SOLDERING THE SMALL STUFF

Again, seeing the handiwork of the itinerant Mic Neophyte has prompted another MIC MORSEL:

The same caution used in preventing delicate mic innards from being exposed to damage from excess heat can have REVERSE effects. Let's assume that you WON'T be using a pistol-like soldering "gun" (such as the famous black Weller design) or any type of gas torch, OK? A soldering station with interchangeable heat-regulating tips is what you'll need. The problem I'm referring to occurs when a lower temperature tip is used (indicated by a lower single digit number) and too much time is spent with the soldering tip in contact with delicate components/parts/elements trying to get solder to go fluid and make a good solid conductive connection. My method? I'll typically use a Weller pencil with a #9 tip (HOT!) and do the work as fast as is practical and effective, giving little time for heat to spread out into the uninvolved surrounding tissues -and perhaps cause irreparable damage. It takes practice and familiarity with the tools and materials you're using, but the benefits are self-evident -and the mic you save could be your own...