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Depends on what you want to do with it Posted by Ari [Email] (#2847) [Profile/Gallery] (more from Ari) on Wed, 16 Mar 2005 09:16:23 In Reply to: Cold Heat Soldering Tool, rc3saabs, Wed, 16 Mar 2005 08:58:41 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
This information isn't from personal experience - only from talking to others and what I've read-
The cold heat uses a resistive heating element, that basically uses the conductive material you are soldering as part of the circuit. It doesn't get hot until you touch it to the part. Once removed, current no longer flows, and the resistive material cools down almost instantly. That's the good news.
There are some drawbacks. First, it takes a different technique than standard irons. That can be learned, no problem. The biggest drawback is that it only works on small components. Thin wire, 18 gauge or thinner; small resistors and capacitors. It's not good for large components, so re-flowing the solder pad on that bad headlight relay is probably out of the question. Since it creates a large current spike, it definately isn't recommended for integrated circuits, or for any parts where leads are close together and you could bridge two or more pads. That could cause damage.
If you want something quick and easy for soldering up some thin wire, small, non-delicate components (resistors, capacitors, small connectors), it'll do fine. If you're trying to work with larger wire, bigger components, or to re-flow solder, it will be very frustrating. It won't replace a standard soldering iron, but it may prove useful for small tasks around the house and in the car, due to its portability and quick access.
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