Show us your soldering set up! (and a poll) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2013, 11:08:59 pm
content: Thought it might be interesting to have a unscientific poll to see what brand soldering iron or station everyone uses and to post photos and comments about their set up. Doesn't matter if all you have is a Radio Shack iron or a high end Metcal station with a Mantis scope. Let's see them all. If you have any unique tips on putting together a set up lets hear them.--------------------------------------------------I'm currently building a small dedicated bench that will be specifically for soldering/desoldering thru-hole and SMD projects with a inspection microscope, anti-static mat, tools, etc. to free up space on my main workbench for large projects and vintage restorations so I figure this is a good way to get ideas for my new set up.Here's a picture of what I currently use on my main workbench for working on vintage electronics:The old Weller station on the left which I use the most is 30+ years old and will probably outlast me.

author: AmmoJammo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 01:58:38 am
content: Quick!Its a 70watt iron from memory, bought it maybe 8 years ago through work.To be honest, it performs about the same as the JBC CD-2BB (we have one at work) and slightly worse than the Hakko FX951, Although the pencil and tip aren't as thin as the JBC or Hakko, so it takes some getting used to.

author: tiofilo75
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 08:00:43 am
content: This is my first iron. So far it has worked well for me. Dont have any complaints.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 08:49:59 am
content: Aoyue, but I learned the lesson, and buying a Hakko.

author: npnlamp
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 09:01:12 am
content: My soldering iron is Solomon, but soldering station for that iron is DIY

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 09:02:38 am
content: Quote from: JuKu on October 27, 2013, 08:49:59 amI've a Weller WX2 bought recently here on the forum. Been using Aoyue 2702+ before since 2008 on average about 5h a week. Never had a problem, thing still works like a charm. What was your "lesson" about?

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 09:37:56 am
content: Quote from: con-f-use on October 27, 2013, 09:02:38 amBasic lesson: You get what you pay for. Although it is good value for money, I should have paid more for faster heating, more stable temperature, more power, cooler and lighter handpiece and better quality tips.

author: JustinHV32
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 09:51:22 am
content: I second that on the Aoyue, I purchased a rework station. And was so poorly designed and put together it only lasted max 10 hours use. So I wont buy another. But other chinese brands have been OK. Just need to tweak them and perform a safety check before use. Anyway here's the iron I'll be using more and more from now on. On the left is a redesigned version of the fake FX-951 on the right. The controller and hand piece are a piece of junk, but the tips have been OK. The tips aren't matched very well, perform good enough for what I do. Still better to solder with than my old 936. Planning on making my own hand piece also. I knew I was buying a fake when purchased and when the performance/quality wasn't up to scratch you have almost everything to roll your own. There's still more to do.

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 10:02:15 am
content: I had two WECP20 stations with a LR20 and a modified LR20 to desolder-iron and a WE2001 station with anti static MR pencil. This was state of the art beginning of the 1990's when I bought and build them but quite old what I found out after buying on this forum a WX2 station with 65W, WXMP pencil and tweezers.For example, with the old setup it took quite awhile to heat up a headerpin that was connected to the groundplane (with the correct pcb layout, forgot the term but not massive connected but with 4 small traces). It took at least 4 seconds of continuous heating and even then it would not go smooth.Now with the new setup 2 seconds and it is totally up to temp, solder flows smooth and WOW what a great soldering experience.

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 10:37:44 am
content: Ersa i-con 2 with 2 i-Tools, Quick 861DS hot air and Jovy RE-7500 IR station.

author: Mr Simpleton
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 10:44:03 am
content: Have a few Weller but when started to do more SMD I got a Metcal instead of upgrading the Weller.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 03:04:57 pm
content: I use a Hakko 936 with various sized chisel tips. The solder holder was made from stuff around the garage and office. The orange substance in the hypodermic needle is Orange Crush non acid flux. The hypo allows precise placement. I agree, the solder holder is butt ugly but I wasn't willing to pay $15 USD and up for a 'fancy' holder that doesn't do anything different than mine. Ham radio operators have been called cheap. I prefer frugal in that we try to recycle anything we can to make what we need.Tom, NW0LF

author: willb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2013, 11:59:41 pm
content: I have a Weller WESD-51 which I'm overall happy with but I also have a bunch of Pace stuff which is what I mainly use. I have the PS-90 iron, SX-80 solder extractor, TJ-85 hot air jet, and TT-65 thermal tweezers, all running off ST-25 and ST-125 units. I wish I had more channels but 2 is good for now.

author: PaulAm
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 01:00:14 am
content: I had an old Ungar station, but recently upgraded to a Metcal MX500 with a handpiece and a desoldering gun. I also have a Fonton hot air station that showed up one day.Love the Metcal

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 01:15:22 am
content: Quote from: JustinHV32 on October 27, 2013, 09:51:22 amDo you have a link to that DIY iron set up? More info please!

author: rithien
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 01:32:11 am
content: I have a Pace ST-25 and Quick 861DS hot air

author: John Coloccia
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 02:23:51 am
content: Interesting that JBC and Metcal are running neck and neck.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 11:41:35 am
content: My setup consists of a Weller WD1, WSP80 + WMP irons, and WDH20T + WDH10 stands.

