Have you ever seen soldering this close? [video] (youtube.com)

Article summary

A video showcasing close-up soldering using a microscope has sparked a discussion about soldering techniques and tools. The video demonstrates soldering with and without flux, and the use of a high-quality microscope to capture the process. The type of microscope used is a Keyence VHX-7000N, which is a high-end model. The discussion revolves around the techniques and tools used in the video, as well as the challenges and best practices of soldering.

Main themes

• Soldering techniques
• Microscope usage
• Soldering tools
• BGA packages
• Surface tension
• Soldering challenges

What commenters say

• Using a stereo microscope is essential for precise soldering, especially when working with small components.
• The Keyence VHX-7000N microscope used in the video is a high-end model that provides excellent image quality, but its price is prohibitively expensive for many individuals.
• Surface tension plays a crucial role in self-centering BGA packages during soldering, but this process can be affected by various factors such as solder amount and temperature.
• Some commenters disagree on the importance of precise alignment in BGA soldering, with some arguing that partial alignment is possible, while others claim it's an all-or-nothing situation.
• The use of hotplates for soldering is a topic of debate, with some arguing that it's a viable option, while others prefer more controlled temperature profiling methods.
• The amount of solder used is critical in ensuring proper connections, and too little or too much solder can lead to defects such as bridged balls.
• X-ray inspection may be necessary to detect certain defects, such as head-in-pillow defects or bridged balls, that can occur during the soldering process.
• The self-centering ability of BGA packages can be influenced by factors such as package size, with smaller packages being more prone to tombstoning during reflow.