Rant: Small parts

[steve30]

Why do miniscule parts always like to mysteriously disappear?

A couple of months ago I lost a tiny little spring out of a mode selector switch. Now, yesterday, I was taking apart a 10 turn pot to find out how it works, and the wiper which moves along the coil disappeared from my desk. One moment it was there, and the next moment it was gone! Can't find it anywhere.

Maybe I can make a new wiper somehow.

[SeanB]

Walk barefoot and your soles magically find them. Might have to use another unit to make a donor wiper though, those are pretty complex matal parts.

[mariush]

Get a laser pointer, turn it on and put it on the floor and move it slowly around... the component lost on the floor will shine when laser hits it.  Or at least block the laser and you won't see the laser hit the wall.

[TechJunkie]

I use a large neodymium magnet, you would be amazed at what it picks up that you can't see! 

[steve30]

I use a large neodymium magnet, you would be amazed at what it picks up that you can't see! 

Cool

I've tried using magnets to pick up small parts, but haven't had any success.

Anyway, I'm pleased to say that the wipe turned up the other day. I saw it on the carpet whilst I was watching TV. I'm surprised I didn't find it when I was using a torch, and brushing my hand over the carpet.

[SeanB]

I keep magnets out of old magnetrons for that. Cheap enough so if it grows a fur layer you can simply put it in the pile of steel scrap and take it to the scrapyard as well. Normally I wrap them in a plastic bag so it is easy to take the scrap off easily, but often little things escape during the bag removal.

[steve30]

I didn't manage to get the 10 turn pot back together. Couldn't quite figure it out.

Are these all the parts that are required, or am I missing something else? I don't seem to remember any more.