To set up a Deep Water Culture (DWC) hydroponic system, you will need the following materials and equipment:

1. Container: You will need a container to hold the nutrient solution and support the plants. The container should be lightproof to prevent the growth of algae and other light-loving organisms. A container can be almost anything that holds water. 5 gallon buckets and plastic storage containers are excellent choices. Ideally you want the container to hold enough water to create a little bit of a buffer to compensate for changing water levels during the grow cycle.
2. Air Pump: An air pump is needed to oxygenate the nutrient solution in the container. You will also need an air stone to diffuse the air and create bubbles in the solution. If there is no air being added to the water, the plants will eventually use up all of the free oxygen in the water and drown.
3. Net Pots: The net pots are used to hold the plants and their growing medium (such as clay pellets or rockwool) in the nutrient solution.
4. Nutrient Solution: A properly balanced nutrient solution is required to provide the plants with the essential nutrients they need to grow. You can either purchase pre-made nutrient solutions or mix your own using the appropriate fertilizer salts.
5. pH Testing Kit: A pH testing kit isnt absolutely needed but it can be useful to monitor the pH level of the nutrient solution. Different plants thrive at different pH levels and we want to do everything that we can to achieve the best results. The pH level should be maintained between 5.5 and 6.5 for most plants. In my first couple of years growing hydroponically I never tested the ph and I was getting pretty good results. Once I looked at my pH a little closer and and started adjusting the growth really exploded.
6. Lighting: Depending on the location of your system, you may need to provide supplemental lighting to ensure that the plants receive enough light for photosynthesis. I have had success growing indoors under regular led shop lights for lettuce and leafy greens but similar efforts outdoors where there is more intense sunlight produces better results.

Once you have all the necessary materials and equipment, the steps to set up a DWC system are relatively straightforward:

1. Fill the container with the nutrient solution.
2. Place the air stone in the bottom of the container and connect it to the air pump using the air tubing.
3. Place the net pots in the solution and fill them with your growing medium.
4. Plant your seedlings in the growing medium and adjust the height of the net pots so that the roots are submerged in the nutrient solution.
5. Turn on the air pump to oxygenate the solution and promote healthy root growth.
6. Monitor the pH and nutrient levels of the solution, and adjust as needed.
7. Provide appropriate lighting and care for your plants, and enjoy the benefits of growing plants hydroponically in a DWC system.