[Elecraft] Hakko 808 Desolering

[Dean Maples]

A few comments on my use of the 808. I got mine at Outpost.com, but I
believe they have stopped carrying the 808 for some reason. Paid $169 +
shipping - best price I've found.

I've had 3 situations (all my fault) that required desoldering multipin
connectors or straightening a previously soldered connector. The 808,
although expensive for the number of times I'll use it, has saved the cost
of RF board and a display board.

My eyes aren't so hot, but using a magnifying glass and taking my time, I
was able to clean each joint out completely. When finished, I slightly
wiggled the connector and it came loose without any damage to lands on the
board. I tried this procedure without the 808 on another unnamed kit, and
there lands were flying everywhere. To me, the chief benefit is no damage
whatsoever to the board, it's fast, and it's clean, and nobody knows you
desoldered anything!! The only drawback is the price vs. the number of times
you plan to use it.

Dean, K9FTB
K2 3043