Seeking Perfection
The must have's:
15 watt soldering iron (for the sensitive components)
45 watt soldering iron (powerful makes it quick and painless for your electronics)
Soldering iron stand (it's a must have, we don't want fire hazards)
Wet sponge (to clean the soldering iron, makes soldering easier)
Rosin core solder (less effective alternative: pure solder and flux)
Optional but recommended
Magnifying glass (check solder joints, take macro shots with camera)
Hot air gun (mostly for removal, commercial air guns use shielding gas to prevent oxidation)
Respirator (filter out smelly fumes, great for relatively closed rooms with little ventilation)
Safety glasses (when working with irons up close)
Solder pump (aka solder sucker, sucks excessive liquid solder)
Heat shrink tubing (or electrical tape)
A work surface you don't mind leaving marks on
Any other equipments that you like to use.
Preparing your iron
The soldering iron needs to be prepared prior to work to ensure a great efficiently and accuracy. Follow the steps below for preparation.
When the iron is hot enough to melt solder, wipe it on a wet piece of sponge to rub off any oxidation and foreign residue.
After the tip looks clean enough, "tin" it with some fresh solder. This will give your iron a protective coating, and it's especially important for brand new irons. Then wipe off the solder with the wet sponge again and you're ready to go.
