StickOS

[mackrackit]

If you want to do the "oven" method here is a primer
http://www.picbasic.co.uk/forum/cont...MD-Prototyping
and I will add a bit...

Do not worry about the paste bridging, when heated it will flow to the metal. On these small parts the paste will bridge as it is almost impossible to apply the paste to one pin at a time. I end up "smearing" a little paste across the pads and during alignment (sliding the part around) the paste will "bridge". Not to much paste though, it is easier to add more than "wicking" it off.

My oven is unmodified. Get one with a heating element selector and use the bottom element only. Set the temperature to 350 and the timer for 10 minutes, you may need to increase the time with larger or multiple boards. Put the PCB on a thin piece of aluminum plate (1/16 inch) to even out the heat when it sits on the grill.

Put the PCB in a "cold" oven when doing the 10 minute thing, at the end of 10 minutes or just before you will see the paste flow. When you get to doing several boards a day and the oven is pre-heated you will have to work out the time per batch.

Best thing to do is just play with it some like the link to the wiki article shows.
Like Nick said "After all this is not rocket surgery ."

[ScaleRobotics]

Like Nick said "After all this is not rocket surgery ."

Maybe not, but perhaps a little bit of brain science is involved.

Thanks guys, I will give it a go. Appreciate the tips from you two.

Walter

[mark_s]

I also agree, special Thanks to Bruce!

I have had very good results with a Walmart electric skillet and a IR thermometer from Harbor freight. I preheat the boards to around 180 F. Then turn it up to full heat, once the solder paste has flowed you turn it off and let cool. Its like magic when it melts!
The idea is descibed in a Sparkfun tutorial

Dave's advice on less solder paste is really good, which I have learned the hard way.

Regards
Mark