Hardware Hacking Projects for Geeks

7

Introduction

How to solder

Now that you have a basic idea of how to read a schematic diagram, it’s time

to use this newly won knowledge to build a circuit by soldering the parts

together.

You will need several tools before you start: some solder, a soldering iron,

solder remover, and all of the parts of the circuit you intend to build. If you

are not familiar with these items, refer to Figure I-4. From left to right you

can see a soldering iron, solder, and solder wick.

I believe in learning by doing, so let’s build a simple project to get the hang

of soldering. For this mini-project you will need the following items:

• A soldering iron (Weller WM120 or Radio Shack Part #64-2055)

• Solder (Radio Shack Part #64-015)

• Solder remover (Radio Shack Part #64-2090)

• Prototype board (Radio Shack Part #276-147)

• An LED (Radio Shack Part #276-316)

• A 4.7K resistor (Radio Shack Part #271-1124)

• A battery connector (Radio Shack Part #270-324)

• A pushbutton switch (Radio Shack Part #275-618)

• Wire cutters

Solder

I like to use Multicore No-Clean solder

(http://www.multicore.com) with a

0.5mm diameter. This solder has a

built-in flux that does not leave a vis-

ible residue. However, there are many

brands available, and most of those

sold by reputable distributors should

work well.

Soldering Irons

For small electronics work, choose a

low-wattage, fine-tip iron. I like the

W