This is a list of components I've used. I'll only put a picture, the schematic symbol (if appropriate) and a really short description. In later blog postings I'll explain them more in detail. But I wanted to have a list I can refer to from other postings. This post will therefore be updated regularly. 

Batteryholder with two AA batteries (3V)
	This is a holder for two AA batteries. As one AA battery is 1.5V, the two batteries will deliver 3V. This is enough to power basic circuits.
Battery connector
	A battery connector makes it easy for you to power your circuit. The connector is useful in combination with a battery holder or a 9V battery.
Resistor
	This is one of the most common electronic components. It does basically what it's name says: resisting. This component enables you to lower the voltage on other components placed in series with the resistor.
Light Emitting Diode (LED)
	Also a very common component within a circuit. And a must have for anyone starting to learn electronics. As it's a cheap component you will probably break one or two in the proces. As it's name says it's a diode (see below) that emits light.
Diode
	A component used in the more advanced circuits is the diode. It has one purpose: to make a wire one-way traffic.
Electrolytic capacitor
	Not really a basic component, but much used. For now I'll stick to the description that it will stores energy and is able to release it quickly.
potentiometer
	Handy component, especially for beginners. It enables you to adjust the resistance manually.
Transistor
	The component that made everything else possible. It's function is easy to understand, but very useful. It's basically a button you can press by putting current on the middle connector.
NE555
	Basic integrated circuit (IC) that can be used as a timer.
Multimeter
	Also a must have for anyone learning electronics: the multimeter. Although you can build circuits without it, it will help you very much to understand things and debug your circuit.
Breadbord
	Another must have for beginners is the breadbord. It will allow you to build circuits without soldering. No mess and infinite retries.
Press button
	This is a pretty straightforward component. If you press the button a current will flow through it. Upon release the flow is broken.
Light Dependent Resistor (LDR)
	This component will enable you to detect the amount of light. The more light, the less resistance it will generate.
Crystal oscillator
	A Crystal will generate a electrical signal with a very precise frequency.
Atmega328
	The Atmega328 is a PIC which is also used on the Arduino.
Ceramic capacitor
	Like the electrolytic capacitor, it stores energy for a short period of time. These are better suited for high frequencies.
Voltage regulator
	Component that keeps the voltage stable.