On Wednesday 19 February 2003 07:53 am, A.J. Tufgar wrote:
> Hello all,
>           I'm looking for a new iron to remove and replace some
> '877 TQFP's that shifted somehow in the oven.
>
> I was looking around the list for some info and saw that the square
> attachment style of iron tends to transfer to much heat and lift
> traces and that a hot air system is the way to go.  Is this true?
>
> My budget is around $1500 USD, so I'm pretty sure I could get a
> nice system, but I'm unsure which method is the best for rework as
> I said above.
>
> I've been looking at Metcal stations, how are they?  Anyone
> recommend a model from them or another manufacturer that would suit
> my needs?

The Metcal MX500 would be the system to get if you're looking at
Metcal. These can be bought on eBay if you want.

I believe you want the SMTC-1120 tip (double check just in case). Once
you get the hang of it, you should be able to remove parts without
injuring your boards.

You just put the tip over the part and apply gentle rotation. When the
solder melts, the chip will move. You then pick it up and wipe it off
on the sponge. You may want to have a pick in the other hand to help
hold it, depending on how tightly the tip fits the legs of the PIC.

--
Ned Konz
http://bike-nomad.com
GPG key ID: BEEA7EFE

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