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 12:40:54 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrogHow do you like the WD1 and WSP80 iron? I have been looking for something with smaller tips for SMD in the $200-$300 range.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 01:30:19 pm
content: Quote from: SLJ on October 28, 2013, 12:40:54 pmBoth of nice to use, even for an extended period of time (quite comfortable). The WMP is specifically made for SMD, so that might be the better way to go, though the WSP80 will handle SMD quite well also.That said, it's on the pricey side unless you get a smoking deal somewhere (used?). The WDH10T or WDH20T are the Stop-n-Go stands, which are an option except with the WD1002T kit. I started with the WD1001, then added the WSP80 & most recently the Stop-n-G stand. By the time I add it all up, not including tips, I'm in excess of $400 and I didn't pay retail for any of the equipment. Either stop-n-go stand with work with either iron (only difference is the part that holds the tips, and it's just threaded metal inserts that get added for the NT tips). Oddly enough, the MSRP is less for the WD20T. Go figure.To give you a good idea of cost (new), if you grabbed a WD1002T + WMP, you'd be looking at ~$340 + ~$119 from Allspec.com (~$460USD total; it's a really good deal on the WD1002T). Toss in a reasonable selection of tips, and you could add another ~$100.QC isn't as consistent as it should be, particularly with tips. Not a massive problem though, as there are alternate tips for the LT series (fits WSP/WP80) from Plato (Techspray), and I've seen a seller on eBay that's importing clones from China (bought 2x to try, but just got them). NT tips (for WMP), are more expensive and Weller only.Due to the issues, particularly cost, you might want to take a serious look at a Hakko FX-951 here in the US ($262.77USD), and it includes a stand that attaches to the station for setback temp/auto off when the iron is placed in the stand. Hakko's tips are heavily plated, and the T15 series is quite reasonable, particularly for an AIO design (~$12 - 15 for common profiles, & goes up for more specialized profiles). Seems a lot more value IMHO than the Weller (unfortunately, the FX-951 wasn't out when I bought mine).Bit long, but I hope this helps.

author: andtfoot
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 02:16:18 pm
content: The main soldering iron I use at home is the Goot RX-711AS.Goot is the main brand of decent soldering stuff the the local electronics store (Jaycar) carries. I've used the Goot plug-into-the-wall jobbie for years now and found it quite good so I shelled out for the station.The station was pretty expensive, but it does the job well so far. I haven't had anything else though so I can't really compare that well.

author: oliver602
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 02:32:57 pm
content: A metcal STSS and Atten 858D. I have the stations on the shelf because I don't like the cables trailing on the desk.

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 04:25:24 pm
content: I use my Tesla ERS50. It is very long lasting, but the soldering tip is not perfect.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/picked-up-a-damaged-jbc-bd-1ba-station-advice/?action=dlattach;attach=64036;image

author: cyr
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 05:39:14 pm
content: I use a JBC DI-3000 with a T245 iron and tweezers, and also a cheap chinese hot air station that is mostly used for heatshrink.

author: willb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 06:31:14 pm
content: Here is a pic of my setup as described on the first page. I think the poll needs an option for PACE.Weller WESD51Pace ST25Pace ST125Pace PS-90 IronPace SX-80 SuckerPace TJ-85 Air JetPace TT-65 Tweezers

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 08:06:42 pm
content: Quote from: willbForgot about Pace. Added it at the end of the list.

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 08:19:22 pm
content: Quote from: wraper on October 27, 2013, 10:37:44 amDo you mind saying a few words on the Jovy? I've never used an IR station and have no idea how to and what they are used for. I'd be appreciated.

author: david77
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 09:03:28 pm
content: My main iron is a Weller WS50 with the LR-20 handpiece, before that I used different 230V irons and a cheapo Stannol station from Conrad. That one didn't last long.When I bought the Weller in 2001 it was a whole new soldering experience for me.As a secondary station I use a Zhongdi ZD-916, mainly when soldering bigger stuff. It isn't really a bad station, my main complaint being that the iron handle gets uncomfortably hot after some time and the heater elements don't inspire much confidence.The next investment in the soldering department will be a de-soldering setup and a smaller soldering iron for SMD work. The MLR-21 would be perfect but it was sadly discontinued. I'm also often toying with the idea to get a second hand WTCP station off ebay.

