TVM - I'm looking for something that has a LOUD continuity tester. (I've run
across too many meters that you can barely hear.) I don't need portability,
and I'm tired of changing batteries. Are there any models that run on AC?
(Turn it on, and leave it on is my motto.)

Clamp on DC ammeter - Are there any models that go down to milliamp range?

Soldering Iron - I'm looking for something decent that won't burn up tips
when left on for hours on end. I would also like interchangeable tips to
range from heavy duty to fine soldering.

Any on-line vendors to order this stuff from?

Thanks,
Bob Donahue, ND9B

"Bob D." wrote:
(snip)
Soldering Iron - I'm looking for something decent that won't burn up tips
when left on for hours on end. I would also like interchangeable tips to
range from heavy duty to fine soldering.

I bought my son one of these and he is very happy with it.
http://www.tequipment.net/Hakko936.html

--
John Popelish

"Bob D." wrote in message
newsCmYc.64931$9d6.8103@attbi_s54...
TVM - I'm looking for something that has a LOUD continuity tester. (I've
run
across too many meters that you can barely hear.) I don't need
portability,
and I'm tired of changing batteries. Are there any models that run on AC?
(Turn it on, and leave it on is my motto.)

Clamp on DC ammeter - Are there any models that go down to milliamp range?

Soldering Iron - I'm looking for something decent that won't burn up tips
when left on for hours on end. I would also like interchangeable tips to
range from heavy duty to fine soldering.

Any on-line vendors to order this stuff from?

Thanks,
Bob Donahue, ND9B


Bob -

You need to use a temperature controlled soldering station (period)

The Haako 936 has already been mentioned -- I actually do not own one.

I use the Weller TCP series which has been around for 50 years -- and is
very easy to repair.
Many list members use it from surface mount (1/32" conical tip) to
boatanchor repair (1/8" screwdriver tip)
Collins used them when Weller first marketed them on the assembly lines for
the Collins "S" line as well as
rework stations.
http://www.cooperhandtools.com/brand...ions/index.htm

Weller / Cooper Tools introduced "their answer" to the Haako 936 18 months
ago, which is the Weller WES51.
This station is readily available for same price as Haako. Both of these
stations are available at Fry's Electronics here in Chicago.
Almost all of the Weller stations are also available at TriState Electronics
in Mt. Prospect, IL

Weller also has just started in annual "Fall Promotion" (September 1 -
December 31, 2004)
http://www.cooperhandtools.com/fallpromo/index.html

If you would like to talk to a dealer for various alternatives -
Consolidated Electronics in Dayton, OH is a good dealer for you.
Ask for Steve Coy (who is a ham and on the Dayton Hamvention committee).

Warranty repair for Weller is available in Apex, NC

If you desire one of the Weller stations I have restored or found a broken
WTCP unit you need repaired, contact me directly.

Greg

"Bob D." wrote in message
newsCmYc.64931$9d6.8103@attbi_s54...
TVM - I'm looking for something that has a LOUD continuity tester. (I've
run
across too many meters that you can barely hear.) I don't need
portability,
and I'm tired of changing batteries. Are there any models that run on AC?
(Turn it on, and leave it on is my motto.)

Clamp on DC ammeter - Are there any models that go down to milliamp range?

Soldering Iron - I'm looking for something decent that won't burn up tips
when left on for hours on end. I would also like interchangeable tips to
range from heavy duty to fine soldering.

Any on-line vendors to order this stuff from?

Thanks,
Bob Donahue, ND9B


Bob,

One more point, IF you do order via the Internet --
order your selection of tips at the same time as the station (especially
with Haako from TE Equipment)

Many have a minimum order of $ 25 to $ 40 -- depending upon firm.

If you want suggestions on tips, let us know what you are soldering -- I
have a recommended list of abut 4 tips varieties.

Greg
w9gb

"Bob D." wrote in message
newsCmYc.64931$9d6.8103@attbi_s54...

Clamp on DC ammeter - Are there any models that go down to milliamp
range?

HP made one many moons ago. It is so old that it is 100% tube. I carefully
guard the one at work whenever there is a housecleaning.

Don't buy Draper tools!

I recently purchased a 100W soldering iron from them.....
1. The bit fell out and burnt the carpet after some 10 minutes use.
2. After being left on for an hour or two (cumulative annoyances in
trying to solder a PL259 onto the coax braid), the tip has a large hole
in the end.

Not having learnt my lesson, two days ago I purchased a pair of rotary
pliers for punching holes in leather - after punching 3 holes, 4 of the
punches fell out of the rotary selector, where they were supposedly
a force fit.

(Buying Chinese-manufactured goods can spoil your love
affair for engineering - you get a "Chink" in the amour!)

"Bob D." wrote in message
newsCmYc.64931$9d6.8103@attbi_s54...
Soldering Iron - I'm looking for something decent that won't burn up tips
when left on for hours on end. I would also like interchangeable tips to
range from heavy duty to fine soldering.