Which Weller Iron? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 12:36:57 pm
content: Weller (EU) have offered carte blanche any iron in their inventory for use in future videos. Which one(s?) would you like to see?Strangely, they have some irons that are exclusive to the EU, like these:http://www.weller.de/de/Weller--Produkte--Produkt-Details.html?article_id=D0176894001404467503A158#%7B%22string%22:%22%22,%22current_site%22:%22weller%22,%22current_brand%22:%22Weller%22%7Dandhttp://www.weller.de/de/Weller--Produkte--Produkt-Details.html?article_id=D0040864001408109708A74#%7B%22string%22:%22%22,%22current_site%22:%22weller%22,%22current_brand%22:%22Weller%22%7DThe WX seems middle of the road, maybe equivalent to the JBC I have?:http://www.weller-toolsus.com/soldering/systems/wx-series

author: continuo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 12:53:35 pm
content: My vote would be on the WX series. Very expensive but still within enthusiast range. WS series is nothing special and the irons above WX are way to expensive for hobbyists

author: VK5RC
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 12:57:32 pm
content: My first good soldering station a WD1000 looks likely to be replaced by the WX 1010. That would get my vote for a heavy/long term review.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 01:00:17 pm
content: The standard everyday iron is the WP-80 or the WSP-80. Get a station which accepts that.If they will send you it, get a WR 3000M set. That is the absolute best, once you used it, never go back.I've used iron from the WX range, it felt like a toy, and the running cost is insane. RTW 1 replacement tip for 100 EUR???

author: nfmax
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 01:05:20 pm
content: Dave - get them to explain to you exactly what the differences are between the WP-80 & WSP-80

author: KermitDK
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 01:09:27 pm
content: I would go for the WX - If someone forced me to replace my JBC.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 01:10:12 pm
content: Quote from: nfmax on September 25, 2015, 01:05:20 pmThe barrel. The WP, you can hold much closer to the tip.

author: agehall
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 01:17:30 pm
content: I got myself a WX2021 a while ago and I'm very halo with that one. Combine it with a more heavy duty iron and you should have a very nice setup.

author: ElektronikLabor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 02:22:41 pm
content: I use WX2021 station at work: excelent Station and the tips heat up veeery fast.But I don't like the user interface. The touch buttons respond after a delay and sometimes the don't respond at all. Also there are some key combinations which are not obvious: once the iron didn't heat up and I didn't know why. After reading the manual I found out that there is a key combination which turn off the iron and keep it switched off even if you restart the whole station.

author: GNU_Ninja
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 02:47:48 pm
content: This is the one I use at work: WD1000T Bit pricey for what you get, but you can say that about all Weller stuff.http://www.weller.de/de/Weller--Produkte--Produkt-Details.html?article_id=D0146601001379336384A107601#Its a nice iron.

author: AF6LJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 02:48:04 pm
content: This will be interesting to see since I haven't replaced my WTCPT station since I bought it in 1994, it might be time to upgrade.

author: hayatepilot
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 03:00:31 pm
content: I'd vote on the WX Series or the WD Series.The WD is cheaper and would probably adress more people but the expensive WX would probably have more engineering porn.Greetings

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 03:43:05 pm
content: I have one of these:http://www.weller-toolsus.com/soldering/systems/wsm-series/weller-wsm1c-wsm-1c-rechargeable-soldering-stat-120v.htmlThis is the current EU version:http://uk.farnell.com/weller/whs-mc-uk-eu/soldering-station-40w-230v-battery/dp/1729968It's fantastic and you can to move it around the lab or take out out of the lab with ease. It's also isolated from ground, if/when you need that, there are 3 18650 cells powering it so it can run on a charge for quite a long time. The RT tips are excellent (but expensive).

