Quote:
Originally Posted by fordgtlover  That is incredible.
Any chance that you can give me a few pointers on doing such amazingly neat work. Mine invariably ends up all blobby.
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My soldering method is quite contrary to conventional soldering methods. Not sure if you guys are interested but I’ll post it anyway.
Here is how I do it:
Required Tools:
Soldering Iron and Tin (doh)
Nail Clipper
Masking tape
The last two items are the key items to get a nice solder joint.
Firstly, whichever way you mount the components make sure it stays on it without dropping off. You can use a masking tape to temporary secure the component so it does not fall off. Next step is crucial,
TRIM THE LEADS FIRST! This is the part where nail clippers truly shine! Their accuracy and ease of use beats even pricy “commercial tools”. Use nail clippers to trim the leads to appropriate length. They should be no “taller” than the intended soldering blob. Next, flow solder to the joint. For first timers, put as little amount of solder as you can, and then slowly fill it up until you reach the desired size. There you have it, a nice round shiny blob of solder joint! There are benefits to using this method. The solder flows much easier and the joint looks much cleaner.
I don’t know why but most of diyers who posted their pcb works don’t solder this way. They would always solder the components first and then trim the leads later. IIRC, Kin0kin solders this way too.
