PCB holders - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 09:02:50 am
content: HiWhat PCB holder to buy? Is it ok?https://www.amazon.in/Printed-Circuit-Holder-Soldering-Assembly/dp/B07GP5SK6NHow it fix pcb angle?

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 09:06:43 am
content: I have never needed to hold PCB at any other angle, than laying it flat on the table.Stupid holders require you to work with hands raised in the air, which is hopeless for precision work (soldering small SMD stuff).

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 11:37:27 am
content: I do have this particular one and some others.And IMHO YOU DO NEED THEM .. and sometimes theyare not enough.Mainly the problem is when you need to preheat or keepthe heat on large sinking planes MOBOs.This particular one is good for precision LOW THERMAL profilesbeing plastic you may not expose it to pre heaters easilyIt all boils down (pun intended) to MOBO size.I am wondering a metallic magnetic onehttps://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000263564047.htmlbut for large sized MOBOs they can not twist with thebottom heater and holders can not contain plastic.However magnetics can be fixed to the plate easily..When things are too odd I use iron bench gigs orimprovised large stands under the heater.Enough to raise large thermal sink planesPaul

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 11:43:14 am
content: I have one that looks like the picture. What I like about it is that:a. It was cheap (free from PCB way) - search Amazon for 'PCB holder'b. It stops small PCBs moving around under my stereo microscope when I'm working on themc. It's quick to move the PCB around ind. It's small enough to turn the whole thing around as I'm working

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 12:06:26 pm
content: These small ones are just for mobile pcbs..This folk developed a really interesting alternativecapable of doing large mobos on selected spots...Home made creative folkPaul

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 12:57:59 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on December 14, 2019, 11:43:14 amWith a bit of ingenuity, you can rebuild them to take much larger PCBs...https://www.eevblog.com/forum/beginners/pcb-holdervise-suggestions/msg1421429/#msg1421429

author: colorado.rob
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2019, 05:47:59 pm
content: I typically work with smaller PCBs and have found the Panavise 201 works really well. I also have a Panavise quad hands base. Both work really well for my needs.

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2019, 10:33:28 am
content: Quote from: colorado.rob on December 14, 2019, 05:47:59 pmWhile they are good... probably best handling tool..They can not go to any pre-heater that easy.in that topic the first post option (all good quality plastic)is cheaper and overseas it costs a fraction of a typical PanaviseAnd that particular model can handle ATX MOBOS just fine..cheaper alternative however not so good as PanavisePaul

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2019, 11:11:49 am
content: I have the exact PCB holder you linked to.It works fine, nothing wrong with it.You asked about the pcb angle, there is a spring at one end which makes it hard to rotate. This makes the PCB stay at the angle you move it to.i hardly ever use the thing. When i'm working on pcbs (or soldering) they are just sitting on the bench or under the microscope 95% of the time.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2019, 03:28:44 pm
content: The one I posted a picture of is just for small PCBs. If I'm working with a big PCB (big to me is 100 x 50 mm) then I just work on the anti-static bench surface. My issue is that, with the small PCBs, you only have to fart on them to get them to move under the microscope.

author: JDubU
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2019, 04:26:27 pm
content: For the longest time, I used a wide opening Panavise for soldering components on pcb's:https://www.panavise.com/index.html?pageID=1&page=full&--eqskudatarq=7For the past couple of years, I mostly use a silicone soldering mat:https://www.banggood.com/DANIU-34x23cm-Heat-Insulation-Silicone-Pad-Desk-Mat-Maintenance-Platform-BGA-Soldering-Repair-Station-p-1105515.html?rmmds=myorder&cur_warehouse=CNThe soldering mat is slightly "grippy" so that the pcb does not slide around on it at all. When soldering, I also typically put the mat on a microfiber cloth so that I can easily spin and slide the entire work surface around on the bench. This is especially useful for SMD soldering to get just the right angle between my eyes, the soldering iron tip, and the pcb pad.Now I really only use the Panavise for larger 3D assemblies or for soldering wires.

author: andy3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2019, 07:00:58 pm
content: Quote from: 001 on December 14, 2019, 09:02:50 amI ordered one of these after another member recommended it. Waiting for delivery. It looks much like the one your link but in US$.https://www.amazon.com/Aven-17010-Adjustable-Circuit-Holder/dp/B00Q2TTQEE/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1W8KDZ88LG4GU&keywords=pcb+holder&qid=1576436270&sprefix=PCB+%2Caps%2C215&sr=8-2

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2019, 09:46:05 am
content: Quote from: andy3055 on December 15, 2019, 07:00:58 pmNo problems - I have one of this and works great.You can put any ATX or even a bit larger form factorin any angle and as long as you do not overheat theplastic parts you are fine.Holder locks fine in position and allows you to put spot heaterunder position. Great to clear THT large sinking planes...Paul

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 01:16:46 am
content: For small boards and if you have money to burn:https://www.tequipment.net/HakkoC1390C.htmlGets the board up nice and high, whichcanbe nice for soldering, although not so good for the microscope. Totally depends on your application though..

