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Electronics => Electronics => Topic started by: airman00 on October 06, 2008, 09:24:02 AM

Title: SMT Soldering - Tool Recommendations
Post by: airman00 on October 06, 2008, 09:24:02 AM

Hey,

I'm looking for a soldering iron that I can invest in that can do precise SMT soldering. Can anyone recommend one to me? My budget is up to 400 dollars.

Anyone recommend one?

Should I get a regular soldering iron or that hot-flow gun thing?

Features that I would like:
Heat up and cool down by a push of a button  - heats up and cools down in seconds
Variable temperature       

Title: Re: SMT Soldering - Tool Recommendations
Post by: izua on October 06, 2008, 10:47:04 AM

a hot air rework station is better, once you learn to work with it.

Title: Re: SMT Soldering - Tool Recommendations
Post by: airman00 on October 06, 2008, 11:48:49 AM

Quote from: izua on October 06, 2008, 10:47:04 AM

a hot air rework station is better, once you learn to work with it.

what about this one?

http://www.amazon.com/Aoyue-968-Digital-Rework-Station/dp/B000HDG0AO

Title: Re: SMT Soldering - Tool Recommendations
Post by: szhang on October 07, 2008, 11:02:48 PM

I use a similar rework station (same brand) at work as the one you pointed to.  Its a pretty good station, especially for the money.    I also have another Aoyue station for home use, both are really good (and cheap).  I especially like the speed.  The iron usually heats up in about 5 seconds.  (The hot air takes slightly longer)