Essential materials for the fix of printed circuit boards; a guide from Exception PCB

The fix of a printed circuit board is a very labour intensive process, which usually relies more on the operator’s expertise than automation through computer software. In this article, experts from Exception PCB (http://www.applegate.co.uk/electronics/exception-1181103.htm) identify some of the basic equipment which can be necessary to ensure that PCB repair is done correctly.

An ergonomic work station is a must; good repair work just cannot be carried out at a dining room table or cramped desk. Executing the repair of a circuit table requires a high degree of skill and concentration, and as such any workstation which is sturdy, large and comes with the necessary gentle and sockets is essential. If at all possible, Exception PCB says that the workstation needs to be bolted to the floor to boost stability.

A stereo microscopic lense of a high quality will also be needed. Accurate repair is impossible without this bit of equipment, and only having constrained access to it (if you’re employing a friend’s microscope, for instance) is not enough as it will need to be used practically constantly. In order to see and also work with the very minute, great traces, Exception PCB experts say that the microscopic lense will need to have a decent light; dietary fibre optic or halogen ones are best.

Excellent soldering tools are a crucial portion of carrying out comprehensive PCB repair, in accordance with Exception PCB. Repair technicians won’t be able to carry out precise work using standard soldering tools. They need high quality soldering iron which are ergonomically designed, very controlled and come with a assortment of small tips for soldering the tiny parts of the board.

A preheating stop may also be needed, to heat up the circuit board before parts are taken out; this reduces the risk of thermal shock coming from localised heating present in the particular repair area, and also really helps to speed up the re-work process. A cooker for curing and drying is effective as well. Additionally, Exception PCB says that any hotplate heat will help to maintain the board’s temperatures after it’s take out of the range, and can help to heat up the particular PCB to an ambient temperature if needed.