Sysadmin Basic Kit

Not as robust as a site kit, but also not as clunky to drag around. You may want to add various connectors and adaptors from the site kit, depending on your usual routine.

Basic Pocketful

  • Multi-tool (ThinkGeek Swiss Geek, Leatherman Wave or SuperTool or the new Crunch, Victorinox CyberTool, Gerber Multi-Plier)
  • Flashlight (Keychain LED, Mini-Maglite, MiniStar2 Maglite retrofit)
  • Cable management (a handful of velcro wraps or cable ties)
  • USB memory stick with site-specific rescue/handy stuff loaded on it
  • A spare USB memory stick for quick log backups

Small Pouch

  • Mirror (dental mirror or extensible telescoping auto-parts mirror)
  • Screwdriver basic set (#2 and #4 phillips and flat, maybe in 4-in-1 form)
  • Tweezers, forceps, or extensible small-part grabbers
  • Wire cutters
  • Fine-point Sharpie
  • Post-It Notes
  • Canned air
  • Roll of Scotch tape
  • Small parts stash (mints tin or pill bottle stocked with things you routinely use, e.g., chassis case screws, loc nuts, jumpers, drive mount screws)

Self-Care

  • Fleece vest/jacket for extended data center visits
  • Earplugs (in pocket of fleece)
  • "Stay late" supplies: snacks, meds, bottle of water, etc.

ToolBag or Backpack

  • Multimeter
  • Small cable tester
  • Mini-hub
  • RJ45 patch cables (crossover, standard)
  • Miscellaneous adapters (DB9/Cat5/DB25, USB serial, etc.)
  • Portable labeler (so it's right there when you need it)