S
OLDERING
T
UTORIAL
Solder
Soldering Iron
PCB Solder Pad
PCB
Component Leg
Bad
No flow from leg to pad
Good
Flows from leg to pad
Bad
Solder “bridge” across pads
Bad & Good Solder Joints
X
X
á
Remember to take your time. Don’t rush.
It’s almost impossible to “burn up” these parts!
The most important skill needed to successfully construct your device is
soldering. Make sure you start by using electronics solder, not plumber’s
solder. The main trick to getting a successful solder connection is to heat
the junction up before applying the solder to the heated area. Do NOT try
to melt some solder onto the tip of the iron and smear it onto the joint -
you won’t get a strong joint.
If the heat is applied unevenly, you will get solder blobs (see below). To
better apply heat,keep your soldering iron tip clean by wiping it frequently
on a damp sponge or cloth. The tip should always be shiny, and not
covered in tarnish and burned crud (don’t burn crud - bad!).
You’re a roboticist, not a painter!
www.solarbotics.com
1-866-276-2687
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