How to Make a Magnified Solder Station
Soldering stations are very important to hobbyists at every level. These stations incorporate the supplies and accessories needed to ensure that the soldering project is completed safely and efficiently. Making a complete station is possible by assembling the right components and placing them together to create an accessible and convenient workspace.
Things You'll Need
- Third hand tool
- Screwdriver (Philips, Allen, Torx)
- Third hand tool-compatible magnifying glass
- Solder sponge/holder
- Variable power supply
Instructions
-
-
1
Plan for the station correctly. The ideal for a magnified soldering station is in a well-lit environment with good ventilation and available AC outlets. Have the workbench or workspace easily reachable to make it easier to concentrate on your work.
-
2
Place the sponge, AC power supply and spiral holder on your dominant hand's side. This allows you to reach for and replace the iron more easily without removing your eyes from the project.
-
-
3
Screw the magnifying glass to the third arm clamping tool, using the appropriate screwdriver. This device holds wires and other devices in a stable manner, allowing you to manipulate the project with both hands.
-
4
Plug the AC power supply into the wall, and the soldering iron into the appropriate jack on the unit.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Always wipe the tip of the soldering iron on the dampened sponge after every session. This removes oxidation and other contaminants from the tip, allowing easier solder application.
Use fine-grit sandpaper to remove stubborn contamination on the iron. The shiner the tool is the better.
Always assume a soldering iron is on and hot while not in use. Keep the heated tip in the metal spiral holder.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
