Modding 120V Hakko FM-203 to 240V? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Binaryb3n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2016, 07:39:53 am
content: I've been looking at getting a FM-203 and a second hand one has come up on eBay. A few quick questions:a)Is it possible to mod an American Hakko FM-203 for use in Australia? I know some have had success with the 888/D, hence the question. Haven't found anything specific to the FM-203 though. Otherwise, any suggestions for good step down transformers that will be compatible?b)What questions should be asking about a second hand soldering station before clicking the buy button? And what sort of price should I be aiming for (for e.g., a new FM-203 from an Australian vendor is ($760AUD)c)Any last minute soldering stations to consider in the ~$500AU price bracket (second shelf or new)? I was considering buying a new FM-203, so up to the $760 at most.

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 10, 2016, 08:02:09 am
content: Quote from: Binaryb3n on August 10, 2016, 07:39:53 amLike replacing the transformer?

author: blacksheeplogic
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2016, 08:23:47 am
content: Quote from: Binaryb3n on August 10, 2016, 07:39:53 amYou can replace or rewind the transformer. As I have a considerable investment in US equipment including soldiering gear I use a step down transformer. A small step-down is a lot cheaper than the 240V markup you will have to otherwise pay.

author: Binaryb3n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2016, 01:21:38 pm
content: Quote from: wraper on August 10, 2016, 08:02:09 amWell that's what I've read. I expect the transformer in the FM-203 to be different though, so I'm wondering if anyone has experience or knows if it'll be possible.Quote from: blacksheeplogic on August 10, 2016, 08:23:47 amGood to know it shouldn't be a huge issue then. Any thoughts one what to look for before buying a second hand soldering station?

author: Binaryb3n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 06:08:37 am
content: Well I was potentially foolish and actually splashed out on a 120V Hakko FM-206 station. Will be ordering the 240V replacement transformer, so hopefully that goes well..I'll update once it's working (or not working), but if anyone knows anything about changing out the 110V transformer and fuse for the 240V equivalent, I'd love some pointers.

author: karoru
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 06:17:43 am
content: It's low power device without any very fancy transformer, it just has to have twice number of windings on primary (usually made with thinner wire so form factor won't change) and fuse rating divided by two and that's all.Virtually any mains-rated part will also be rated for 240V operation so you don't have to worry about that. If you are desperate enough you could rewind the primary but it's a hard and time consuming job if you never winded a transformer before and honestly there are better ways to spend time on your hobby;)

author: Binaryb3n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 06:22:00 am
content: Thanks @karoru. The transformer itself is just another component in the station -http://www.tequipment.net/Hakko/B3677/In theory it should be plug and play, just change the fuse as well.My only genuine concern realistically is that there might be some difference in the firmware. Hakko seem to have a put a lot of effort into creating FUD around different USA vs. Rest of World models... I can't seem to find any differences though.I'm expecting the T12 and T15 tips to be compatible as well for example. But there's only one way to find out I suppose.

author: dew
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 21, 2024, 01:06:57 am
content: Looks like there are two transformers. For FM-206 it is B3676 for 100/110/120 V and B3677 for 220/230/240 V. PCBs on both are the same (part B3678). Voltage can be selected within 20V range only. Transformer replacement is required to switch between US/Japan/... and EU/Australia/... models.

author: say
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2024, 07:50:43 am
content: Hi Dew, What is that extra pin for on the primary side of the transformer.

author: dew
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2025, 02:44:16 am
content: That pin is connected to the one next to it. Its purpose escapes me, since there is no track to that pin on the board and there are no turns on the transformer. Directly connected. At least on 100-120V version (B3676)