MightyOhm.com

Posted: **Sun Oct 07, 2012 10:32 am**

HI,

A little bit off topic, but I was wondering - how did you get the pcb to be pre-tinned ?

It made the assembly much much easier. (I can not solder for toffee, even after reading guides, buying soldering irons etc).

Regards,
Brendan

Posted: **Sun Oct 07, 2012 11:35 am**

Hi Brendan!

When I order the PCBs, I specify that lead-free solder should be applied to all exposed pads. The manufacturer applies the solder with what is called a hot air solder leveling (HASL) process. You can see a video of this process here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqaZmPQ06B0

This improves solderability (as you noticed) and also extends the shelf-life of the boards. There are a few other finish options (such as gold plating), but this one is my favorite.

Posted: **Sun Oct 07, 2012 11:51 am**

Thanks, I know what to ask for on my next batch of PCB!

Learnt something today.

Regards,
Brendan

MightyOhm.com

Partly Off Topic: Pre-tinned PCB

Partly Off Topic: Pre-tinned PCB

Re: Partly Off Topic: Pre-tinned PCB

Re: Partly Off Topic: Pre-tinned PCB