by Andy on December 10, 2007
The new Weller ML500MP is a versatile mid-size soldering pencil that came out recently. Its main selling point is the fact that the user doesn’t have to choose between power and run time. With its medium setting working time of 30 minutes, it has the ability to finish numerous jobs between refills. This definitely makes it useful for field service repairs.
It also has a widely ranging temperature (750°F-900°F) allowing it to handle basic tasks as well as detailed projects. In addition, one of the most functional things about the ML500MP is that when its soldering tip is removed, it can be used as a mini-torch.
Here are a few more features of the Weller ML500MP Magna-Lite Butane Soldering Pencil that may interest you:
- Uses a Piezo ignition system
- Adjustable gas flow valve controls temperature range
- Wide base allows hands-free operation
- Window allows user to see fuel level
- Iron is refillable with Weller WB1 or WB2 filtered butane
- Comes with an ML501 tip
- Also uses ML502 and ML503 tips
All-Spec Industries carries the new Weller ML500MP as well as its accessory tips.
by Andy on December 3, 2007
Since we have done quite a few product reviews lately, we have decided a basic “how-to” article would be an appropriate post. The following is a series of steps to take when practicing the art of basic circuit board soldering.
First of all, you need to make sure you have all of the equipment that you need: a solder iron and solder. You should choose the appropriate iron based on the type of soldering you will be doing. In addition to this, you will need to choose a type of solder. If you’re working with electronics or circuit boards, be careful not to use acid core solder because of its corrosive nature.
Next, after you have all the right equipment, you should prepare your surface. The surface should be clean and all of the surfaces that are going to be soldered should be cleaned with a solvent and steel wool. All of your equipment should be free from debris as well.
Now you can start the actual soldering process. Bend the leads of the component and fit them through the correct holes in the board. Touch the pad and the lead with the iron’s tip to allow them both to heat up. After both are properly heated, you can begin soldering. The result should be a shiny connection with no cold joints (bubbles in solder).
After you have soldered everything that you need to, you need to clean up using solvent or steel wool to remove the extra rosin.
Check out this video on circuit board soldering. It goes a little more in-depth than my post, and gives you a visual reference as well.