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 03:56:34 pm
content: Take the fanciest system you can get and show us what it can do. Above the budget of most of us but will expand our horizon.

author: Smith
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 04:55:45 pm
content: It would be nice to see the WXR 3030 rework station or equivalent. Yes its expensive, but there are not that many reviews about rework stations. We have bought a WRM 3000 rework station at work about 3 years ago, and it was the best investment we have ever done (better than new scopes, meters, handtools etcetera). People don't really believe how nice and good it works, until they try themselves. Everyone who used it wants one.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 05:04:54 pm
content: Are sales so bad for Weller? Perhaps people (finally) noticed they keep replacing tips on a Weller iron and spend a boat load of money on tips in the long runI have used Wellers in the past and I always had a whole bunch of spare tips in my drawer. I have been using Ersa irons in my own lab for over a decade and noticed the tips last an eternity (set at 330 deg C and no auto-power-off). Still I see a Weller soldering station every now and then and it always amazes me how piss poor the state of the tip is.Let me get to the point: what would interesting is to use the soldering station to do a side-by-side test/comparison with various brands to see how long the tips last.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 05:16:17 pm
content: My vote is for the WXR 3030. I know if I can get a free top of the line station to play with and use in videos, I would jump on it. Besides, just some more equipment porn for us to get jealous over

author: AF6LJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 07:27:21 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 25, 2015, 05:04:54 pmOne of the reasons I bought the replacment Weller iron I did was because I had tips that dated back to the late seventies that were still good, because they had been properly taken care of in spite of tens of thousands of hours of operation.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 09:41:56 pm
content: Assuming they wouldn't adjust the kit or send additional accessories for the WXR kit, I'd opt for the WX1010 (or other version that includes the general purpose WXP120 iron).Quote from: nfmax on September 25, 2015, 01:05:20 pmAs mentioned, it's in the tip-to-grip distance.On the WSP80, the tip retainer is separate from the grip. But Weller decided to integrate the tip retainer and grip into a single assembly (entire grip screws/unscrews) to get it a bit shorter by about 6mm or so IIRC.Quote from: nctnico on September 25, 2015, 05:04:54 pmAn electron microscope would certainly be handy (measure the plating thickness).Anyone have access to one?Quote from: GreyWoolfe on September 25, 2015, 05:16:17 pmCouple of notes as configured...Pros:Would give Dave a chance to test their desolder tech.Flexible regarding the irons available, including tweezers, a solder pot, and hot plate.Cons:The WXP65 iron included in the kit is on the small side, as it's meant for SMD work (65W; updated version of the WMP). The WXP120 is the general purpose iron for the WX series, and would be more appropriate IMHO (upgraded replacement for the WP80).Hot air pencil is only 200W, so only suited for smaller packages and heat shrink (great for cell phone repair). Non-upgradeable.Quote from: AF6LJ on September 25, 2015, 07:27:21 pmNot quite so far back for me, but I used the same reasoning when I bought my current station (was after inexpensive, quality tips and better performance than a 936/888).QC is definitely all over the place, but COO makes a huge difference IME. Bosnia seems to be the source for the crappy tips for me (German and Japanese have been fine thus far). FWIW, there are 3rd party sources, such as Plato.There's even Chinese production (not sure if this is a good or bad thing yet).

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:31:55 pm
content: Base system:WD-1 controllerWSP80 pencil for everyday work ( This is like the gold standard iron. indestructible )MPR80 pencil for difficult to reach area's (It looks weird but it is incredibly useful for working under a mantis, or for soldering a part trapped between big components. like a 0805 inbetween two fat electrolytics.For fine pitch work:WD-2M controllerWMRP as soldering pencilWMRT as soldering tweezers.This pencil is so small and light it is a dream to work with. the Tweezers are ideal to pluck 0201 to 2512 and many other SMD off a board...As rework system :WR-3000MThis is a dream to work withThe WR-3 controller in this system also accepst the WMRP WMRT and the WSP80 and MPR80As hot air system (for BGA and big TQFP rework)WHP3000 preheaterWHA3000P Hot air stationShot Meter ( paste/flux dispensing)KDS834ATip cleaner:Weller Clean-o-point tip cleaner (motorized) This is actually a rebranded ELVO tip cleaner.Trust me, i have all of those. ( and a bunch more, such as Microtouch MT1500's (discontinued) HAP100 , WHA300 WRS3000 and some others )

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:33:28 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 25, 2015, 05:04:54 pmIt would take years to do that test!

