Pace SODRTEK ST 325 User manual

Operation and Maintenance Manual for the
SODRTEK
®
ST 325 Digital Convective
Soldering/Desoldering System
P/N 5050-0537

©2013 PACE Inc., Southern Pines, NC Page 2 of 31
All Rights Reserved
TITLE PAGE
General Information .......................................................................................................3
Introduction...........................................................................................................3
Microprocessor Control ........................................................................................3
ST 350 Precision Reflow Head ............................................................................3
Specifications .......................................................................................................3
Parts Identification................................................................................................4
Safety .............................................................................................................................6
Safety Guidelines .................................................................................................6
Usage Warnings/Cautions....................................................................................6
Servicing Precautions...........................................................................................7
System Set-Up ...............................................................................................................7
Setup ....................................................................................................................7
Vacuum Pick.........................................................................................................8
Handpiece Stand..................................................................................................8
Quickfit Nozzle Adapter........................................................................................8
Nozzle Selection...................................................................................................9
Nozzle Changeout.........................................................................................................10
Removal ..............................................................................................................10
Installation ...........................................................................................................10
Definitions......................................................................................................................10
System Power Up .........................................................................................................11
Set Up Mode .................................................................................................................11
Automatic Calibration ....................................................................................................12
Operation.......................................................................................................................13
Password.............................................................................................................13
Front Panel Selections ........................................................................................13
Pik-Vak Operation ...............................................................................................14
Component Removal; Manual Mode...................................................................14
Component Installation; Manual Mode................................................................16
Timed Removal ...................................................................................................18
Timed Install ........................................................................................................19
PC Control.....................................................................................................................22
Memory................................................................................................................22
Save ....................................................................................................................22
Recall...................................................................................................................22
Process Development ...................................................................................................24
Profile Development ............................................................................................24
General Process Guidelines .........................................................................................26
Board Preparation ...............................................................................................26
Component Positioning .......................................................................................27
Preheating ...........................................................................................................27
Corrective Maintenance ................................................................................................28
Display Error Messages ......................................................................................28
Power Source/Handpiece....................................................................................28
Packing List...................................................................................................................29
Spare Parts ...................................................................................................................29
Service ..........................................................................................................................29
“SODRTEK by PACE” LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT .......................................30
Contact Us.....................................................................................................................31

©2013 PACE Inc., Southern Pines, NC Page 3 of 31
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General Information
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the PACE SODRTEK

model ST 325 Analog Convective
Soldering/Desoldering System. This manual will provide you with the information necessary to
properly set up, operate, and maintain the ST 325. Please read this manual thoroughly before using
the unit. The ST 325 unit is a complete system designed for hot air removal and installation of SMD
components, including Ball Grid Arrays (BGAs). The following key features allow process controlled
placement and reflow of BGAs and SMD components. The ST 325 will store up to 20 profiles on its
own. A PC can be used to store additional profiles and to collect the thermocouple data.
Microprocessor Control
The microprocessor system offers precision control of temperature (closed-loop control), cycle time
(adjustable by one second increments), and blower speed provides consistent, repeatable results in
successive reflow operations. Utilizing the Quiet Flo (low noise) turbine blower, pressure/flow rate is
easily controlled and maintained at optimum levels for the particular task. A multi-level password
lock-out prevents unauthorized changes and an audible countdown timer indicates end of cycle.
ST 325 Handpiece
The user-friendly ST 325 static-safe handpiece incorporates a powerful heater and has easy-access
heat cycle and vacuum pick switches on the handle. A built-in, self-adjusting vacuum pick has a push-
pull action, allowing components to be lifted automatically after solder reflow. When utilized with the
ST 325 System work platform, the handpiece is easily converted to a precision reflow head.
The ST 325 unit is available in either the 115 VAC or 230 VAC version. The 115 VAC version system
bears the FCC Conformity Marking which assures the user that it conforms to all the requirements of
FCC Emission Control Standard, Title 47, Subpart B, Class A. This standard is designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. The 230 VAC version system bears the CE Conformity Marking which assures the user
that it conforms to all the requirements of (EU) directive EMC 89/336/EEC & 73/23/EEC.
Specifications
•ST 325 - Operates on 97-127 VAC, 60 Hz (115 VAC version)
575 Watts maximum at 120 VAC, 60 Hz
•ST 325E - Operates on 197-264 VAC, 50 Hz (230 VAC version)
575 Watts maximum at 230 VAC, 50 Hz
•Air Temperature Range - 149°C - 482°C (300°F - 900°F)
•Timing Control - 10 to 999 seconds with 1 second resolution. (does not include preheat time)
•Blower Air Flow Rate (measured at heater) - 20 SLPM (0.7 SCFM) minimum at highest speed (9).
- 5 SLPM (0.18 SCFM) minimum at lowest speed (1).
•Vacuum (at Pik-Vac Port) - 7.6 cm Hg. (3 in. Hg.) minimum.
NOTE: The ST 325 is designed for cyclical usage. Attempts to use in continuous operations by
taping the handpiece Cycle Switch or other methods may void Blower Assembly warranty.
•Component Capacity - (maximum size) - 5.1 cm x 5.1 cm (2” x 2”)
Physical Parameters
Size - 133 mm H x 260 mm W x 248 mm D (5.25” H x 10.25” W x 9.75” D)
Unit Weight - 4.3 Kg. (9.5 lbs.)

