HowToSolder

How To Solder Printed Circuit Boards

1. To solder printed circuits, you will need the right equipment and materials. Here is a step-by-step guide.

2. Prepare Equipment and Materials:

1. Soldering iron or soldering station
2. Solder: lead 60/40 (22 gauge preferably) with rosin core flux
3. Added Soldering flux you will not usually need unless dirty conditions
4. Damp sponge
5. Steel wool or fine sandpaper only if iron tip gets badly corroded
6. Nippers or cutter to cut off component lead ends after soldering
7. Solder braid/wick or desoldering pump (if dismantling components)

3. Clean and Tin the Soldering Iron:

1. Switch on the soldering iron and wait for it to heat up.
2. Clean the solder tip by wiping it on a moist sponge.
3. Tin the solder bit by melting a little solder on it.

4. Prepare the PCB:

1. Ensure the copper pad on the PCB is clean.

5. Component Placement:

1. Place components onto the board starting with the smallest and flattest ones.
2. Bend the leads on the bottom of the board at a 45-degree angle to hold parts in place.

6. Apply Heat and Solder:

1. Apply a small amount of solder to the iron tip to conduct heat.
2. Solder a component to the PCB by heating BOTH the pad and component lead at about a 45 degree angle with the soldering iron
3. Quickly Apply a SMALL amount of solder to the iron tip, right where the pad and component meet.
4. after 1 or 2 seconds add more solder , allowing the solder to melt and flow into the joint.
5. You should be able to do this without lifting the iron up and down.
6. Quickly lift the iron off the board
7. wait 5 to 10 seconds for the solder to freeze.
8. Clip off the component leads where they are too long.

7. Safety Precautions:

1. Work in a well-lit area with adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes.
2. Avoid touching your face while working with solder due to lead content.
3. Always wash your hands before eating after handling solder.

8. By following these steps and safety precautions, you can effectively solder printed circuits.