I think I need to stay away from IC's, simply because i need to master simple circuits. I really was thinking of a 110 light dimmer, perhaps one I can insert between a bulb and lamp. As for The Shack....I have gotten some parts on-line, but when I need a quick part to substitute what ever part was left out of my order, I hope The Shack still has them! It's hard to justify carrying lots of parts when they don't pay the bills anymore!