Good soldering practices are essential for reliable operation of operation of a circuit with soldered connections.
Here are six steps for successful soldering:
- Always use a low wattage soldering iron (25 to Watts).Be sure to tin the tip according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Always use a rosin core solder when soldering electronic components. Never use acid core solder since it will corrode the soldered lead.
- Solder does not adhere to paint, grease, oil, wax or melted insulation. Remove all such foreign matter with a solvent, steel wool or fine sand paper. Always buff the copper foil or a pc board with steel wool before soldering. (The copper should be shiny).
- To solder, first heat the connection (not the solder!) for a few seconds with the hot tip of the iron. Then leave the iron in place and apply solder.
- Allow the solder to flow through and around the connection before removing the iron .do not apply too much solder or move the connection before it cools.
- Keep the iron is tip clean and shiny. Wipe off debris with a damp sponge or cloth.
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