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:42:47 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 25, 2015, 11:33:28 pmSome tips go bad really quick (which is my experience with Weller and to a lesser extend with JBC). A couple of weeks should be enough to see which tips can be cleaned and made to take solder over the entire surface again and which not.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:45:52 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 25, 2015, 11:42:47 pmI can't think of a more boring test, I think I'll pass!

author: John Coloccia
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:51:21 pm
content: I've found that my JBC tips last a long time. I'm still on my original tips, and I probably do more soldering than most, unless you're doing production soldering every day. I added it up once, and the wear seems to be pretty much in line with the life estimates on their website.Personally, I'd simply tell them I'm not that familiar with their current lineup, and I'd ask them to use their judgement and send me something that would impress me and my viewers. IMHO it's all about recovering from a some missteps and quality problems (especially their tips, which drove me away to Hakko). I'd give them a shot to show me what they've got and win me back. The rework stations look pretty neat, but I don't think they really incorporate their latest, sexy technologies, whatever that is, so I'd want to give them a chance to show off what they can bring to the table moving forward, and they're probably in the best position to judge what exactly that is.Just my $.02.edit:FWIW, I think there are a good number of people like me that are hand soldering products (often very difficult to build products) that are always looking for something better in our solder stations. Better recovery...better tip geometries, more comfortable handles (especially ones that don't heat up), nice features like simple tip changes. We have no brand loyalty. We just want to make perfect joints as quickly and easily as possible so we don't have to do so much rework. This is a nice chance for Weller to start winning us back.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2015, 11:57:46 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 25, 2015, 11:45:52 pmIt would be interesting to settle this once and for all... Finally something different after the 1 millionth multimeter and 1000th oscilloscope. An NL consumer magazine published a test about toilet paper recently. One would say that is a rather boring test but it helped me to finally determine which type/brand of toilet paper is good out of the large selection of brands/types you can buy. The point: a test which looks dull and boring can give unexpected results which can be of great help to your viewers. Has anyone ever tested & compared soldering tips from various brands?

author: bson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 05:44:25 am
content: My vote goes to the WX2021 and a full complement of irons. I think this is a sweet spot for EEs doing personal projects at home, other serious hobbyists, and vocational training.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 05:48:09 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 25, 2015, 11:57:46 pmI think you've missed the point - Ipersonallydon't find that sort of test interesting - ergo, I have little interest in doing it.Sure the result might be interesting (or not), but it needs someone who's interested in doing that testing.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 07:06:27 am
content: I don't intend to break your balls over this but I'd just like to point out that such a test may be the part of your job you don't like but has to be done. Like every job has it's chores. Just saying.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 07:07:15 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 26, 2015, 07:06:27 amAre you serious?

author: Georgitsu
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 07:38:53 am
content: Go for the WX series! As you said, it's pricier than your standard hobbyist irons, but it's really pretty cool.We got one for work, and it has some really neat features - the tweezer iron tips for instance. But most of all, I want to see your reaction to its quirksThe unboxing experience and initial turn-on should be... interesting

author: donkey77
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 07:51:03 am
content: I recently got a WRX3032 from TOPWinner on here along with the tweezers and have had no problems with it so far, I upgraded from a WD1000 unit with a single iron and a cheap desoldering tool that was very temperamental. I haven't had a problem with tips on weller irons, I've got a couple of spares/different sizes but thought £5 or so each wasn't expensive. I would be interested/gutted to hear your review of it (depending how it goes). If you are going to test the WX series you may as well go for this one as you can test the complete range with it. I also bought a WRK chip kit to use with it. Ask for one of those as well and see how you find it! It might just be me but I haven't had much luck!