author: SCR
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2013, 11:53:22 pm
content: A Weller WECP-20 with an LR20, another WECP-20 with an MLR-21 as spare, and a Weller WD 1 with a WP80 for SMD work.The WECP-20/LR20 has been in use for more than twenty years now, but is less often used nowadays. The LR20 comes in handy with the DIL16 and DIL24 desolder tip when working on old gear though. Got the WD1/WP80 two years ago and it's really nice to work with, don't want to miss it.

author: edwardcurrentclamps
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2013, 12:35:40 am
content: I use a Pace MBT250. It is great how it combines soldering and desoldering in one compact case. It can operate three handpieces at the same time saving a lot of time. Just love it. It is a bit on the pricey side, but well worth the money. I'll post a pic of it once I moved my lab into the new warehouse.

author: Corporate666
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 29, 2013, 12:46:19 am
content: I have two Pace HW-100's, a Pace ST-70 and a Metcal MX-500. I have a Chinese import hot air station rebranded by Circuit Specialists as a "CSI 899A+"Of all, I prefer the HW-100's the most. They have nice slim tips, heat up fast, tips last *forever* (had the same tips for 5-6 years - must have soldered tens of thousands of things and they just never wear out). The HW-100 heats up quicker than the ST-70, I find. The Metcal seems to heat up no quicker than the HW-100, nor does it outperform it soldering large copper pours. And the Metcal chews through tips like they are going out of style. Best of all, the Pace tips are around $8-10/ea whereas the Metcal ones are more like $25/ea.

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 29, 2013, 01:03:30 am
content: Quote from: con-f-use on October 28, 2013, 08:19:22 pmI would say it is almost decent. Not some crap with halogen lamps. It has German ceramic heaters. Main disadvantage is a relatively small bottom heater so some boards may warp because of the uneven heating. Seems that they understood that and fixed in the new RE-8500 model. I mainly use it to change big BGA chips as hot air completely sucks in that field.

author: Kibi
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 29, 2013, 08:27:46 pm
content: I have a JBC DI-2B with T-245A hand-piece. Fantastic iron.I have an Atten 858D+ (safety checked and faults rectified) hot air station. There is also a Pace-like desoldering iron which I found in a bin, very good for through hole desoldering.I also use a paste dispensing controller and a cheap Argos toaster oven (with PID controller) for soldering SMT boards.

author: DL8RI
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 07:12:04 pm
content: In Use:Weller PU81+WSP80 for everyday-work;Weller WMD 3 for Desoldering and so on;Weller Pyropen-Piezo for "on the road"I've had other brands but at the moment I happen to be Weller only

author: lemon
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 07:44:04 pm
content: I use an Aoyue System by 2900 Soldering Station, 850C smd rework station and 474A+ desoldering station without any problem until now.

author: mamalala
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 07:50:50 pm
content: Metcal STSS-PS2V-02 and my DIY Metcal supply, together with an RM3E handpiece and Talon tweezers. Slowly growing assortment of tips, but my most preferred tip is the STTC-126.Greetings,Chris

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 08:16:27 pm
content: Quote from: mamalala on October 30, 2013, 07:50:50 pmWe demand pictures. And Cookies, if you get to it. But mostly pictures!

author: AmmoJammo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 08:27:48 pm
content: Do i win?

author: PA4TIM
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 08:30:58 pm
content: Pace MBT250 with 3 handpieces, A weller WSP81 and two small ERSA irons (15 and 18W), a OKI hot-airgun stationThis was before I found a NOS tweezer with stand

author: quint
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2013, 08:49:19 pm
content: For most soldering I use the Pace ST30 base with TD100 hand piece. It heats up within around 6 seconds and is a joy to use. I also have a Pace ST-115 base which I use mainly with an SX80 solder extractor and sometimes with a PS80 hand piece. Most of this equipment comes surplus from a local electronics manufacturer and some from Ebay. The TD100 I bought new from Pace because it is still hard to find those at a reasonable price on Ebay. The Pace ThermoFlo is a hot air unit also obtained surplus.

author: BeerCannon
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 12:51:59 am
content: Representing the n00bs with my Weller WLC-100, but I've got designs on a Hakko FX-888D from Santa...

author: Greyersting
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 01:01:10 am
content: I'm one of the few fools who uses a Radio Shack $10 iron. Next thing I am buying after a computer monitor is a good soldering iron.

author: flolic
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 08:50:32 am
content: My newly acquired JBCI also have few Hakko 936 clones and Atten 315D hi frequency soldering station, but they are not even close to JBC...

author: Fagear
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 05:09:23 pm
content: I'm using Goot PX-201 soldering iron.

