[sdiy] Desoldering techniques for chips that you want to keep?

[Scott Gravenhorst]

steve jones <stevejones at hotpop.com> wrote:
>Newbie stuff.... I've always used chip sockets for my DIY projects so
>far, so this is new to me...
>I'm looking for info on how to desolder and remove chips from a
>circuit board without damaging either. Should I use a solder sucker or
>copper braid? Flux? Soldering iron size / power? Should I add new
>solder to start with? How tough are chips anyway?
>General advice most welcome.
>Steve

Soldering iron - I use the same one I do soldering with, a small one, I think 35 watts.

As far as solder-wick vs. a sucker, I like the sucker, but many like the wick.  I
think it's possible to find circumstances where either one might be preferable. 
I'd say have them both on hand since neither is expensive.

For a sucker, sometimes it is better to add a tiny bit of new solder to make sure
the sucker's draw hole gets a good liquid meniscus and seals before the vacuum is
applied.  If the solder is sparse on the board, adding solder helps.

The main thing is don't overheat.  Even a low wattage iron can overheat a joint if
it's left in place too long.  Knowing when to remove it just takes doing it a few
times, you'll get the hang of it.

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