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Tools Needed for SMC Mods

Posted: 12 Jul 2009, 14:12
by CHEEZOR
Hello,
I am definately a noob with electronics, but I have been playing around with them for years. I was wondering what tools you would need to do some mods to pedals that are built with surface mounted parts? I would like to try modding some of my cheaper pedals, but I would like to know what kinds of tools are out there to make the job easier and what kind of price range they are in.

Thanks for your time!

Cheezor

Re: Tools Needed for SMC Mods

Posted: 13 Jul 2009, 00:02
by JiM
Here are some good tutorials :
http://www.ladyada.net/library/equipt/index.html
http://www.ladyada.net/learn/soldering/ (not specifically about SMD ... yet)

You don't need specialized tools to work occasionnaly with SMD, just reasonnable quality stuff.
I suggest the following :
  1. a good pair of tweezers
  2. a fine-tipped soldering iron (no need to be needle-sharp, it won't transfert heat)
  3. soldering flux
  4. desoldering braid
  5. a magnifying lamp can be useful
  6. sometimes a second soldering iron, to pick a chip by both ends

Re: Tools Needed for SMC Mods

Posted: 15 Jul 2009, 01:07
by CHEEZOR
Thanks a lot for the recommendations! :D