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 01:25:30 pm
content: My new ESD soldering station is almost complete. Still using a Weller as the main soldering station on it. The microscope takes up a lot of room so I used a roll around computer stand for the set-up to free up space on the main workbench. Added a shelf on the left to raise the computer monitor up to eye level. I still need to add a small shelf on the right side with a tool tray built underneath. The pull-out keyboard tray on the cart is a good height for setting a circuit board holder on and the boom arm on the scope extends out over it perfectly.There's a X-TRONIC rework station behind the scope head under the monitor you can't see in the photo. A new desoldering tool is next. I'm leaning toward a Hakko 808 which would be just within my budget.

author: Kohanbash
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 02:20:10 pm
content: I use a WELLER WRS3000 rework station. It has 3 ports and supports irons, air, and vacuum. The air tends to not be that good so I have it connected to 2 irons with a small and large tip and then a desolder vaccum.I also use a WELLER WHA3000P with a foot petal. Having the foot pedal is great for SMD work.

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 02:04:40 am
content: I was using the Hakko FX-951 units, but upgraded to JBC.Here's the JBC DIT and JBC compact with micro-tweezers.(below)At the back-right is a DS-983A solder dispenser.On the left is the intake for the fume extractor.The rework equipment, a CSI-474A desoldering gun, and a CSI-825A+ hot air unit.

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 03:01:18 am
content: ^Would love to see the rest of your lab!

author: codeboy2k
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 04:29:46 am
content: Quote from: george graves on November 03, 2013, 03:01:18 amMe too. I'm digging the fume extractor made from some bad-ass flexible hose and a tweeterI think there's a squirrel cage blower under the desk

author: Vgkid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 05:03:06 am
content: For those who one one, how is the Aoyue 474A?

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 10:12:15 am
content: Quote from: Vgkid on November 03, 2013, 05:03:06 amRubbish. For a trough-hole desoldering, you want:-Good quality tips, so that you get good heat transfer from tip to pad.-Very good thermal capability of the tip, so that it can heat a ground plane connected pad, and keep it hot even with air flow cooling it.-Enough suction that ALL the solder comes off-Non-glogging design, the solder must come off the tip and end up in the collection chamber-Easy to clean collection chamberWith 474A, you don't get any of these.

author: Wann
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 10:53:13 am
content: Quote from: Vgkid on November 03, 2013, 05:03:06 amI have a 474A++.Yeah the tip isn't great. Apply some fresh solder or flux to the joint, before attempting to desolder. As long as you don't have to suck a complete board, I'm ok with that.Ground planes can be a pain in the a&#e.Everything else seems to be working as advertised. For the price I'm pretty happy with it.If you need to suck <10 joints a week it's ok. If you're sucking more go for a pro model.

author: plazma
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 12:07:01 pm
content: Metcal PS2V and AOYUE 2702+. AOYUE models with the long tips are much better than the cheaper models with short tips.

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 01:01:13 pm
content: Another happy ERSA user:- i-CON2 with an i-Tool (iron) and a ChipTool (tweezers)- Multitip 15W- Multitip 25W

author: Circuitous
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 05:10:39 pm
content: Quote from: george graves on November 03, 2013, 03:01:18 amHere it is:corgitronics.comClick the photos to zoom (most of them).Quote from: codeboy2k on November 03, 2013, 04:29:46 amYes, indeed there is.Here's a write-up.

author: Dave
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 05:16:23 pm
content: -Ersa i-CON 1-Weller WHS-40D-Aoyue 852A++Just got the Ersa. It's unbelievable how much easier it is to solder with compared to my Weller.

author: Clint
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 05:34:53 pm
content: Quote from: Dave on November 03, 2013, 05:16:23 pmThat is like comparing an old bottom of the range BMW to a new top of the range Skoda !

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 06:35:25 pm
content: There is no bottom of the range BMW.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 07:17:22 pm
content: 318i.............

author: djsb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2013, 08:22:41 pm
content: Pace MBT350 base unit (http://www.paceworldwide.com/products/conductive-rework-systems/mbt-350).TD100 Handpiece and stand.SX-90 SODR-X-TRACTOR and stand.MT100 MiniTweez Handpiece and stand.and a few bits for the TD100.Optional handpieces PS90 Universal soldering Iron,TJ85 ThermoJet precision air pencil (will add later) and many others.No photo's sorry.

author: mamalala
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 05, 2013, 07:32:22 pm
content: Quote from: con-f-use on October 30, 2013, 08:16:27 pmFair enough, here you go... Don't like cookies, but i'll give you some tasty Baklava.Greetings,Chris

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2013, 04:03:53 am
content: Lets see. I use a Metcal MX500 at my bench for the interchangeable tips, but slide over to an assemblers station to use a Weller WTCP for speed in through hole. I also have a moldy oldie Unger with many different tips and a big A*S heater cartridge and 1/2" tip for BIG terminals. Also one of those Black Jack hot air stations to remove chips. I like the metcal and its blade cartridges, but if I had to go to the desert island and could only take one. The Weller wtcp and many replacement tips, heaters, and mag switches would be it.

author: Pinkus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2013, 11:35:19 am
content: Quote from: oliver602 on October 28, 2013, 02:32:57 pmI do exactly the same. If you don't: give it a try.

author: Six_Shooter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2013, 03:51:47 am
content: I have some no name soldering station that has worked great for years. I haven't been too much into building electronics from scratch, except for simple circuits. Now that I'm in school for EET, I'm getting it to it a LOT more.I have another soldering station, that I'll have to get a picture of later, since it's in my locker at school right now. It has a built in fume extractor. I plan to modify it eventually to separate the fume extractor from the soldering section.

