Homebrew PCBs

On 07/07/2010 19:11, toftat@... wrote:
> OK folks, I have decided to take the plunge into building PCB's with SMD
> components. I have been putting this off for about 3 years now, but the
> availability of new parts in through hole configurations is undeniably
> reducing.
>
> Having watched many youtube videos, it seems the most important part of
> the process is the flux, however, having never bought flux outside of flux
> cored solder, I am at a loss for what I should be looking for in a flux.
> It appears that while no-clean flux has the appeal of not needing a clean
> up step, activated solder is easier to use. Should I be looking at a
> liquid or paste flux?
>
> I realize that there are probably as many opinions about this as there are
> list members, but I would like to draw on the experience of the group and
> hear suggestions...

I use solder with a no-clean flux core, but the flux isn't very active. 
I coat the pads with additional no-clean flux using a flux pen. It seems 
more active than the stuff in the solder. For drag-soldering fine-pitch 
devices I use Warton Metals' jelly flux, it comes in a convenenient syringe.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM