Homebrew PCBs

It was a $29 Black and Decker toaster oven -- the N&V article had 
several specific models they had tested, but none were available 
here in New Jersey.

I find that at 450degF it takes about 2 or 3 minutes to melt the 
solder.  The article made reference to crayons which melt at 
specific temperatures -- you just break off a bit and watch through 
the glass panel to see when it melts.

this is a trial, of course-- some things I have learned:

the oven has a tray which slides in and out as the glass door is 
moved open -- open the door slowly and carefully.

a very fine tweezer is worth its price in placing components.
some items will only reflow once -- like electrolytic capacitors.

DO NOT USE THE TOASTER FOR COOKING -- remember you are cooking lead !

I am going to try the stainless steel stencils next -- these are 
about as thin as a piece of paper and have cutouts where the solder 
pads should be -- you apply the paste with a squeegie --

Jack

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Stefan Trethan 
<stefan_trethan@g...> wrote:
> but how did you get the oil off after?
> i mean this sounds very messy...
> 
> but a interesting idea to use another "heating medium" than air.
> may be much faster and shorter heating time in oil because it ok