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2013, 10:31:30 am
content: I have, and like, the Ersa i-Con nano, though I'm not a heavy user.Photos in this thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/ersa-vs-hakko-soldering-stations-and-a-question-on-'anti-static'/msg203446/#msg203446

author: TheBay
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 12, 2013, 07:56:42 pm
content: Weller WSD 80 with WSP 80 and various tips, also a selection of Gas irons for automotive use

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2013, 08:53:34 pm
content: this is my "lab" i am using the Xytronic LF-389D soldering station it is very good and i would recormend it. my lab at the moment is a bit make shift at the moment.the quality of the photos is not good as i took them on my phone

author: creyc
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2013, 05:15:06 am
content: Here's the current setup quite basic but functional:

author: TheBorg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2013, 05:43:34 am
content: Haha, got my iron as a christmas gift, its a Make: rebranded cheap station. Good for basic use. Planning on getting a Hakko 936/937 or a Weller, hopefully around new years.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2013, 09:23:19 am
content: Quote from: creyc on December 13, 2013, 05:15:06 amlove the red hotair gun

author: creyc
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2013, 12:26:13 pm
content: Quote from: M. András on December 13, 2013, 09:23:19 amhaha oh thats trogdor, the burninatorReal hot air gun is that black hose on the far left.

author: j-man
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2017, 12:19:30 pm
content: 1 - Weller WTCP-S with two 50w irons. One with a new, tiny tip for precision work and one with an older, bigger tip for everything else. I got it since the early '90s and it still works fine: a periodic maintenance on the Magnastat switch is required.2 - Lukey 902 combo station: it's a repackaging of 850 Plus (hot air) and 936 (soldering iron). Chinese stuff, but it worked for almost ten years. Then I dropped the air gun on the floor and broke it. Waiting for spare parts..3 - Weller DSX80 desoldering tool connected to an old station (no brand). Still looking for the right solution to get enough air suction...

author: IDEngineer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2017, 07:51:01 pm
content: * Hakko FX-951 station with various tips, favorites are the ultra-thin curved one and the huge thermal mass tip that's great for ground planes and large gauge wire.* Hakko FR-300 hollow-tip vacuum desoldering gun with various tips. Don't know how I lived so long without one.* Cheap eBay 858D hot air station, personally rewired the AC side to be safe, have had to replace the heating element once (so far!), but does a reasonable job....and various hand tools from ultra-fine stainless tweezers to great big linesman pliers, just depends on the task!

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 28, 2017, 08:36:35 pm
content: A bit of an upgrade here since my first post. I have a Hakko FX-951, a Metcal MX-500, a Yihua 858D hot air station and a ZDS-985 desoldering pump. Plus tips for both, various solder/braid and liquid flux. I built a rolling equipment rack out of stuff in the garage that fits under my workbench that I can pull out if necessary. There is also a Metcal Talon tweezers with stand that I don't use and am considering listing for sale. i have to ponder and ruminate on that a bit yet.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2017, 08:47:01 pm
content: I'd have thought you were using the Talon tweezers to quickly & easily lift SMD passives for diagnostics over hot air.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 02:12:37 am
content: I got it with TATC 603 tips which is for lifting ICs. The TATC-601 tips are way out of my non-existent budget. I don't play with smd enough and I have the 2 irons that I can use to lift passives and hot air. Now that I have a vehicle again, I am thinking of putting a 2 meter mobile transceiver in it. I have a good antenna, just need the radio and NMO mount. I also have an Astron VS-35M that has almost no use on it that I will probably also get rid of to get to that goal. It's nice to have a 2nd vehicle again, especially being that it is my old company van, a 2013 Ram Tradesman CV, but at the same time, SWMBOs car left the building with Elvis and now we have a car payment again plus insurance for 2 vehicles, so money is quite tight right now. I used the Talon once, just to verify that it works. I don't know what I am going to do yet, I have emptied out the garage of all the old ham gear that people have given me so there is nothing left to get rid of.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 03:31:47 am
content: This is my PACE ST45 I bought new in April 2004 from Jensen Tools. It still has the original tips and heater. These are designed for production use. The only problem I had is one time I turned it on and somehow the memory was corrupt and I was locked out of it. I posted on this site how I ended up resetting the password. That was only a few years ago and it has not happened again. None of that fancy desolder equipment here. Soldapullt DS017 and my Weller Heat gun. Made this short clip some time ago when someone had asked about solder suckers showing how I hold mine. Owned a blue plastic Weller station before this. Hands down, the PACE has been a better iron.Price on these may seem on the high side but consider that you may own your iron for 10 years or more. IMO, buy something that you like.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/pace-sodrtek-st-45-factory-reset/

author: boffin
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 04:35:37 am
content: This is my setup. Do I win the 'oldest Weller' award?