author: TopLoser
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 08:53:53 am
content: Well whenever I've offered Weller stuff up for sale the things that sell quickest are the WX1 and WX2 power units with WXP65 and WXP120 irons (cheap tips compared to the sexy WXMP pencil). The WXMT tweezers are also popular.The WR series 2 and 3 channel rework stations with hot air and desoldering tools are popular at the right price, I've had a lot of interest in those.Workhorse has to be the WD1 and 80W iron, but the WD2M is a much more versatile power unit as it accepts the micro tools (iron and tweezers) which aren't supported by the WD1.Nobody seems at all interested in any of the stations that need external air to generate vacuum, I can't give those bloody things away.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 09:16:19 am
content: QuoteIf you do upgrade then don't get rid of your WTCP - you may need it to repair your nice shiny electronic one sometime.

author: Towger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 11:31:26 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 25, 2015, 12:36:57 pmI hope this is just for normal use and a teardown/review and they don't want you to sell you soul by removing all other iron brands from future videos.Btw Not that you have a soul to sell in the first place. :-)

author: Augustus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 11:34:00 am
content: Btw, would be a good opportunity to do some more soldering vids (techniques, equipment etc.), quite a lot of time has passed since you did the last ones

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 02:06:42 pm
content: Quote from: Augustus on September 26, 2015, 11:34:00 amAnd information in it become completely obsolete, because the sheer amount of new technology invented since that. Also they were quite incomplete, because it didn't show how to solder with a hammer.What exactly more do you want about soldering???

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 02:15:41 pm
content: Quote from: Towger on September 26, 2015, 11:31:26 amThe likelihood of that is precisely zero.I will make it very clear to them that future tutorials may or may not use their iron, and may or may not mention and recommend other brands as well.Their call on whether they want still participate.Only company I've ever had pull out after hearing that was Lecroy a few years back. Obviously that someone is not there any more, because they sent me one the other month, absolutely no strings attached. In fact they didn't even tell me what one it was, and didn't seem to care what I did with it

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 02:17:35 pm
content: Quote from: NANDBlog on September 26, 2015, 02:06:42 pmI've had in mind a highly polished very short (sub 10min) soldering tutorial. My other ones, although incredibly popular, are way too long.

author: Augustus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 02:19:02 pm
content: Quote from: NANDBlog on September 26, 2015, 02:06:42 pmI like to watch them, should I feel bad about that?

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 03:41:15 pm
content: my last weller was the wesd51.a few nice things about it: nice spring holder (why don't more vendors use springs? hakko style is not as user friendly); the cord to the pencil is anti-burn (saved my ass a few times); there is an inactivity timer so if you forget, you dont' end up leaving it on (also useful for folks like me, lol); you can see the set point and the current point with digital (can't see current point with a dial).I used this for a few years before I got hooked on the metcal stuff. now, its hard to go back and I'll probably stick with a metcal-style system from now on, but for the lower priced stuff, that weller digital was a good deal and I recommend that one over most others for folks starting out.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 03:55:51 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 26, 2015, 07:07:15 amDead serious. Just look at any thread about soldering irons. There is no real information about which tips are bad and which are actually good. Doing a review of a soldering iron usually is limited to at 'well this is easy to adjust' ... 'the tips are hard to change' but the most important part is always skipped: the quality of the tips. Ofcourse a brand new tips picks up solder very well but how does it do that in the long run? Do you end up with tips which will only pick up solder at a tiny spot if it has been on for a few days. How expensive are replacement tips and how many do you need? IMHO it is very interesting for people to know if the tips for a certain soldering iron last a decade or whether it goes through tips fast (and the business model of the manufacturer is probably based on selling the iron at a loss and make money on the tips).Idea: You could even do a timelaps video on the tips get black and cruddy.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 04:21:52 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 26, 2015, 07:07:15 amnctnico, I would escalate it to his supervisor.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 04:26:34 pm
content: Yeah, I'll call Dave^2 over the phone on Monday.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2015, 06:13:04 pm
content: Quote from: zapta on September 26, 2015, 04:21:52 pmyou think you're at amazon, do you?lol

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 27, 2015, 01:47:13 pm
content: My vote is for the WX3030 stations as well.

