Does anyone know a good technique for isolating the solder point? I would like to know if there is something I can do to reduce the chances of getting solder on somewhere besides the solder point.
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Does anyone know a good technique for isolating the solder point? I would like to know if there is something I can do to reduce the chances of getting solder on somewhere besides the solder point.
flux only on the point. the flux should atract the solder
Use as little solder as is needed for the job. Tin the tip of your iron and sponge off excess solder. Tin the tip of your wire. Put flux on the point you want to solder (I use a toothpick to apply flux past to the solder points).
I also use tweezers to hold my wire (so I don't burn my fingers) while I'm soldering. Hold the tip of the tinned wire directly on the point you want to solder. Touch the soldering iron to the wire carefully so as not to slip.
The iron will heat the wire. The solder that's on the tinned wire with flow to the solder point. Just takes a second for that to happen. Carefully remove the iron without moving the wire. Takes a second or two for the melted solder to cool and become solid. You don't want to move the wire while the solder is still melted else it'll slip and you'll have a bridged wire, bad connection, etc.
Presto, you're done. I use this free hand technique for all solder points without a problem. Bios legs, controller legs, vias, etc. After some practice, it becomes really easy. Suggest you get an old electronic component to practice on (ie. sound card, video card, etc.).