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2017, 04:37:26 am
content: I use Pace PRS-2000 (aka PPS-400) stations (I have several of them) will all the accessories and a butt load of tips. These units have three tool channels (iron, sucker, tweezers, thermo picks, etc). Also a resistance soldering channel (2V 70A) for resistance soldering and wire stripping. Also a vacuum pick and solder paste dispenser pump. And probably a few things I don't remember. A complete new system from Pace runs around $6000! If you look up "Pace" in the dictionary it translates as "YOU WANT HOW MUCH!?"

author: MikeP
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2017, 10:38:33 am
content: ERSA Analog 60. Used for more than 15 years. I did not see anything better.

author: richnormand
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 03:27:50 am
content: OK I'll bite:here is mine in my home basement lab.In the pic:Pace HeatWave hot air and heated plate preheat for rework.Pace SensaTemp PPS25 and PS90 with 6 assorted tip.Pace ThermoDrive with resistive tweezers, resistive wire stripper, desoldering vacuum iron (very useful) and minichine (not that useful if you have a Dremel)Weller WX2 with WXMP MS 55W (5 tips, really good for smd), WXP 120W with 3 tips and WXMT MS tweezers (80W with two set of tips for smd and ic)Sunco hot air wand with a lot of adapters for various ICs desoldering and heat shrink applications.

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 03:39:25 am
content: Quote from: richnormand on September 02, 2017, 03:27:50 amThe Minichine has the magic foo power of being able to stop instantish-ly when the bit touches a trace (if the trace is connected to the sense lead). It's intended to do things like removing solder mask over a trace.BTW, the Pace solder suckers have what they call "snap vac". They overdrive the pump when you first press the trigger. Makes for better suckage of the slobber...

author: richnormand
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 04:02:41 am
content: Quote from: texaspyro on September 02, 2017, 03:39:25 amMy Pace is pretty old unit and the flexible drive cable for the minichine has a lot of slop. I find that a nice new scalpel under the 3D scope gives me a lot more control. A quick polish with the Dremel with a CircuitMedict patch or even a bit of flux and solder works well.I do have to wonder why Pace is so under represented in the poll.

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2017, 04:26:53 am
content: That's the mechanical Minichine with the flex cable. They also have an electronic version with the electronic brake.

author: bingo600
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 10:12:52 am
content: I use a metal st2pv for soldering and a mx500 for the tweezersHave a QuickTime 202d as backup , and aoye as hotair/Bingo

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 10:37:25 am
content: Quote from: richnormand on September 02, 2017, 04:02:41 amIn EU there are few and with very high prices, and doesn't show up much.Metcal show up much in EU and also in US, specially the MX-500 and the ST2PV, the MX-500 can be rewired from 110V to 230V, I don't know about the ST2PV.The only drawback for me on the ST2PV is the output on the back, but they are cheap.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 01:19:38 pm
content: Quote from: Nuno_pt on September 03, 2017, 10:37:25 amUndoubtedly why the RM3E cord is so long. Speaking of cheap, the local surplus has over a dozen Metcal power supplies, tested, but I don't know the model number, for $35 USD.

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 01:40:25 pm
content: Quote from: Nuno_pt on September 03, 2017, 10:37:25 amAlso, the Pace units use different transformers for 120 / 220V. You can just flip a switch or rewire the primaries.

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 04:38:43 pm
content: Quote from: GreyWoolfe on September 03, 2017, 01:19:38 pmHere I'm looking at some PS2V for 40€ in EU, so no customs only shipping witch should be around 15€.Maybe I'll get one to make a match with my MX-500P.

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 04:45:21 pm
content: Quote from: texaspyro on September 03, 2017, 01:40:25 pmThat's what I has looking for, to see if the transformers of 110V can be arrange the primary for 230V in EU.I've been also looking at the ST45 SensaTemp, and the new ST45 SODRTEK, but can't see any pictures of the trafos on the web to see if they have to 115V taps to wire them together for 230V.Herehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/pace-st45/is an image but from a new ST75 witch show to 115V taps on the primary, so I expect the new models to have similar transformers.

