Metcal introduces the PS-800 soldering system

Citation

(2004), "Metcal introduces the PS-800 soldering system", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 16 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ssmt.2004.21916bad.016

Metcal introduces the PS-800 soldering system

Metcal introduces the PS-800 soldering system

Keywords: Metcal, Soldering

With the introduction of the PS-800 Soldering System, the Metcal division of OK International has made the most significant change in hand soldering since the introduction of their patented SmartHeat^® technology two decades back. The PS-800 Soldering System revolutionises hand soldering by combining the power and process control advantages of SmartHeat^®, with the system quality and innovative design of vintage Metcal irons, at a price that is under 250 (Plate 6).

Historically, Metcal has redefined soldering performance and now they have significantly shifted the price/performance ratio. The PS-800 Soldering System delivers the industry standard thermal performance of Smartheat@, with a compact power supply that fits on or under the bench.

However, small size and low cost belie the full capabilities of the PS-800 Soldering System. The system is pure Metcal, featuring variable power/ fixed temperature control in an iron that requires no calibration.

Cost of ownership is minimal, as the PS-800 Soldering System uses replaceable heater tips rather than cartridges. The unique Metcal two- piece design separates the heater coil from the tip. The long-life heater coil remains in the handle, while replaceable tips that contain the heater itself, are easily removed and replaced. Most importantly, the cost of the heater tips is comparable to that of conventional tips.

Metcal has developed a range of 33 soldering tip geometries for the PS-800, each available in a wide range of temperatures. In addition, enhancements to SmartHeat@ technology have allowed Metcal to employ an increased plating thickness for extended heater tip life, without reducing thermal performance.

Designed to be the perfect, compact soldering system for repetitive manual assembly and touch- up, the PS-800 Soldering System incorporates an innovative, compact power supply that fits on or under the bench.

For further information, visit the Web site: www.metcal.com

Plate 6 The PS-800 soldering system revolutionises hand soldering by combining the power and process control advantages of SmartHeat^®, with the system quality and innovative design of vintage Metcal irons, at the price that is under 250