author: Neganur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 27, 2015, 05:15:58 pm
content: I don't think the WX3030 set is realistic to test since it's more a rework station set than a soldering iron thing. (Unless you meant just the WX3 station)Perhaps a station like TopLoser suggested, the WD2M or a WX2 (the ones that take take two irons) and then get a set of different irons:(Is there a WD2M for Europe actually...? I only see it when I set the page to U.S.(WX2: WXMP(55 W micro pencil), WXMT(80 W micro tweezer), WXP65 and WXP120 (65 W and 120 W pencils).WD1M: WMRP(micro pencil),WMRT(micro tweezer), WSP80 (generic lean 80 W pencil)The WSP80 that FreeElectron mentions is a very nice iron but I'm not sure it's compatible with the WD2M station? website is unclear

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2015, 07:07:45 pm
content: Quote from: Neganur on September 27, 2015, 05:15:58 pmThe WD2M is discontinued (WD1M is still in production).Quote from: Neganur on September 27, 2015, 05:15:58 pmThe WSP80 and WP80 are compatible with all of the WD models, including the M versions.

author: ez24
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2015, 07:32:05 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on September 26, 2015, 05:48:09 amDave 3 ?

author: donkey77
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2015, 03:13:32 pm
content: So which iron/station did you go for Dave?

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2015, 07:27:42 pm
content: Quote from: donkey77 on October 05, 2015, 03:13:32 pmMetcal.

author: donkey77
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2015, 07:30:03 pm
content: Ha ha

author: kemal
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 05, 2015, 08:10:42 pm
content: I don't know what is available there, but I would like to see a WESD51 compared to a WD1002. Just to see what one gets for the money.

author: bitshape
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2015, 08:30:42 pm
content: +1 vote for review & tear-down of Wellers latest WX stuff:Weller WX 2021 set (micro + micro tweezer set)[nice addition to your current Lab-benchtools!]Weller WX 1010 set (basic)Just be sure to compare it with your JBC, would be interesting to see where Weller stands.

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 05:48:11 am
content: Would like to see WD series.

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 12:55:07 pm
content: +1 vote for review & tear-down of the Weller WX series.My Weller WX station is working well. Been using it almost two years now with no problems. I have three tools for it. The pencil tip has held up well with no signs of wear. Tweezers work fine also. Don't use the WX iron as much as the pencil as I still have a vintage Weller WTCPN station that must be almost 45+ years old now that I still use daily on the main bench.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 01:46:06 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 26, 2015, 03:55:51 pmOk, let me try and explain how the blog works. It's complex, so stick with me:Rule 1: Do whatever I'm interested in.Rule 2: Avoid whatever doesn't interest me.Rule 3: Ignore people who tell me I should do something because it's "my job"

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 07:29:06 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on October 06, 2015, 01:46:06 pmYou just violated rule #3.

author: con-f-use
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 08:40:15 pm
content: I simply thing the WX stations are a bit under rated and people gang up on how great JBC is. I like my WX very much, so I'd love to see Dave review its bigger brother.

author: jancumps
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 06, 2015, 09:39:12 pm
content: Quote from: zapta on October 06, 2015, 07:29:06 pmI find this remark funny

author: Finbarry
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 09, 2015, 05:58:47 pm
content: I really recommend the WXR 3030. Its the best Soldering / Rework Station I have ever had.I'm also really interested in seeing what makes it tick. I just don't want to void the warranty on mine thoughI have attached a picture of my soldering Setup:Leftmost iron:Weller WXP 65 (included in WXR 3030)Top Middle PSU:Weller WD1M (Power Supply for solderbath and WMRP)Bottom Middle PSU:Weller WXR 3 (included in WXR 3030Iron on top of WXR 3:Weller WMRP (Tips include heating element, very easy to change tips while hot.)Third from right Iron:Weller WXDP 120 Desoldering IronSecond from right Iron:Weller WXHAP 200 (Hot air "gun", Included in WXR 3030)Rightmost Iron: Weller WXMP (same tips as WMRP)Qualitywise I cannot find anything wrong with the Weller irons. Some people complain about them being DOA and the tips not lasting very long. I have used my WMRP tips for almost 3 years and I am still on the first one, soldering every day.Overall I think that Weller is just a little too expensive for hobby use. As I purchased mine directly through a wholesaler who in turn buys directly from Weller i saved around € 500,- from retail, this makes them much more affordable for me.If you are searching for something to use as a hobbyist get the WSD 81i, awesome product.@Dave: Do you get to keep the product you choose? If yes, go for the WXR 3030

