How to Keep Solder Balls Separated

Soldering large wires and connections is usually fairly easy if you have a little experience. When soldering smaller connections or those that are close together, it can be difficult to keep the balls of solder separated so that the electrical current doesn't become bridged. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can control the size of the solder balls and solder nearly any size connections without bridging them together.

Fine-tip soldering iron
Small-gauge solder
Solder vacuum

Instructions

- 1
  Place the soldering iron against the tip of one wire or pin for a few seconds and place the solder against it until a ball of solder is formed. Remove the iron.
- 2
  Place the soldering iron against the other soldering point for a few seconds, then place the wire or pin against the heated point, then remove the iron almost immediately. The ball of solder should melt slightly and attach the wire or pin without spreading.
- 3
  Remove excess solder by placing the soldering iron against it and heating the solder joint until it melts. Place the tip of the solder vacuum against the melted solder and push the button. The excess solder will be vacuumed into the tool.
- 4
  Repeat the process for any other solder points, removing the excess solder if the balls of solder become connected.

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