Rolf wrote (regarding the solder paste): 

> Am I correct with the understanding that:
> 1. One simply applies it to each of the pads

Yes - and NO.  You can apply the paste to each of the pads
but this is not as easy as you might think.  The proper way
to do this is to get a stainless steel shim made up with the
pads on the pcb cut out on the shim.  You simply then put the 
paste on the top of the shim and spatula the paste over the
top with the PCB underneath. - A stencil.

> 2. It is tacky, so the SM Part will "stick" to it.

Yep.

> 3. You can "touch" each pin with the soldering iron (or with Hot Air if 
> you have the tool).

Yes, but once the solder melts, the component has less sticking
ability to the board, so if you use an air gun, careful you 
do not blow everything off the board.

> 4. Get next part....
> 5. Go to 1.

Another problem with the paste is that it has a use by date
because it dries out.  If you are buying a $50 tub, you
probably will not use 1/4 of it before it is unusable.

You should be able to buy it in smaller syringes.

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