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 05:41:11 pm
content: The 220V models of the earlier units have numbers that end in "E" (E means export).

author: Nuno_pt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 05:51:18 pm
content: The ST45 SensaTemp that I'm talking about is the ones with black case and with the up/down keys in blue/red, not the ones with green LCD with yellow keys (I suppose this are the older units).The ST45 SODRTEK are the new units with grey case and up/down keys also in blue/red.Those are the models that I'm currently looking.This will be to replace my Atten rework station, so I just miss the hot air.maybe one PACE PPS85AE would be good, since they have 3 channels and air pump, for hot air and desoldering gun, this could be a good bet.

author: martinr33
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2017, 06:28:49 pm
content: I have Pace, JBC and Metcal (MX5000). I have not used the Pace since I got the Metcal, and I use the JBC for almost everything. The MX5000 is a useful upgrade from the MX500.The small JBC handpiece is amazingly fast - heats up from cool almost before you can get to the workpiece. This speed is why it gets so much use. The overall system is also compact when compared to the Metcal.The Metcal has a lot of power. Both can handle heavy ground copper.By comparison, the (older) Pace is really slow as it uses conventional heating techniques. Takes 45 seconds to get anywhere. For desoldering, the Pace systems son't seem to have changed.The newer Pace soldering systems have tip heaters, so should be much quicker. However, they took longer to get to market with these, as did Weller.

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 12:27:30 am
content: I've been using this Weller for three years now at the SMD workstation. Been very happy with it. Still using the older Wellers on the analog bench.Quote from: boffin on August 29, 2017, 04:35:37 amNice one but no. See here:I've actually picked up quite a few vintage soldering irons and guns over the years.Decided to post many of them here and just added a few more:Soldering Iron Collection

author: ruairi
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 12:36:51 am
content: Quote from: martinr33 on September 03, 2017, 06:28:49 pmCan you elaborate a little on what you find better? I'm using an SP200 setup at the moment and love it but need to get a desoldering gun. I have the choice of either used MX500 with DS1 or there's a local offering of a new MX5200 rig.Thanks,Ruairi

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 03:45:40 am
content: Quote from: texaspyro on September 03, 2017, 05:41:11 pmSeems far more likely to me that the "E" stands for "Europe", because plenty of countries outside USA use 120V power. (There may well have been versions for Japan  and UK  as well.)

author: texaspyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 05:51:28 am
content: Quote from: tooki on November 04, 2017, 03:45:40 amNope, docs say "E" is for "Export".

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 08:02:36 am
content: Quote from: texaspyro on November 04, 2017, 05:51:28 amWhat does that ultimately translate to though?230/240V mains? Or something else?Please understand, I'm not trying to be contrary, but rather get to the details of what's up in regard to different markets (100/120VAC vs. 230/240VAC mains input voltage & relevant wall plug).

author: Rolo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 08:35:03 am
content: Hakko FX-888D. (Genuine).

author: TiN
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2017, 11:28:30 am
content: ERSA iCON1 + Aircare 101 dual head fume extractor.Set of tips:

author: Neomys Sapiens
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2017, 03:01:49 am
content: Weller WMD1S, WSD151, EC2002, WECP20 AntistaticwithLR21, LR21ESD, MLR-21, DSX-80. DS-22, HAP-1, WSP80, WSP150, and WTA-50

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2019, 04:02:05 am
content: My PACE ST45 is going to be 15 years old this year. Shown with the original tips. It's held up well. I used to use the old 45W Weller to solder circuit boards together to make cases and such. I had a Weller station before the PACE but something went wrong and it would no longer regulate.Maybe this year PACE will release the tweezers for their new iron and I will finally upgrade.

author: xmo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2019, 05:09:46 am
content: I have used a lot of different soldering equipment over the years - Ungar, Antex, American Beauty, OK, and Weller. I probably used Weller more than the others until I discovered Pace. I was a few $$ ahead one time so I splurged on the MBT250 system. The SX series desoldering handpieces and the PS90 iron & assorted tips have worked well for me.More recently I added the newer WJS100 with the soldering iron and tweezers. I really like the way the thermodrive integrated heater-tip cartridges work. They have incredible heat recovery and will hit operating temperature from power-on in about 6 seconds.I also have Pace fume extraction.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2019, 12:38:34 pm
content: Your tweezers are what I use for work. These are really nice. The old ones like mine are clumsy to use on small SMD parts, which anymore is about all I use them for. The handles can get uncomfortable from the heat. They are a bit of a pain to align when you swap tips. The new setup will be a welcome upgrade.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 02, 2019, 01:02:12 pm
content: New arrangement on the workbench and a different piece of equipment. The Yihua 858D has been replaced by the Quick 957DW. It definitely works better than the Yihua and the price was right. The multimeter does look a bit out of place but it is at eye level when using it. I had it on the shelf above but it is easier on the neck where it is.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 06, 2019, 03:06:17 pm
content: Call me old fashion. This has been my "go to" soldering iron for the past 45 years and still works fine.Ungar Imperial

author: AmmoJammo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 10:24:46 am
content: I used this for a few weeks...Yup, its a hot stick, with a pointlessly fancy interface...

