Specifications

6. COMPONENT REPLACEMENT

Surface Mount Components

Surface mount components should always be replaced using a temperature controlled soldering

system. The soldering tools may be either a temperature controlled soldering iron or a

temperature controlled hot-air soldering station. A hot-air system is recommended for the

removal of components on these boards. With either soldering system, a temperature of 700° F

(371° C) should be maintained. The following procedures outline the removal and replacement

of surface mount components. If a hot-air soldering system is employed, see the manufacturer’s

operating instructions for detailed information on the use of your system.

 CAUTION: Avoid applying heat to the body of any surface mount component using

standard soldering methods. Heat should be applied only to the metalized terminals of the

components. Hot-air systems do not damage the components since the heat is quickly and

evenly distributed to the external surface of the component.

 CAUTION: The CMOS Integrated Circuit devices used in this equipment can be destroyed

by static discharges. Before handling one of these devices, service technicians should

discharge themselves by touching the case of a bench test instrument that has a 3-prong

power cord connected to an outlet with a known good earth ground. When soldering or

desoldering a CMOS device, the soldering equipment should have a known good earth

ground.

Surface Mount Removal

1. Grip the component with tweezers or small needle nose pliers.

2. Alternately heat the metalized terminal ends of the surface mount component with the

soldering iron. If a hot-air system is used, direct the heat to the terminals of the component.

Use extreme care with the soldering equipment to prevent damage to the printed circuit board

(PCB) and the surrounding components.

3. When the solder on all terminals is liquefied, gently remove the component. Excessive force

may cause the PCB pads to separate from the board if all solder is not completely liquefied.

4. It may be necessary to remove excess solder using a vacuum de-soldering tool or Solder

wick. Again, use great care when de-soldering or soldering on the printed circuit boards. It

may also be necessary to remove the epoxy adhesive that was under the surface mount

component and any flux on the printed circuit board.