Learning the basics of mpc fixing?

Hey,

Ive been reading alot of old topics on the board, esp the mpc bible. And it seems that most of you know at least the very basics of fixing small mpc problems. For example cleaning the pads, replacing backlights ect. Id like to be able to do this. I know itll take a few years but whats some of the things you fullas first learnt? Im guessing basic electronics and how to solder, so i picked up a make it yourself kit from the store, what else would be useful?

make your own cables. you save money, have the connectors you need (no more adapters), the length is just right AND learn how to solder. if you mess up, rip the cable out and start again. not going to cost you your mpc.

so basically buy 50-100m of cable, multicore cable or whatever, bunch of connectors and fire away.

don't know about a kit, but cables is something everyone needs.

Type in "how to solder" into google. read a couple of guides, go to radio shack and pick up:

a couple of cheap electronic components (resistors, etc.)
a breadboard
a soldering iron
solder
desoldering braid

and practice soldering and desoldering, until you're comfortable.

that will get you as far as being able to make the common repairs that are properly documented here. but it doesn't help you as far as diagnosing problems, etc. For that, you need some knowledge of electronics and some testing equipment (at least a digital multimeter). now its time for a trip to amazon.com, just do a book search on electronics, and pick one that looks like its for beginners. I can't help you pick one b/c I haven't read them... That's just the start, from there its a long journey.

I've only had my MPC 60 for a month, and I don't have any problems besides a couple of stiff buttons and a dead backlight, so I haven't really dug into it yet, but I'd like to do the output boost mod myself, and I'm prolly gonna paint her black as soon as I figure out how to put the letters back on. I have done some work on my EMAX I Rack but I haven't been able to bring it all the way back yet... I'm getting close though...

good luck

go buy a cheap multimeter and learn to use it. heres a bunch of links on 'how to'
http://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+m ... =firefox-a

Thanks fullas, i got my dads soldering iron today so ill get soldering down first , then start with the cables and kits. Thanks for the help and links once again.