B&K Precision 1655A - Manual - Manual (Page 29)

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THE NEED FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Most servicing work requires the use of a soldering iron. If the
soldering iron is plugged in only when it is needed, time is wasted
waiting for the iron to heat up. But if it is left plugged in all the
time, oxidation quickly erodes the tip. Also, soldering iron
temperature varies with line voltage. Some irons reach the ideal
temperature at 105 to 110 volts. As a result, at 120 volts, some
soldering irons are too hot, which can more easily damage
components being replaced or cause separation of circuit board
plating.
THE SOLUTION
(refer to Fig. 13)
The solution to the problem just described is a variable ac
voltage source. The soldering iron could be kept warm to reduce
oxidation of the tip, quickly brought to operating temperature
when needed, and adjusted to the exact temperature desired.
The Model 1655A AC Power Supply includes a built-in
soldering iron temperature control feature. A separate ac outlet is
provided on the rear panel. The output duty cycle at this outlet is
variable from about 70% to 99%, or the outlet can be switched off
when not in use. This outlet is intended for a soldering iron only.
It is not intended for transformer type soldering irons nor irons
rated at greater than 100 watts.
Temperature is adjusted with the SOLDER TEMP control on
the front panel. A relatively low temperature setting is
recommended between periods of soldering iron use to reduce
oxidation of the tip. This setting keeps the iron warm enough that
it can be quickly brought to operating temperature when needed.
The temperature control is non-linear, allowing for a larger
temperature variation at the low end and more precise
temperature control at the HOT end. The exact temperature
desired can be easily achieved.
The soldering iron temperature control is entirely independent
of the isolated variable voltage output, including separate on-off
switches and pilot lights. Thus the soldering iron temperature
control feature may be used with or without the other features of
the instrument.
SUMMARY OF PROCEDURE
(refer to Fig. 13)
1. Set the SOLDER TEMP control to OFF
2. Connect the ac power plug of the soldering iron to the
outlet on the rear panel of the Model 1655A AC Power
Supply. THIS OUTLET IS FOR A SOLDERING
IRON ONLY. Do not connect electronic equipment
here.
3. Turn the SOLDER TEMP control clockwise to the on
position. The amber pilot lamp will light.
4. Between periods of soldering iron use, reduce
temperature to minimize oxidation of the tip.
5. When ready to use the soldering iron, adjust the
SOLDER TEMP control to the desired temperature.
Experience will quickly determine the typical setting
for a given soldering iron.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Soldering Iron Temperature Control
SOLDERING IRON TEMPERATURE CONTROL (MODE 1655A ONLY)