author: blacksheeplogic
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 03:16:03 am
content: Quote from: thm_w on December 17, 2019, 01:16:46 amI have four of these and they are my most used holders. They are heavy and well built. The Panavise is also a holder I use a lot. Other clamps and holders I have are better when using a pre-heater.There's really no one clamp that's the 'best', it really depends on what you need at any given time and just like any tools you build the set over time as the need arises.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 03:43:42 am
content: another option is magnetic type. if you want smaller or bigger workspace all you have to do is to make the metallic base for them...https://www.ebay.com/itm/PCB-Holder-Fixtures-Mobile-Phone-Repairing-Soldering-Iron-Universal-Rework-Tools/273787410300?hash=item3fbf00577c:g:hDYAAOSw~BhbEmd7this one complete with probe holdershttps://www.ebay.com/itm/PCB-Holder-Fixtures-Mobile-Phone-Repairing-Soldering-Iron-Universal-Rework-Set-3/273787413720?hash=item3fbf0064d8:g:pW4AAOSwuyNdQTsGQuote from: Gandalf_Sr on December 14, 2019, 11:43:14 ami have this too for years but saw very little use. it will be handy when needed, but my mostly reached device for holding really small pcb is my cheapo and rusty all around multipurpose helping hand. or mostly just laying on the bench/working mat if its not too light to be blown away by farting wind or soldering iron press. ymmv.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2019, 04:04:06 am
content: I'm cheap skate and for soldering, only horizontal PCB position is needed.I used stainless steel mirror brackets a lot as available at local tools store. I did screwed, stick or glued with strong neodymium magnet at the bottom, or just screwed with heavy metal at the base for firmness.So many height and gripping size variations to choose from, and the PCB gripping mechanism is way too simple to fail, and yet strong and firm. Some models have silicone rubber at the gripping jaw to further protect the PCB, or I could fabricated it my self from rubber/silicone sheet.Example random image from Google

author: andy3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2019, 06:14:57 pm
content: Quote from: andy3055 on December 15, 2019, 07:00:58 pmI got this delivered a couple of days back and I must say it is well made. Holds a board up to 9 inches long and can swing a 3 inch wide board without moving the position. It is heavy enough so that it does not get pushed around while in use, yet, light enough that you can move it around for access from different directions. Has some good rubber feet and is very steady on the table/bench. For under $11.00, I think it is a bargain. Quite happy with it.

author: thanasisk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 01:17:59 pm
content: Did you have a look at the sensepeek pcbite holder?

author: andy3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2020, 04:36:57 pm
content: I did not need such an elaborate and expensive thing. For $11.00, this does what I want and more.

author: DrG
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 12:21:50 am
content: After purchasing one of these:I was still a bit unsatisfied - it is not that bad, but it is not that good.Today I got an inexpensive PanaVise - this onehttps://www.amazon.com/PanaVise-Model-Junior-Miniature-Vise/dp/B0819549KSAt US $27, it is the least expensive PanaVise that I have seen. Granted, there is a lot of plastic and it is not as solid as a 'normal' PanaVise vise, but having it in front of me now, I think it may work out well for PC boards.

author: MikeK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 12:58:15 am
content: I have the Pana Jr. It's pretty good, but painfully slow to wind in/out. You can make a simple winder helper.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 02:08:08 am
content: Quote from: 001 on December 14, 2019, 09:02:50 amI’ve used this one and it works pretty well. Have also tried various panavise configurations and if you have enough parts the system can be very flexible and accommodating.My recent most favorite is this:https://www.stickvise.com/#You can get the stickvise and accessories on Amazon. For soldering small PCBs under a microscope they are very good. If you use two sets of jaws stacked up (need some longer screws to hold the double jaws) you can get some extra clearance under the PCB if you need that. To avoid melting the jaws with an inadvertent iron touch you should go for the high temp jaws.

author: J-R
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 05:44:14 am
content: Quote from: MikeK on April 23, 2021, 12:58:15 amPanaVise sells the "Model 239 Speed Control Handle". I've found it adds enough weight to the adjustment knob that I can twirl it in/out in a few seconds...

author: mlloyd1
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 04:10:18 pm
content: Once I tried one, I really like these weighted PCB holders by Hakko.They're a little expensive, but they work quite well and they'll never break.Lots of places sell them, so shop around before you buy.Here's a link to one:https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/american-hakko-products,-inc/C1390C/6228790?utm_adgroup=Accessories&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Shopping_Product_Soldering%2C%20Desoldering%2C%20Rework%20Products&utm_term=&utm_content=Accessories&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq6_Bqd-U8AIVrB-tBh12OwykEAQYASABEgJamvD_BwEmlloyd1

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 06:01:59 pm
content: Quote from: J-R on April 23, 2021, 05:44:14 am+1 for Model 239 Speed Control Handle~$3-4 on Amazon solves the problem

author: xmo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 23, 2021, 08:03:42 pm
content: I have a couple of the Panavise board holders. Holding the board at an angle lets you work on both sides simultaneously such as when removing through hole components.For lay flat work I have this one. It has a heavy metal base about 6" (15 cm) square.As you can see by the adjustment slots, it can be configured to hold a wide range of sized boards.

author: bateau020
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2021, 07:28:21 am
content: My go-to pcb holder for SMD is the MiJing T26. No screws, just slide and it clicks in. Holds well, releases easily, heat resistant, does not skid over the bench. Just close to ideal. Got mentioned a couple of times here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/superb-pcb-holder-and-tools-bought-after-seeing-northbridgefix-youtube-videos/msg3450866/#msg3450866Can be modded to give more clearance below the board.Edit: I will also try their T-Pro series (http://www.gdmijing.com/productinfo/560691.html), as it has more clearance, they just came out.But for boards with higher profile stuff on both sides, am trying out the one mentioned by OP lately. Is reasonable heavy, but will not resist heat. The better ones all are much more expensive and much bulkier.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2021, 02:25:25 am
content: The Pana Jr is imho just plastic junk. I don't recommend it. The metal ones are far better.