Humanity’s thirst for knowledge is matched only by humanity’s propensity for innovation. This post will be about a transformative technology, a ground-breaking innovation in the form of a tool. Not just any ordinary tool, but one of the highest caliber. A tool of great versatility, simplicity, and ingenuity. I am referring to none other than the Microspatula (https://www.amazon.com/Chemglass-CG-1982-11-Spatula-Tapered-Nickel-Stainless/dp/B005WX4TJ8/ref=sr_1_1?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1492140926&sr=1-1&keywords=microspatula).
The Microspatula is a thin piece of stainless steel that has two flat ends and is about 6 inches long. What is so great about it? Well, it’s the handiest thing that I have ever held. When one runs into a problem… nine times out of ten. NINE TIMES OUT OF TEN it can be solved with a Microspatula. For someone like me, who repairs bicycles, builds electrical circuits and spends a lot of time in the lab- the Microspatula is my best friend. After you’re done reading this, I hope you will see the light and carry a Microspatula around with you. You can bet that I do.
When I first entered university, I wielded the Microspatula in my chemistry labs. It was great for transferring small amounts of powders into weighing vessels. That was its only use, I thought. I have never been so wrong in my life.
Enter my final year where an awesome man named David Dubins (also my professor) explained how to truly use the Microspatula. My eyes were opened to the immense potential of this tiny hero. What have I done with my Microspatula? Well, I can’t share everything with you, but I can give a brief list to get your minds jogging.
Different Ways to use the Microspatula
- Flathead Screwdriver
Dealing with flathead screws? Well, as long as the screw doesn’t tightly bind to the internal threads- a Microspatula can tighten that sucker up. It’s great for electrical components like trim pots with really tiny screws that set the resistance level.
- Removing breadboard components
I like to build circuits, and it’s a pain to peel off a component or a wire from my breadboard by hand. How did I get around this problem? Hmm
- Discharging static buildup
Static electricity buildup can be a killer to sensitive electronic components like MOSFETs. To disperse any static from yourself or electrical components, the excellent conductivity of the Microspatula is perfect for the job. Just ground the Microspatula afterward.
- Manicures
The Microspatula can get underneath and clean out those dirty fingernails, don’t you worry.
- Scraping surfaces
Sometimes your work table accumulates a small layer of funk that cannot be wiped off. Why not scrape it right off?
- Cleaning cracks
Got dirty cracks that are bugging you. Need a thin, flat and robust object that will get the job done. Microspatula
- Picking locks
When you can’t wait for the locksmith to head over.
- Removing labels.
They come off cleanly, and Robert is your father’s brother.
- Opening packaging
It’s surprisingly sharp, handy if you don’t have a knife/scissors around.
What else have people done with it? -Reposition rim tape on bicycle wheels -Remove handlebar grips on a bike –Answer interview questions for medical school -Use as a lever to pry off the stuck-on cap of a water jug -Slice bread –Bookmarking -Opening letters without destroying the envelope -Form a thermocouple junction -Fish out a pen that fell in the seat cracks on a ViaRail train
The list can go on forever
As I close this post, I leave you some quotes from a renowned Microspatula enthusiast
shankarpro1 