October 2013
I want to move to SMT components. Do I need a hot air reworking station, or just a hot air station? Can you recommend something for someone with a small budget?
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I have had very good luck using “regular” soldering techniques, with the correct solder and flux. Set the component in place, solder pins on diagonally opposite corners. If it's not straight enough, straighten it out while there are only two pins soldered.
The link I've included shows the result from using a toaster oven, with modifications, to solder a whole board at one time. There are a number of video's on You Tube showing how to convert a toaster oven. The options are to manipulate the temperature profile manually, or you can use a thermocouple and a small computer such as an Arduino to automate the temperature profile.
I'm still doing the soldering manually.
