Modding Sloder small wires to USB connection.

I really need advice on soldering very fine wires to very fine connections.

First of all holding the component parts in place so I have my hands free is the first issue. I do have one of these but am still finding it difficult to hold both the wire and connector in exactly the right position.

I am not sure if I have the right type of solder or even if there is a right type for my purpose.

Do I need a separate flux? If so what?

Anything you have that might help will be much appreciated.

 

For smaller items I always make sure I pre-tin the wire and the connector separately first, this then means you don't need to hold solder freeing up a hand. Athough my 'helping hand' is home made, I always put the connection on one side, the wire in another but slightly loose so I can solder with one hand and guide the wire into the correct place by moving the wire arm steadly till I hit the right spot. Should really be a simple case of touching the wire/connector to heat the solder you applies first, removing the heat and holding still for 2-3sec.

You shouldn't need a separate flux for wire to connection joins, I never need it so don't see there would be a need in your case. Any general purpose solder should be fine, I personally used lead solder as lead-free is a little harder to work with at times.

 

Thanks Dave, very useful. I think I am going to need a bigger magnifying glass as my eyesight is pretty crap for close up work.

 

I don't really use a helping hand - I use tape sometimes to tape bits to circuit boards so I can line stuff up a little better.

I do what Dave does and just tin both sides - but normally, I just tack solder everything, then resolder to get a nice joint once everything is tacked and holding.

 

The tape idea looks good. The USB connector is an odd shaped item with slightly higher sides where the pins/grooves are for the wires so yes tape might work. Thanks mate..

 

These pictures show what I mean

 

In your case, the connections need to be flat against the board, instead of pointing upwards (thats how tracks get ripped off of boards). As said above, tin the wire and then cut it to length. Tin the solder pad too, but make sure your tip is clean (snigger) and not too hot, because you'll end up with dry joints.

 

won't it also help to use some thinner solder wire?

 

If using tape it's best to use masking tape as there's little chance of the glue on the tape transferring via the heat of the soldering iron and making a sticky mess.

That's what we were taught on my apprenticeship at British Aerospace anyways.

 

Thanks all, going to have another go later todayusing your tips. Will post back on the result.