How to Solder: Through-Hole Soldering
Contributors:
Joel_E_B
Soldering Your First Component
Let's put all these tools into action. This first video will go over the basics of soldering your first component -- headers!
Check out the Vimeo version here.
Recap
It's really that easy! Follow Dave's simple rules to make every solder connection a good one.
- Be cautious when handling hot irons
- Use third hands or vices to hold boards while you solder
- Set your iron at a good medium heat (325-375 degrees C)
- If you see smoke coming from your solder, turn down the heat
- Tin your tip with solder before each connection to help prep the joint
- Use the side of the tip (aka the sweet spot), not the very tip of the iron
- Heat both the pad and the part you want to solder evenly and at the same time
- Pull the solder away, then the iron
- A good solder joint should look like a volcano or Hersey kiss, not a ball or clump
We've also put together this digram to help you better understand what makes a good solder joint.
Click for a larger image.
When you are finished, tin the tip to increase its life before turning your soldering iron off.