Farnell/element14 offered us free stuff to test drive advertise for them. We hardly ever buy from Farnell, but hey, free. We wanted something we could actually try out and evaluate in the workshop. There’s not much point in comparing capacitors from Farnell and Mouser.
A couple types of flux seemed like a good idea: EDSYN FL22 Flux 5ML and Fry Powerflow Flux 50GM. Flux helps solder flow better, and keeps it out of places you don’t want it. Don’t even try to solder without copious amounts of this magic goo. Flux is a product we can use a lot and give an honest opinion about.
Our current syringe of flux is surplus from an old Philips factory. According to the label it expired in 1991. It’s the first and only syringe we’re ever used, and there’s still lots to spare. The flux still works great, though the spout is starting to crust over. We tried to replace it with a flux pen but it was disappointing.
This flux will get a workout on our next couple prototypes. We’ll let you know know if it’s our new go-to product, or if we’re back with old crusty.
In the Netherlands Farnell only delivers to companies unless you order for at least 50 Euro (before taxes). Probably won’t buy anything from Farnell in the near future. So it’s not likely I will use this flux ever. Good to know they have it and maybe there are more suppliers?
They have a similar restriction here in the UK, but I think the limit is 30 pounds before taxes here.
I have a follow up on this. I just talked (yeah, on the phone) to a nice guy at Farnell. He said you can use the export site. It ships next day from the UK (4.50 shipping), 20% UK VAT is charged, and you can check out with a credit card.
I don’t mind ordering 50E if I have to, but individuals can’t order online at all, you have to send a written order. Then you have to do a bank transfer to pay. Ugh. Next time I need a cheap reel of C or R, I’ll give the export site a shot.
Ordered at Farnell using the Export page.
Order was shipped on Monday and goodies arrived the next day! Works great!!
Nicely packed in a ‘paper’ bag with bubble plastic on the inside. Each component in its own anti-static bag.
Would have preferred PayPal instead of Credit Card but you can’t have it all.
Tried a flux pen twice now and each time it was a disappointment. Still using a syringe of flux from Chipquik i’ve bought a few years ago and it works great :)
The flux pen’s sitting in my desk drawer, not really sure what to do with it.
Perhaps i’ll give it another go in a few months, get disappointed again and toss it back in the drawer.
I am still using a tin of flux I got 20 yrs ago/ just dip a tothpick, or a small dental probe in and bingo, works like a champ.
I fell asleep with Jeri Elsworths video on DDS but woke up to a dream of flux pens. First action is to drop ny on DP and see an blog on fluxes.
I did not even dream of Jeri, something must be wrong with me lol.