Electronic – Soldering Tiny Leads

componentssolderingusb

I've got some really tiny leads on a USB port that I need to solder to a board.

SMD mini USB port

The local Hackerspace has a microscope that I'm going to see about using this for, but even a soldering iron is gigantic compared to these tiny leads. Does anyone have any tips (pun intended and unintended) for soldering these leads to a board?

Best Answer

Flux! Use plenty of flux and it will magically work.

You don't need:

  • a super-skinny soldering tip

  • hot air station

  • very thin solder

  • solder paste

  • desolder braid (helpful though)

You do need:

  • Flux

  • Magnification (you've got that covered)

Flux up the pads really well, then apply heat and solder. Try to make a big ball that covers all the pads. Then remove solder by repeatedly cleaning the tip and touching it to the pads. This technique is similar to drag soldering. If in doubt add more flux.

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