Attaching a patch cable

Aug 08, 2006 4 Replies
K

OK, this is pretty much a "must fail" deal, every time I see these little cables, I knew I am gonna mess it up since it's so small.



So here's the deal, I don't even know how to call this little patch cable. This kind of cable is widely used in computers, pda, and cellphones. They are attached to the board by some kind of glue. Obviously it's not the household super glue...I once tried to glue it back to the board with a toothpick and super glue, it turned out horribly of course. Since the distance between each wire on the patch is less than 1mm, I believe there are some kind of machine or special glue has to be used. Can anyone shine some light on this? Thanks a lot!



Attached is the patch cable from a PDA:

formatting link



Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
M

That looks like normal printed wiring with solder pads on the end. You have to solder it quickly but carefully. Pre-tinning and the use of liquid flux should help. Glueing (other than a tiny dab at each end *away* from the contacts to hold the ribbon in place for soldering) is pointless as it won't magically connect the wiring to the pads.

Dave

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
K

So what specific kind of equipment do I need? Do I need the solder pot? I tried to look for tutorial for this process but I can't find a good one on google.

Thanks for responding!

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
M

A fine enough tipped iron, preferably temperature controlled, some decent solder and a magnifying glass should be enough.

Dave

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
M

and from the sound of things lots of pratice before you try soldering this delicate pda..

Get some old junk electronics and learn how to solder on them first.

- Mike

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required