What is everyone doing for soldering stations for their projects? I'm particularly interested in units that do SMT components like SO-8, etc.
Before I was retired, the shops I used had Metcal and JBC but they are rather pricey. I don't mind spending the money if there's nothing better out there but it looks like there is a ton of Weller, (Cooper Tools), offered all over the place. I'm just concerned that they just aren't up to the task.
Before I was retired, the shops I used had Metcal and JBC but they are rather pricey. I don't mind spending the money if there's nothing better out there but it looks like there is a ton of Weller, (Cooper Tools), offered all over the place. I'm just concerned that they just aren't up to the task.
Everybody who makes soldering stations makes them for SMT now, usually at a premium price. At work we use various Wellers (not sure what models, iron, hot air, and a suction iron). I prefer Hakko products for home- more bang for the buck, but I don't do much SMT. IMO, you need something with a tweezer tip to easily remove parts.
I decided to bite the bullet and get the JBC AD2950. I have a local friend that uses the same family so we'll be able to borrow from each other, (tips, etc.). It's a bit pricey but hopefully I'll only do it once.
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