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2015, 08:26:32 pm
content: Quote from: Finbarry on December 09, 2015, 05:58:47 pmThey got the WX series sorted after having to recall the initial release due to significant number of DOAs. Stations made in Mexico however still have a higher DOA rate, and the WD series have had some issues as well (i.e. cost cutting gone too far, such as Asian made boards that are final assembled in Germany which qualifies for "Made in Germany").Tip quality is dependent on COO as well IME. The RT series tips for example, are made in Germany, don't have issues. Same for those made in the US or Japan.Tips made in Mexico or Bosnia however, are where they have notable QC issues.For disclosure, I own a WD1, WSP80 iron, WMP iron, along a WDH-10 and WDH-10T Stop-n-Go stand. It works very well and I'm happy with the performance, but for the money, it's possible to do better IMHO. At a significant discount however, it's well worth consideration, particularly if the buyer is after inexpensive tips. For comparison, the Hakko FX-951 goes for $266.77 MSRP here in the US, and it's possible to get it for less than that on sale; the WD1002 goes for ~$300 on the street if you hunt (TEquipment.net), and the WDH-10T stand is an extra ~$90. You'd be able to outfit the Hakko with a decent selection of tips for the cost difference (and the T15 series tips for the Hakko are quite reasonable for cartridge tips).

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 09, 2015, 09:40:56 pm
content: Yet again, I echo nanofrog on the FX-951. I bought mine from TEquipment.net with the EEVBlog discount and paid $287 USD for the iron, 5 tips, 4 tip holders and an extra package of brass curls, sleep stand and tip tray included at no extra charge. Well worth the price, IMHO.

author: f1rmb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2015, 10:05:12 pm
content: You can also build your own WX station. I built mine, double tips (RT ones) control.Cheers---Daniel

author: Finbarry
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 07:49:01 am
content: Quote from: f1rmb on December 09, 2015, 10:05:12 pmReally? I didn't know that.Do you have some sources? I'm interested in trying it myself.Thanks

author: AudioplatinumService
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 10:13:26 am
content: Hi,similar project but for WMRP / 12Vhttps://github.com/FlyGlas/WMRPReally? I didn't know that.Do you have some sources? I'm interested in trying it myself.Thanks

author: f1rmb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 05:53:48 pm
content: Quote from: Finbarry on December 10, 2015, 07:49:01 amSure.The start point was the project by Martin Kummhttp://www.martin-kumm.de/wiki/doku.php?id=Projects:SMD_Solderstation.But I didn't build a "shield", but a PCB embedding a Nano V3. I got rid of the 7 segments, and use a cheap LCD 2*16.It can drive two RT tips, with different temperature settings, or identical one, you choose.I also rewrote the code from zero.If you're interested, I can provide the eagle files, source code, and so on.

author: f1rmb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 10, 2015, 06:25:38 pm
content: Here are two photos.Cheers.---Daniel

author: arko
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 11:25:54 am
content: I'm about to replace my very old soldering station. And looking at the Weller ones, and this thread, nobody mentioned the WP 65 model.The full kit would be something along the line of:-WD 1Station-WP 65 Kit(WP 65 Soldering Iron + XNT A tip (1.6mm/0.4mm) + WDH 10 base)-XNT GW 1(Gull wing tip 2mm)This set would be for less than 350€, not bad! And ready for SMT and everyday work.As for the review, I would suggest to go either full steam on a top pro kit; or choose a more hobbyist/enthusiast accessible option. In the latter case, this kit above might be a good candidate..? What do you think?And have a look here to see the full story about the different tips, irons, technologies etc... very helpful:Weller Brochure Soldering tips

