Page 175 - Make Your Own PCBs with EAGLE from Schematic Designs to Finished Boards

integrated circuit (IC) leads are close together, for example, because it is much easier to use. If you
need to solder some large terminals, you will find yourself feeding in quite a length of the narrow
solder to deliver the required amount, but this is not really a problem.

Desoldering Braid

Desoldering braid (Figure 7-5) is not an essential tool for soldering, but it can come in very handy
from time to time. As well as its primary use for “unsoldering” components, it is also great for

mopping up excess solder, especially when hand soldering SMDs.

FIGURE 7-5 Desoldering braid.

The braid is made of copper impregnated with flux that encourages the solder to flow. Thus, when
you place it between the pad from which you want to remove the solder and the soldering iron tip, it
soaks up the solder like a sponge. Having done this, that section of braid cannot be reused, and you

snip it off and throw it away.

Tip Cleaner

When you solder, it is very important that the tip of the iron is clean, or you will end up with blobs of
solder that do not make a good joint. There are two methods of cleaning the tip, both used with the
soldering iron hot. One is to use a damp sponge, and many soldering stations include a sponge holder.
The other is to use a container of brass shavings, rather like a scouring pad (Figure 7-6).