Do you have a recommendation for a reasonably priced hot air gun for a starter??? Looks like they can get pretty pricey.For techniques I would definitely try hot air reflow. It's arguably the easiest and best method. Solder paste syringe, tweezers and temperature controlled hot air gun. Basically you coat the pads you want to solder with a tiny dab of solder paste from the syringe (easy). sit the component on it aim the hot air gun over it for 10 seconds or so, and done, soldered on beautifully and better looking than with an iron, plus less trouble with bridging leads.
I agree. It's hard for all but the most cashed-up hobbyists to justify the expense of a hot-air rework station.@jims: Save your $140 and try it with your existing iron. Use a good magnifier and plenty of flux, clean well before & after soldering to get smooth, shiny joints. Plenty of YouTube tutorials to help....
erco...will Yuengling also clean the iron tip?? JumSGit 'er done, my Carolina brother! (I'm from Charleston originally)
OK to use duct tape to hold the IC down for soldering and clean your iron tip on a Budweiser-soaked sponge.
That would be a waste of a fine Yuengling! Miller Lite or PBR would be no loss though.erco...will Yuengling also clean the iron tip?? JumS