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 05:55:53 pm
content: Quote from: arko on December 12, 2015, 11:25:54 amIt's not a bad setup (I have a WD1 + WMP iron* + WSP80 iron + WDH-10T stand + WDH-10 stand), but the WP 65 is designed for SMD work, not general purpose. The WSP80 or WP80 are meant for general purpose work, and also do SMD just fine. The LT series also has a lot more tip shapes available. Performance isverygood, but it's too pricey for what you get, unless you can get it at a hefty discount.* The WMP iron is the predecessor to the WP 65.Since you're located in Europe, I'd encourage you to take a look at anErsa i-Con Nanoinstead (or ani-Con 1if you mean to add additional hand pieces). It's cheaper, ~177EUR (before VAT & shipping) directly from Ersa's e-store (here). The 102 series tips are very well made, and they offer a lot of different profiles. Tips run ~6EUR each IIRC. There are several members that own them, and are very pleased (worth a search).BTW, if you go into your user profile and set your country, the flag will display beneath your userID. Makes it a lot easier on everyone regarding relevant links and pricing.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 06:22:37 pm
content: Just FYI, ersa-shop.com isnotErsa itself, it's a reseller (Bräunlich, a reputable vendor I have used before, ordered via Amazon). On the stations themselves, Amazon.de is cheaper, but on the accessories (tips, the little tip holders, brass wool, etc), Bräunlich has much better prices, if you order a few things at once to make the minimum shipping cost worthwhile.I love my i-Con Nano, but I kinda wish I'd spent just a bit more and gotten the i-Con 1, not because of iron performance (it's fantastic), but because of the user interface: I think I'd prefer the rotary encoder and backlit display (and front panel power switch!) to the up/down buttons, non-backlit LCD, and rear power switch of the Nano. Admittedly, another €100 just for those creature comforts is a lot. :pArko, if you're considering spending a fair bit more, depending on where you are this could make sense: someone here in switzerland is selling a new in box (apparently bought years ago but never used) Ersa i-Con 2 station with the Chip-Tool SMD tweezers (in addition to the standard i-Tool soldering iron), asking CHF550. I'd love to get it myself but my finances are absolutely tapped out right now.

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 06:39:02 pm
content: Quote from: tooki on December 12, 2015, 06:22:37 pmYup, ERSA offers more bang for the buck. I'm quite happy with an i-Con 2 and the tweezers are great for removing small 2 pin SMT components like resistors and diodes. The tips for larger parts like SO8 or 16 work also fine. The i-tool (soldering iron) is simply amazing.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 07:23:59 pm
content: Quote from: tooki on December 12, 2015, 06:22:37 pmThanks for the clarification.Quote from: tooki on December 12, 2015, 06:22:37 pmStrictly for a UI improvement, it is rather pricey. But if the OP wants the ability to use additional tools such as the tweezers, then it's the least expensive way to go (I-Con2 is the next step up, which allows for simultaneous operation of 2 tools, so long as the total power consumption doesn't exceed 150W IIRC).Quote from: tooki on December 12, 2015, 06:22:37 pmSounds like one heck of a deal.A link might be nice.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 09:22:37 pm
content: Hahaha I totally forgot to add the link!!http://m.tutti.ch/schaffhausen/haushalt/deko-accessoires/angebote/ersa-i-con-2-loetstation-neu_7851732.htmMaybe someone here will surprise Santa it for me for Christmas??

author: arko
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 12, 2015, 09:38:25 pm
content: Sorry I might have hijacked this thread a bit!(feel free to move those posts to a new thread)Thanks for the tips guys!Truenanofrogthat it's a bit pricey for what you get. And the Ersa looks good bang for bucks (that's an old late 80s Ersa MS 6000 that I'm replacing btw. Trusty companion. Had to replace a cap once, but never failed me otherwise).tooki, this is indeed a very nice deal! I'm not sure I'm up to that price range tho, now considering the i-Con 1 or nano prices... Hmmmm...

