Get regulated (was: New to list)

[Theo]

> In my experience, temperature regulated soldering irons are
> so superior to unregulated that I would not use anything
> else! Besides, it's hard enough for a novice to learn to
> solder in the first place, without being burdened with a
> crappy iron. Regulated irons heat up faster, hold
> temperature better, and are less likely to damage the
> components due to overheating. The downside is higher
> prices and larger footprint, but I feel it is well worth it.
>
> Hope this helps,
> ----------------------
> Doug Tymofichuk
> dougt at cancerboard.ab.ca


Indeed,
however some of the cheap regulated irons are not that much fun.

There is a very good and cheap! regulated station from voltcraft type no. LS
50,
really think it's "the hot tip" ;-) for the monent.
Feature list:
three prog. temprature presets,
ground connection,
intergrated temp sensor in the iron,
temp readout display,
1 degree temp  resolution
and a stand by timer.

Cost about $60 (fl 129,- / 120 DM / 2400 BF ) that is less than half the
price i payed for my WTCP!
A comparable station from weller sits in the $250 range.

Well maybe this info is usefull for someone,
Cheers Theo