[sdiy] "obsolete" 2N3906

[Grant Richter]

Hi Paul,
> 
> Grant,
> 
> 
>> You will notice those are both TO-92 packages. This is just a continuation
>> of the process of eliminating through hole parts and forcing everyone to
>> switch to surface mount. This was to be expected the day surface mount was
>> announced.
> 
> hehe, paranoia?

What makes you say that? What are you implying? What are you trying to get
at? Who are your working for? Did my ex send you??????
> 
> agreed, it makes good business sense, but whats wrong with progress?

Progress is a natural force like PMS or graft, resistance is futile ;^)

Within my lifetime we have seen the steady evolution towards using less raw
material to product the same electronic results. From tube to discrete
transistor to integrated circuits and now everything with more miniaturize
packaging. Hopefully, this economic force is working in a "green" direction
and reducing wasted resources and ecological impact.
> 
> Also from a DIY point of view with PCB costs based on area, does it not make
> sense to switch to smaller parts?

The Wiard 1200 series is being engineered all in surface mount parts. It
looks like, by using heat resistant adhesive, I can "wave solder" a 2" x 2"
board in a small solder pot. If I can get it to work, this will be a huge
productivity increase. The elimination of lead preparation and lead cutting
is a huge savings also.

I am a home surface mount enthusiast, and now do all my prototyping with
surface mount on surf boards and copper clad for a ground plane. I estimate
it takes about half the time needed for a through hole prototype.