Before workshop:

• check all soldering iron bits are general purpose; purchase/replace as needed
• do you want people to work in pairs (only need 1/2 the soldering irons)
• check any additional materials/tools that could help:
  • resistor lead benders (300 yen each)
  • one spool of solder per soldering iron
  • etc…
• test, test, test before the workshop
• don't underestimate the time required

How to scale to many people?

• have all workspaces ready, including tools
• have component kits ready

How to improve the experience and reduce risk of mistakes

• explain what they are going to build: summary of project
  • demo board = reference board while building
• explain each component briefly, which also checks kits are complete
• show schematic and explain point-to-point wiring used to connect parts
• explain how protoboard and how point-to-point wiring works
• explain how IC pins are numbered, polarity of IC, diode
• give everyone a printed sheet with the schematic, resistor colour code, and the top and bottom (reflected) layouts
• build from the layout diagrams, not from the schematic
• explain soldering, especially safety: which parts get hot, avoid burning the cable, etc.
  • predict every mistake they might make and warn them about it
• demonstrate how to make a good solder joint
• demonstrate how to construct using camera and big screen
  • construct one part at a time
  • start with the lowest component (IC holder?) and work towards the tallest
  • solder the IC holder without the IC (put it in last, after checking power connections, etc.)
  • vise is probably not needed
  • TAs: check all students have connected their part correctly
  • do not leave students getting bored with nothing to do