Tech Tip

As we’ve said in previous posts, there are tricks of the trade in simulation that can get you through the day unscathed. Having additional cords and adapters on hand during simulation, particularly during in situ, is one of them.

Create a tool kit that contains everything you would need to quickly patch and/or repair your simulator or other A/V peripherals

Tool Kit

Another such tip is to have a tool kit or some tools available. I know some colleagues that just throw some screwdrivers into the bottom of a container, and I know some colleagues that have so many tools that it would impress NASCAR….the bottom line is to have something available to make adjustments, modifications, and quick fixes on the fly.

I suggest that you get tool kit, similar to the one pictured above that has a combination of small screwdrivers and regular sized screwdrivers in it.

Also, look around and see what “one-offs” you may have. For example, SimMan3G’s leg takes a T-20 bit versus the standard straight or Phillips bit. In this instance, it woud be worth it to purchase a T-20 bit for your tool kit or a seperate T-bit set.

I also recommend the following to add to your tool kit:

Multi-tool

This tool is the “MacGuyver” of sim techs. It has the ability to do quick fixes in a hurry, and a lot of sim techs carry them on their person at all times.

Needle Nose Pliers

Needle nose pliers are a great addition to your tool kit because you are always working in a confined space of the manikin or underneath a desk. These pliers can get in places your hand cannot.

Diagonal Cutting Pliers

These are good for cutting cable ties, bubble tubing, miscellaneous string and wires.

Twisty Ties

These are the same type of ties that come with your loaf of bread, but they have uses in bundling wires and cords. They can also be used to tie tags onto your simulators or other pieces of equipment, and can be used to repair if necessary.

Cable Ties

Cable ties are a universal fix you will see around the simulation lab. These little buggers can help keep containers closed to bundling wires and cords and the has multiple fixes for issues that can arise in the manikins. You even see cable ties in the various manikins, by the manufacturer, to keep tubes and lines in place. A must have.

A final note, you don’t need to get Snap On, Craftsman, or DeWalt-quality tools for your center…unless you just have that much surplus budget, places like Harbor Freight sells cheap tools that will get the job done. Over time, your tool kit make get a little larger as you come across things you routinely need. Ultimately, what you want to do is have your staff set up to be able to do quick repairs and replacements of parts if needed. This will decrease the down time due to broken equipment or having to send equipment out for repair.