MOTM

On May 7, 2006, at 11:18 AM, lfosynth2000 wrote:

>  Hi Im building my first Motm modules.
>  I was wondering why Motm doesnt use IC socket for the IC chips?
>

Sockets are always a potential source of trouble.  The contacts can
corrode or become weak and fail to make good contact, which
can lead to strange symptoms.  And, if the module is subject
to a lot of vibration (say, while being trucked to a gig), it can
cause the ICs to fall out.

Occasionally, where a design has to use a particularly troublesome
part, Paul will put in a socket for that.  But in most cases, you are
really better off without.  I guess your concern is damaging an IC
with heat during soldering.  Rest assured, decent soldering
technique will avert that problem.  I'm nowhere near the best
solderer in the world, but I've built a number of modules and I
have yet to lose an IC due to soldering heat.