Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
When you're starting a soldering project, make sure you have a clean, well-lit workspace. Also
make sure the area is well ventilated. Solder fumes aren't very healthy, and while they're
extremely unlikely to build up to dangerous levels in low-volume hobby soldering, it's still a
good idea to keep exposure to a minimum.
In addition, you should protect the work surface in some way. It's not uncommon for small
blobs of molten solder to fall, which can burn and mark tables. You can purchase an anti-
static workmat (see Figure 13-4 for an example), but a glossy magazine works just as well.
Don't be tempted to use a few sheets of cheap newspaper—solder can burn through thin
paper before it cools.
Figure 13-4:
An example
soldering work
area, with a
protective
antistatic
workmat
If you're doing delicate, close-up work, you should wear protective glasses. Sometimes the
boiling flux inside the solder can cause it to spit upwards, and if it hits you in the eye, you'll
be in for a world of pain.
Don't let these warnings put you off soldering, however. Although solder is extremely hot, it
cools quickly and burns are not only rare but nearly always inconsequential. Respect the
equipment, but don't fear it.
With your work surface chosen and protected, lay out your equipment. The iron should be
placed on the side of your dominant hand, and positioned so that the cable isn't trailing
