Hi:

I have read about using toaster ovens, fry pans, and modified solder 
suckers, but have not seen much about using hot air rework stations.
These are available new on eBay between $98 and $250.  I'd like to be 
able to solder SMT parts, mainly SOIC, at home and hot air seems to be 
the way to go with the correct tip.  I think these are Chinese copies of 
the Hako, see:
http://stores.ebay.com/Gadgets-to-go_SMT-Rework-Station-Nozzles_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQfsubZ12QQftidZ2QQtZkm
http://stores.ebay.com/Gadgets-to-go_DC-power-supply_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQfsubZ11QQftidZ2QQtZkm 
<-has more hot air systems

But I haven't found a good tutorial on using them for SMT assembly.

I did get the Harbor Freight 8" Mini Shear Break and it does a great job 
of cutting 1/16" thick (but no thicker) PCBs, see:
http://www.pacificsites.com/~brooke/8MSB.shtml   I'm also learning how 
to use it for form sheet metal and have made one mini box with it.

Have Fun,

Brooke Clarke, N6GCE

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