Short and sweet question, I've never done soldering before. Any tips or tricks to it and more importantly - what type of solder do I need?

Your topic was MOVED to its current forum category as it is more suitable than the original as it is not an Introductory Tutorial

I completely agree with LarryD, and will only add that it should have flux core which he meant. Rosin is fine. Get a good quality no clean solder like Kester. The thickness depends on what you are soldering.

I'm fairly new to soldering myself but have done some Eurorack kits, some model railway stuff, etc. I use a 0.8mm Sn-0.3Ag-0.7Cu solder with flux core (branded "Tabiger", got it on Amazon) and have never had any problems with it. I have heard many (especially older) people go on lengthy rants about…

In addition to what is stated above: 63/37 is best for beginners. The reason being it is eutectic. Which means it goes from a liquid directly into a solid (no mushy stage). This helps eliminate cold solder joints. BTW cold solder joints aren't actually cold, it is a term for a joint that is c…

[image] taschi: Weighed against the massive environmental harm of leaded e-waste, I don't consider switching to 60/40 or any other leaded solder worth it. You must have big plans. :astonished:

+1 for leaded solder for learning. Unless you are going to eat your project, of course.

Think about how many people on this forum dabble in electronics, and how much solder they use between them. It adds up. Even very low doses of lead in water and farmland soil can have massive impacts on the health of those who end up consuming it. Aggressiveness, lowered IQ, neurological conditions…

[image] taschi: It adds up. Not in the big scheme of things. :roll_eyes:

Give us a break :face_with_raised_eyebrow: . Estimates for lead in the environment do to hunting, in our country, is 80 tons each year. In 45 years of soldering this user might have gone through 4 pounds and the PCBs worked on are still in service. Wonder how much lead was put in the air do to…

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What type of solder do I need?

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LarryD May 31, 2022, 6:42am 2

Suggest you use 63/37 and/or 60/40 lead tin solder.

Use ~340 degrees C.

A temperature controlled soldering iron similar to the HAKKO FX-888D is good.

Many tips here but you will need to find the ones on soldering.

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What type of solder do I need?

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