Institutionen för systemteknik

Some tips about soldering

• Start with the smallest components
• The solder will melt at a temperature of roughly 275 degrees Celsius
• Make sure you have the right components and where to place them. Have the schematic and layout in front of you when you solder.
• Larger metal components like BNC and SMA connectors are often easier to solder if you have a higher temperature on the iron. Just be careful not to burn the PCB.
• Cut off a bit of solder and hold in your hand when you use it. Do not tear it off since this can damage the internal flux leads which results in suboptimal solder joints.
• Use the ESD protection bracelet so you don't damage the chip.

Super short guide to soldering

1. Make sure the soldering iron is warm enough. Check by cleaning the tip and applying a little bit of solder to the tip.
2. Place the component in the right place and hold it down with a tweezer.
3. Hold the tip on the pad and the components lead and heat it until you can apply solder which melts quickly.
4. Remove the solder and keep the iron for a few seconds before removing that also.
5. Inspect the joint visually, if it is hard to see use the magnifying glass available in the lab.