Editing Skillet reflow

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== Skillet Reflow Soldering ==
(or more accurately, Hot Plate Reflow Soldering)

A simple method of reflow soldering, the basic steps are:
* Apply [[solder paste]] to the board (See the Stenciling external link, '''Warning: Solder Paste is hazardous''')
* Place the components with a pair of tweezers (pretty close will often do, the solder will pull small parts into position)
* Lay the board on an electric skillet or hot plate
* Crank up the heat
* Watch for the solder paster to melt
* Turn the heat off

Notes: The surface heating element may not cover the entire plate surface, creating hot and cool spots in the process. To counter this, when observing the soldering process gently move the board to melt solder in any cool spots. {{cite web|http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/present.php?p=Reflow%20Skillet#Hot%20Plate%20Reflowing}}.

See also: Some people claim that [[toaster oven]]s are better than skillets for reflowing PCBs full of electronic components.

== Safety Warnings ==

Solder paste contains lead and is a hazardous material. Be certain you research proper safety procedures before handling or storing it.

== External Links ==
* [[Basic soldering]]
* [http://www.sparkfun.com/tutorials/58 Spark Fun: Stenciling]
* [http://www.sparkfun.com/search/results?term=reflow&what=tutorials Spark Fun: Hot Plate Reflowing] -- The (Famous) Spark Fun Reflow Skillet Tutorial -- illustrated step-by-step details. Claims that hotplates are better than [[toaster oven]]s.
* [http://www.instructables.com/id/Extreme_Surface_Mount_Soldering/ Instructables: "Extreme Surface Mount Soldering"]: shows how to solder a QFN (quad flat no leads) package, also known as a MLF (micro lead frame) package.

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''FIXME:''
''Minimalist outline of the process. Needs some pictures and a Solder Paste page.''

[[Category:Techniques]]