Intro to Surface Mount Soldering: Star Build

Learn to surface mount solder and build a blinky VHS star!

Imagine being able to make tiny circuit board projects that fit in small places or being able to repair the motherboard on your laptop? You can do it if you know how to surface-mount-solder (SMD). Plus, you will be cool, and all your friends will be jealous. :-)

What you'll make (size approx. 1.5" X 1.5"):

This blinky star badge was designed and produced by wizard of SMD, Tom Keddie. Thanks Tom!

What is Surface Mount Soldering?
SMD stands for "Surface Mounted Diode" and means...electrical components are mounted on the surface of the board (as opposed to through the board). Laptops and mobile phones are all SMD devices.

How hard is SMD Soldering?
Not hard at all! It's true this is fiddly handwork but it can be very zen and also very satisfying. Components are placed with tweezers before being soldered (either by hand, or by oven). It's good to have steady hands though, so layoff the redbull or coffee right before the event. :)

What will you learn?
In this workshop you will get an introduction to surface-mount soldering, including hand-soldering, and using VHS's reflow toaster oven. We'll watch a couple of videos but most of the time will be spent working on your own project. You'll learn how to solder simple and complex components like resistors, caps, and chips.

What is the class size and what should I bring?
You'll be one of only 6 people and everything you need will be provided. Feel free to bring optional reading glasses, visors, or other magnifying devices that you might own. A few visors will be on hand on the night, and it is possible to work on the board without a visor. :)

Pre-requisites:
Being able to hand solder through-hole components.

Note: The workshop will likely take 2 hours, but the space will be open until 10pm in case extra time is needed. This will be a fun time, so come on down. All proceeds from this event will go to the purchase of solder paste and other SMD supplies for the hackspace.