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Parts Identification
Power Switch
Scroll Keys
Menu Key
Select Key
K-type
Thermocouple
Receptacle
LCD
Display
Earth Ground Receptacle AC Power Receptacle
Fuse
RS 232 PC Input
Pre-Heater Receptacle
(ST 450)
Remote Controller
Receptacle
Fuse
LoFlo Pump
Switch
LoFlo Vacuum
Port

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Vacuum Pick Switch
- Activates & deactivates vacuum pump supply to
the Vacuum Pick Assembly. Switch must be depressed for a period of
0.5 second before circuit deactivation; activation is immediate.
CYCLE SWITCH
- Activates reflow cycle (heat & airflow). Switch
must be held to maintain activation in Manual Mode; in Timed &
Program Modes, switch is pressed & released to initiate set cycle
time. Switch can be used to abort cycle in Timed or Program
Mode operation.
VACUUM PICK ADJUST CONTROL
– Provides adjustment for
height of Vacuum Pick Assembly (& Vacuum Cup). Turn clockwise to
raise pick or counterclockwise to lower pick.
VACUUM PICK ASSEMBLY
- Provides a means to lift or
place components.
HEAT SHIELD
-Protects the operator from unintentional
contact with the heater.
VACUUM CUP
- Provides positive holding of components for positioning
during the replacement process and for lifting of the component during the
removal process.
NOZZLE ASSEMBLY
- Directs heated air from the heater
assembly to the solder joint areas for soldering or
desoldering of components. Nozzles are optional parts
ordered for a specific application.
QUICKFIT NOZZLE ADAPTER
- Allows quick nozzle
attachment and release.

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Safety
Safety Guidelines
The following are safety precautions that personnel must understand and follow when using or
servicing this product.
“NOTE”
Used to indicate a statement of company recommendation or policy. The message may relate
directly or indirectly to the safety of personnel or protection of property. NOTE is not associated
directly with a hazard or hazardous situation and is not used in place of "CAUTION", "WARNING"
or "DANGER".
“CAUTION”
Used to indicate a hazardous situation, which may result in minor or moderate injury. May also be
used to alert personnel to conditions, procedures and practices which, if not observed, could
result in damage to or destruction of the product or other equipment.
“WARNING”
Used to define additional information that if not closely followed might result in serious damage to
equipment and represent a potential for serious personnel injury.
“DANGER”
Defines additional information that if not closely followed might result in severe personnel injury or
death. Danger is not used for property damage unless personal injury risk is present.
Usage Warnings/Cautions
WARNINGS
1. A fire hazard may arise if the ST 325 is used improperly.
2. Do not use the ST 325 in the presence of an explosive atmosphere.
3. Be careful when using the ST 325 in places where there are combustible materials. Heat
may be conducted to combustible materials which are out of sight.
4. Do not apply heat from the ST 325 to one place for a long time.
5. Do not leave the ST 325 unattended while powered on.
CAUTIONS
1. The ST 325 handpiece heater assembly housing and any installed nozzle are hot when
the system is being cycled and for a period of time thereafter. DO NOT touch either the
heater assembly housing, nozzle or direct heated air stream. Severe burns may result!
2. Utilize all standard electrical safety precautions when using this or any other electrical
equipment.

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3. Always use the ST 325 with the Heat Shield installed. The Heat Shield helps to prevent
unintentional contact with the heater.
4. Always use this system in a well-ventilated area. A fume extraction system such as those
available from PACE are highly recommended to protect personnel from solder flux
fumes.
4. Exercise proper precautions when using chemicals (e.g., solder paste). Refer to the
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) supplied with each chemical and adhere to all safety
precautions recommended by the manufacturer.
Servicing Precautions
DANGERS
POTENTIAL SHOCK HAZARD - Repair procedures performed on this product should be
performed by qualified service personnel only. Line voltage parts will be exposed when
equipment is disassembled. Service personnel must avoid contact with these parts when
troubleshooting.
Precautions
The following are general safety precautions which personnel must understand and follow when
using or servicing this product. These precautions may or may not be included elsewhere in this
manual.
Safety
Electrical Requirements
The ST 325 unit draws approximately 575 Watts, which is listed on the nameplate on the
power source rear panel. A separate, dedicated AC supply line circuit may be required to
adequately power the unit/system. If your power outlet cannot provide suitable power,
arrange for a qualified, licensed electrician to install one for you.
System Set-Up
Set up the ST 325 system using the following steps and associated drawings.
1. Remove the ST 325 from its shipping container(s). Store the shipping container(s) in a
convenient location. Reuse of these containers will prevent damage if you ship or store the
system.
2. Set the ST 325 unit on a convenient workbench.
3. Place the POWER Switch (on power source front panel) in the "OFF" or "0"
position.
4. Inspect all system components to check for shipping damage and to ensure that all
purchased components (standard and options) are present. Use the drawings provided in
the following pages as a guide for checking the parts that come with the unit.

