Intro to Soldering

Intro to soldering

Teach people how to use soldering irons. This is a hands-on activity that requires some 1-on-1 supervision and has make-it-take-it output.

Supplies

• Soldering irons and sponges - 1 per X participants
• Solder wick - 1 per soldering iron
• Solder spool - 1 per soldering iron
• Helping hands or clamps - 1 per soldering iron
• Work mat (piece of cardboard works fine) - 1 per soldering iron
• Something to solder - 1 per X participant
• Extension cords / surge protectors

Preparation

1. Lay out soldering irons and mats
2. Plug in and turn on irons so they are ready to go

Procedure

1. Demonstrate how to hold the soldering iron
2. Tin the tip (melt a small bit of solder onto the iron tip)
3. Press the component to the pad
4. Use the iron tip to heat the component and pad
5. While holding the iron to the component/pad, melt solder onto the component/tab. Do not melt the solder on the iron
6. While still holding the iron to the component/pad, pull the solder away
7. Allow the solder to flow around the pad and component
8. Pull the iron away
9. Clean the tip
10. Return the iron to its holder

Notes

Soldering irons are hot.