Good Quality Solder for Electronics

[supsx]

What do you guys recommend for a good solder for electronics at a reasonably cheap price? Does it matter if I get a $1 roll from the dollar store? it looks pretty much the same as the $7 solder from radio shack.

[apvm]

If memory serves me right it has to do with the amount of zinc it contains...the less the better, prefer 0% zinc and 2-3% silver for high end stuff but don't quote me on it since it's at least 25 years ago.

[shawn99]

are you modding your video game system? :lol:

[supsx]

I got the $1 solder wire from the dollar store today, the crap doesn't even melt :(

Off to buy better stuff.

[2000fordfocus]

Melt solder off old electronic you done previously and use it on your new project! LoL

[eiyu]

why not go to some electronic stores.
I like supremetronic inc. (which I tend to go to buy stuff for projects)

Most common used solder (for electronic) is 60/40 blend (with or without flux core)

[supsx]

I went to local store they had cheap stuff too, same as the one from dollar store. So I didn't buy any, might just go to sourceCC and get some expensive stuff tommorow.

Also is there any way to test for good solder, I tried melting some of the solder I have with a flame from a lighter the thing wouldn't melt, just the tip melted. The one I have is a 60/40 like was mentioned. I am using a soldering iron got from sourceCC a while back with dual 20watt/40watt heat options.

[apvm]

I went to local store they had cheap stuff too, same as the one from dollar store. So I didn't buy any, might just go to sourceCC and get some expensive stuff tommorow.

Also is there any way to test for good solder, I tried melting some of the solder I have with a flame from a lighter the thing wouldn't melt, just the tip melted. The one I have is a 60/40 like was mentioned. I am using a soldering iron got from sourceCC a while back with dual 20watt/40watt heat options.

You are right sourceCC for expensive stuff but doesn't mean good stuff, you may be paying more for the same dollar shop solder.

[Paolo]

As of the last few years, All Solder being used in Electronics is the new Lead Free Rosin Core Solder. This solder is lead free, is made up of virtually the same contents as the older lead based solder, but is less harmfull for the environment. Because its LEAD-FREE, it will require more heat to bring it to its melting point. You should use a good paste or liquid based flux solvent when dealing with lead-free solder, and do NOT mix leaded and lead-free sodler together.

[Frankie3s]

Melt solder off old electronic you done previously and use it on your new project! LoL

That's actually a great idea!

[cwb27]

That's actually a great idea!

Until you get 5 minutes in and realize it's the biggest unnecessary waste of time in the world.