DIY Edition: How to Solder Components onto PCBs

Through hole soldering is one of the most popular ways to attach components onto PCBs. This method is extremely reliable. It provides unsurpassed results. However, there is a certain skill and technical know-how attached to this job. This blog post will attempt to outline these methods.

Steps to Soldering with PCBs

The soldering process that accompanies PCB fabrication consists of a few nuances and steps. These are outlined below: (You will need a soldering iron and soldering iron.)

Clean the tip -
Heat the soldering iron. Clean the tip of the soldering iron of all old solder using a wet sponge.

Tin the Tip -
Tinning the tip is one of the most important steps that should be incorporated in your soldering routine. It helps the soldering iron transfer heat in a more efficient manner making the entire soldering process more effective. Tinning should be performed prior to beginning any soldering work. It should also be the last task after the soldering process has been completed.

Solder Two Wires
The following is the procedure to be followed when soldering two wires:

• Tin the wire.
• Since, you will need to use both your hands to perform the soldering process, consider placing your wire in a way that allows you to work without holding it with your hands.
• Heat the soldering gun and place the heated tip on the wire for 1-3 seconds.
• Hold some solder close to the wire and heat it. Make sure that the wire is covered with solder.
• Repeat Steps ‘a’-‘d’ for the other wire.
• Solder on a PCB

Below are the steps to be followed when soldering through-hole components onto a PCB:

• Place the component in the designated hole.
• Bend the leads downwards such that the component is in the right place and does not move.
• Using your solder gun, heat the leads and PCB pad at the same time for 1-2 seconds.
• Apply the solder such that the leads are joined to the PCB pad and the component cannot move.

(Before soldering the leads, you can cut them to the appropriate length for better results.) Ensure that you always have a fire extinguisher when working with any amount of heat. Maintaining a safe working environment is extremely important and it starts with choosing the right tools for the job. Find tools that are compatible with your PCB and components. We will be covering some more DIY topics. Watch this space for more articles on the same.