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2015, 11:36:22 am
content: Arko, just FYI, Amazon.de is offering free shipping to Switzerland right now, and of course doesn't charge EU VAT, so the nano, for example, is just €160, including Swiss customs. Way, way, way cheaper than getting it through the local distributors (like distrelec).

author: arko
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 13, 2015, 12:21:03 pm
content: Whooo, nice! Thanks!But "Including Swiss customs"? How's that?True that Distrelec prices are quite obscene at times...

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2015, 01:07:55 pm
content: Quote from: arko on December 12, 2015, 09:38:25 pmDid you end up buying it? I see the ad for the station has been pulled, so I assume it's been sold.Quote from: arko on December 13, 2015, 12:21:03 pmAmazon has a program called Amazon Global, which is basically Amazon handling the customs clearance. When you order, Amazon charges you in advance for customs fees. So by the time the package arrives in Switzerland, it's already cleared customs, so no surprise bills from Post GLS for Fr. 3 in Swiss VAT and Fr. 35 "administrative fees". The total you pay Amazon is the final price, period. And in fact, if Amazon's estimated customs fees end up being higher than the actual fees, then about 2 months later you'll receive a refund for the excess you paid (and if the estimated fees are too low, Amazon eats the difference!!).In the case of Switzerland, which is not part of the EU, if you order from an EU Amazon (where prices are required to be posted including VAT), then the cart will actually remove VAT on checkout. The screenshot below shows what it looks like on Amazon.de. The cart shows the VAT-inclusive prices for each item, and the subtotal also still includes VAT. But if you click the "Estimate VAT, Postage and Packaging" widget, you'll see that the item cost has dropped (no VAT) and that there's an "Import fees deposit". Even with shipping to Switzerland, the "Estimated Order Total" is usually less than the VAT-inclusive price. (And they're doing free shipping at the moment, making it unambiguously less.)Here's the critical thing: This applies only to items sold by Amazon itself, NOT third-party sellers!! (I think it may also apply to third-party sellers that use Amazon's fulfillment and billing services. If you see the import fees deposit, then you know you're good.)

author: arko
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 17, 2015, 02:51:33 pm
content: Thank you tooki, that's very helpful information here! Will sure try that out soon!QuoteNope, wasn't me! Someone else took it.I'm pretty much sold on the i-Con 1 now. And while I'm not in a hurry, it would be certainly too late when it goes out. Still, I'm curious to see the next EEVblog Weller review.Back to the thread, Dave have you chosen the unit by now?

author: Alfons
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2015, 06:23:21 pm
content: Quote from: nanofrog on December 12, 2015, 05:55:53 pmI have to correct, because that is not true. I also thought at first, that you can connect different tools to the I-Con 1 , but it only works the I-Tool. Only the first version of the I-con (I-Con without "1") can deal with different tools. Ersa has changed this later. If you absolutely want to use different tools, you should look out for an old Ersa I-Con (without "1") or get the I-Con 2 immediately. I now have both, the new I-Con 1 and the old I-Con and know the differences. I'm angry about Ersa because of this strange model policy and had therefore with Ersa a long e-mail traffic.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2015, 07:23:44 pm
content: Interesting, Alfons!Out of curiosity, could you maybe post pictures of both, including the accessories that came with them?Arko, if you do indeed want the flexibility to connect other tools, look at the vario version, the i-CON 1V. It supports a large array of tools.

author: Alfons
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2015, 08:38:14 pm
content: Here are some pictures. I will maybe open an extra thread with teardown. I find it quite remarkable what Ersa doing.Pic 1: Left the old Ersa I-Con (without "1") - on the right the new I-Con1.I hope you can see that:Pic 2: The connector from the old I-Con is full occupied.Pic 3: The plug from the new Icon 1 is only partially occupied.Pic 4: This menu displays the old I-Con, this does not exist in the new I-con1The old I-Con was significantly more expensive than the new I-Con1. The very first I-Con did not have a sleep mode, that was changed in the second Version (Firmware 2006 vs. Firmware 2007)