5
5)
Prepare your soldering tools.
a)
Use an appropriate tip for the application. Also, make sure the soldering tip is
clean. Gently use a brass wool or a brush to clean the tip when needed. Another
way of cleaning the soldering tip is to use a wet sponge.
b)
The soldering iron temperature depends on the type of solder used.
If you are using a typical 60/40 lead solder, depending on the thickness the
temperature should be set anywhere between 370 to 500
°F (187 to 260 °C).
If
you are using a lead-free solder, increase above temperatures by 40 to 70
°F (5
to 20 °C).
*ATTENTION* HIGHER TEMPERATURES WILL DAMAGE THE COMPONENTS
ALONG WITH THE CIRCUIT BOARD.
*ATTENTION* DO NOT TOUCH THE SOLDERING IRON TIP WHEN IT IS HOT.
c)
It is recommended that you clean the board with a fine brush, isopropyl alcohol
and lint-free cloth to get rid of any pre-existing residue, glue or dirt. This way
the solder will create a better joint with the copper surface.
d)
Have your flush cutter, needle nose plier or tweezers handy.
e)
Having a roll of paper tape helps you to keep the components in place when
soldering on the bottom side of the board.
f)
Have a rosin flux pen or paste handy. Adding flux to the pads before soldering
the components makes the wetting process easier by letting the melted solder
to flow better on the pad and create a better joint.
*ATTENTION* SOLDERING SHOULD BE DONE IN A VENTILATED AREA.
BREATHING SOLDER FUMES WILL HARM YOU.
6)
Start the assembly by placing the IC chip and the DIP switch on the board and soldering
their leads on the opposite side. You can solder them all at once or one by one depending
on your comfort and skill level. Pay attention to the orientation of the chip.
7)
Strip the tiny wires of the vibrator motor, remove the double-sided tape and stick it on its
designated location on the board. Solder the wires onto the surface mount pads.
If you cannot strip the wires you can melt the plastic shield around the wires with your
soldering iron tip to expose the copper for soldering.
Do it at your own risk.
