Does it matter which end of a test load the resistor goes?

[james1095]

Fair enough, cheers for the heads-up.

Mine aspires to "temperature controlled" status, it's an adjustable iron in that it has a dial to turn up the heat, but no temperature output. Just an increasing colour scale from yellow to red. Precision kit!!

Any reason to buy a new gadget is a good thing though

I got by for ~15 years using cheapo soldering irons, so it can be done, you just have to be more careful. Anyone who is looking to buy a new soldering iron and plans to use it a lot, I would recommend looking at the Hakko 936. I have no affiliation with Hakko, just a satisfied customer. I have their 808 desoldering gun and that thing is awesome. I was a little hesitant to drop 200 bucks on it, but the first time I used it I had no regrets. I can pull a 40 pin DIP from a double sided board on a whim

 

[bbshamsa]

Yeah, to be honest, I think I might stick to what I've got for now and focus on technique, or at least wait until something breaks because of it.

Thanks for the tip. I've bookmarked a couple of local suppliers who do that brand amongst others.

 

[chipdouglas]

just another heads up. some of the cheaper solder irons don't have a temp rating on the pack. but most pple agree that the 25 watt irons are what should be used.

michael