Not really sure where to ask this, as even the Google answers are very confusing for me.
I’m interested in DIY consumer(?) electronics. For e.g I saw a video of someone buying a used tablet screen, a display board, and made himself a little portable monitor. Or I have a retro handheld, and some people open theirs up, and replace the speaker in it. They buy the actual little tiny speaker from China and put it in themselves.
This stuff is cool as hell how do I learn how to do this?? I know I can look up project guides and recreate them, but I’d eventually like to be able to do my own things (like if I want to make some kind of soldering change?) And I assume that requires more in depth knowledge.
I should also add I have absolutely 0 prior knowledge about electronics.
I recommend to start learning fundamental electronics first then move up to microcontrollers (if you’re interested for that) or straight to device. Make a habit of reading datasheet. Reading datasheet is necessity to understand the characteristic of components you’re after.
While learning Arduinos are good to learn how to handle microcontrollers are interfacing electrics modules. Learning electronics fundamental is good start to put more confident handling electronics (especially low voltage/current stuffs). You may want to tweak lower devices first as higher power devices such as SMPS, Inverter, old CRT TV, Higher power amplifier require more understanding power electronics.
Afterward steps up to analog electronics (op amp, transistors, mosfets) then digital electronics (digital ics, microcontrollers). At this stage reading datasheet is a must in order to not miss anything from components you are going to use.
For learning via youtubes, you can try visit eevblog, GreatScott (general purpose), bigclivedotcom (general device disassembly/tear down), afrotechmods (his old videos are still good for explanation). For books, try to check other commenters.
You can learn at any pace and most importantly have fun :D
My tip for faster learning is by doing a fun project, it can help to motivate learning. You can start with something simple but adds QoL like making room thermometer using modules and microntroller.
source: Am recently graduated mechatronics engineering student, currently working on automotive industry.