the parts!

I wonder when some enterprising EM member will put kits together to sell & mail (for a reasonable profit, of course).

I'll do more hunting around tomorrow...

What parts are you still needing? Just interface parts, transistors, resistors, diodes, etc? I might have some extras that I can just stuff into an envelope for you.

The "kit" is an interesting idea, but would need to wait for a stable device. Wouldn't be very fair for a DIY if it shipped in a "not too stable" state and the buyer couldn't easily get the parts to make it right. But interesting indeed.

Where are you? GTA by chance? There are often "hobby" electronics stores or even better, some suppy stores that you can just walk in, walk down the isles and pick up whatever you want. Mississauga has a strip mall with about 7 such stores. If you can't find it there... well... you CAN find it there.

I've used digikey before, but I've also heard mouser.com is a good alternative. I'm not sure how much shipping would be though.

Metro,

Did you find your outstanding parts?

I've got him covered.