author: ct1bxt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 03:17:43 pm
content: Hi,on my side, for a long time, soldering, WELLER.First the WTCP 51, after WSD 81.Desoldering, ERSA DDS-60 and now also AOYUE 8800Rodrigo

author: DDunfield
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 04:14:21 pm
content: Wow! - It's amazing how much of this cra^H^H^Hfine equipment you collect over the years!For electronics, I mainly use the Edsyn for "course" stuff and the Hakko for finer stuff (better tips). The ancient Weller on the left has a homemade super-fine tip that I used for individual SMD pins (see close-up above) , although I have one for the Hakko now that's a bit better. The china 858D works well enough for occasional hot-air. The Aoyue is a passable if not great desoldering station as long as you are willing to give it frequent T.L.C. ... sadly I can't seem to find tips for the Weller any more.Gas and gun are big and small non-electronics. I have to admit it's been quite some time since the coal-fired one has seen action!Dave

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 06:21:44 pm
content: Quote from: med6753 on January 06, 2019, 03:06:17 pmI had one of those irons before I got my Wellar station. I don't remember why I stopped using it. It seems like it was a mechanical failure in the heater connection or something. I also had a princess which was the first iron I used for SMD work. It's heater failed.I wouldn't know what to do with all these fancy menus on the JBC. Does it play Doom?

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 11:15:01 pm
content: Quote from: joeqsmith on January 07, 2019, 06:21:44 pmNot Doom, Quake and Duke Nukem.

author: Neomys Sapiens
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2019, 11:28:54 pm
content: That JBC 'Heavy Duty' station shown by AmmoJammo is positively ingenious. I've got it at work and the real good thing are the tips they make for it. First solution for desoldering N stripline connectors with generous ground from a Rogers teflon substrate without destroying it.In the 'to go' capacity, I keep a Weller W60/W61 in 110 and 220V, but my favorite is the Edsyn920.Also nice is the Ersa TC70, but the tips are hard to come by now. Maybe I'll get the new Ersa.Also, an Ersa Isotyp comes handy when having to work with live systems.

author: particleman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 08, 2019, 02:29:05 am
content: I use an Edsyn Loner. Like it a lot.

author: AmmoJammo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2019, 08:04:32 am
content: Quote from: Neomys Sapiens on January 07, 2019, 11:28:54 pmWe've destroyed the tips in this iron in about 50 hours of heavy use...My cheapo Hakko knock off tips actually lasted better... Although I was using two irons on each joint.... #engineerswhocan'tdesignboardsproperlyI don't mean "worn out" I mean completely, and utterly destroyed...

author: nihtila
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2019, 08:47:55 am
content: I bought this Metcal SP200 second hand from another DIYer maybe 7-8 years ago. Such a great piece of kit. Nothing extra, just power switch!Got it with a bunch of tips as well so was a good deal, those Metcal tips can be pricey.Also have the 858D hot air for occasional use but I don't actually use it much. Even if removing ICs I prefer Chipquik to have more control over the heat.Fume extractor is from Maplin (RIP).

author: Neomys Sapiens
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 11, 2019, 10:34:41 pm
content: Just in and unboxed: I added the WST82 thermal wire stripper to my Weller setup. Sigh - another thing that sits on my desk and begs and nags to get it's accessories completed.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 12, 2019, 01:37:51 am
content: Quote from: Neomys Sapiens on January 11, 2019, 10:34:41 pmAre you sure it's not just the voices in your head? I hear them all the time.

author: L_Euler
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2019, 03:27:07 pm
content: Weller stuff, I need to get a hot air system at some point.

author: iJoseph2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2020, 01:05:23 pm
content: I've got a 45w Weller PU-2D with a couple of no.7 tips.I was blown away the frist time I used it a couple of years ago so for me it's a brilliant iron.

author: Orycho
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 01, 2020, 05:47:48 pm
content: 8 Bucks soldering iron, it works very well.No one could be cheaper than mine in the forum.

author: ferdieCX
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2020, 06:39:38 pm
content: Happy ERSA user since 1971:- I still have and occasionally use my beloved ERSA 30- i-CON2 with an i-Tool (iron), a ChipTool (tweezers), X-Tool (desoldering tool) and PowerTool 80 (iron)- Multitip C25 iron

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2020, 08:07:40 pm
content: Quote from: Orycho on January 01, 2020, 05:47:48 pmI'm sure there's someone on here who owns one of thehorrific $2 irons from eBaythat are so bad the wires come out if you tug on the cord!