"Cool Touch" Soldering Tool

What an unfortunate misapplication of technology this thing is. Those who already know how to solder will, for the most part, understand why it is a mediocre-to-bad idea. Those who don't, would do well to learn on a conventional soldering iron first.

For those who are unfamiliar, it uses resistance heating by passing current through the metal(s) being soldered.

I have an old gas-operated Portasol. Was not cheap, but still works. Doesn't have a thermostat but the dial on teh bottom works okay - even though it worked more smoothly when it was new.

On their web site they show a nice PQFP package - don't use it for that, the tip is too fat. But it works admirably for TV repair or similar, runs a good time on a filling and is light.

Thomas

Sure, but it's got its place. I bought one a few months ago, to toss into the "travel" tool kit, as a quick-and-easy means to solder something in need of a rapid repair. It's filled that role pretty admirably. I am a bit worried about the apparent fragility of the tip, but since these things are widely available for under $20 for the whole thing, not all THAT worried.

Bob M.