Here is a brief list of the parts that make up a few models of pickups.
Gibson Humbucker: Traditional
- Bottom plate is used to support all the components of the pickup.
- Adjustable bobbin is the screw side.
- Non-adjustable bobbin is the stud side.
- Bar magnet of a desired material for specific pickup model.
- 6 adjustable pole pieces used in the adjustable bobbin for minor string balance.
- 6 studs used in the non-adjustable bobbin.
- Metal spacer to conduct magnetic field to adjustable pole pieces.
- Cover is used for maximum shielding and bobbin protection.
- Hookup wire connected to the fine magnet wire to give better connections.
- Tape is used to protect the coils and secure hookup wires.
- Magnet wire of various sizes for particular sound and output desired.
- Shielded or 4-conductor cable that connects to the controls.
- 4 screws to hold bobbins secure to the bottom plate.
- Wood or plastic shim to keep the bobbins level.
Gibson P-90: Commonly called a “Soapbar” pickup
- 6 adjustable pole pieces for minor string balance.
- Bobbin that is wound as a single coil.
- 2 Bar magnets with like polarities facing each other.
- Bottom plate to hold components secure. Can be “soapbar or dog-ear”
- 2 wood screws to hold magnets and bobbin secure.
- Metal spacer to conduct magnetic field to adjustable pole pieces.
- Hookup wire to connected to the fine magnet wire from the coil.
- Tape to protect the coil and secure the hookup wires.
- Plastic or metal cover to protect the fragile bobbin from abuse or wear.
- Shielded hookup wire connected to a solder lug on the bottom side of pickup.