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Vacuum Pick
Set-Up
1. Locate the Pik-Vac (P/N 7027-0001-P1) and the Vacuum Cup
Kit (P/N 6993-0154) supplied with the system.
2. Attach the ridged end of a male quick connect hose mount
Fitting to each end of the Air Hose.
3. Attach one male quick connect hose Fitting (with attached Air
Hose) to the rear of the Pik-Vac Handpiece.
4. Insert the other male quick connect hose
Fitting (with attached Air Hose) into the LoFlo Vacuum Port.
5. Attach the Metal Vacuum Tip, with the appropriate vacuum cup,
to the end of the Pik-Vac Handpiece.
Handpiece Stand
Using the supplied hardware, attach the Handpiece
Retainer and the Mounting Bracket as shown.
QuickFit Nozzle Adapter
The ST 325 QuickFit Adapter allows you to easily change out any
PACE ST 325 Nozzle. Attach the adapter to the handpiece heater
using the following instructions.
1. Insert the QuickFit Adapter into the end of the handpiece heater as
shown.
2. Position the QuickFit Adapter so the Line on the heater is aligned
with one of the 3 lines (1 long & 2 short lines) on the Locking
Collar. Tighten Collar Locking Screw to secure adapter in position.
Mounting
Bracket
Handpiece
Retainer

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Nozzle Selection
Selection of the proper Nozzle is essential for achieving a quality component removal or installation. Each
ST 325 Nozzle is designed to properly direct the heated air. Custom nozzles are available upon request.
ST 325 Nozzles are available in 4 basic configurations.
Vented Air Nozzles (V-A-N)
Are used for removal/replacement of BGA components.
Box Nozzles
Used for removal/replacement of surface mount components having solder
connections on 4 sides of the component (e.g., QFPs & PLCCs).
Pattern Nozzles
Used for removal/replacement of surface mount components having solder
connections on 2 sides of the component (e.g., SOICs).
Single Jet Nozzles
Available in straight, curved and flat end versions, these nozzles are used for
removal/replacement of small surface mount components (e.g., chip components),
small QFPs, Land Grid Arrays (e.g., those used on pagers & cellular telephones) or
for reflowing solder on single solder connections.
Template Selection
Alignment Templates are used as an aid in aligning V-A-N Nozzles to the PCB Assembly when installing
Ball Grid Arrays (BGAs). The I.D. (Inside Dimension) of the template should
match the perimeter of the BGA land pattern.
Vacuum Cup Selection
Selection of the proper size vacuum cup is important for achieving an adequate
holding force for each component. The cup selected should be as large as
possible without exceeding the body size of the component. Vacuum cups are
consumable items which deteriorate over a period of time.

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Nozzle Changeout
Removal
WARNING: Never remove a heated nozzle using bare hands. Use the Rubber
Pad. Never use a wrench or pliers when removing a nozzle.
1. While holding the Rubber Pad, gently twist the nozzle as shown. The nozzle
will easily release from the Nozzle Adapter.
2. Place the nozzle (still hot) on a heat resistant surface.
Installation
1. Select the proper Nozzle for your application.
2. Orient the Nozzle for best use on the component.
3. Insert the Nozzle up into the Nozzle Adapter (use Rubber Pad if nozzle
is hot). Gently twist the nozzle as shown to lock nozzle in place.
Definitions
Please read and become familiar with the definitions of each of the following terms
that are used repeatedly in the following Operation, Set-Up Mode, and Program Mode procedures.
Manual Mode: Mode of operation in which the operator sets only Operating Temperature and Blower
Speed parameters. The operator then manually performs a rework operation.
Operating Temperature: The true air stream temperature as it exits the handpiece heater assembly.
This temperature is displayed on the Digital Readout during any given rework cycle where air is flowing
through the handpiece.
Password: The password feature, when activated will prevent unauthorized alteration of stored system
parameters. If a password has been installed, the Digital Readout will display an instruction to enter the
password (a 4 key numerical sequence stored in Set-Up Mode) when a setting change is attempted.
Preheat: A preliminary process in which the work is heated at a predetermined rate from ambient to a
desired elevated temperature in order to reduce the risk of thermal shock and to reduce cycle time during
the Reflow (primary heating) process.
Profile: An established procedure for rework which includes all parameters (e.g., operating temperature,
cycle time, preheat) required for optimum rework of a particular component/pcb combination. Any
established Profile can then be utilized by entering it into system memory; the Profile can then be easily
recalled and used in the system Program Mode.
Program Mode: Mode of operation in which a profile can be stored, altered (edited), or recalled and
used to automatically sequence through the established procedure once the cycle is initiated.
Set Temperature: The operator selected air stream temperature for the particular rework cycle.
Set-Up Mode: Mode of operation in which the operator can quickly and easily enter, change or delete
system parameters (e.g., password, °C/°F display, profile deletion).

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Timed Mode: Mode of operation in which the operator enters the Operating Temperature, Cycle Time,
vacuum operation and Blower Speed parameters. When the reflow cycle is initiated, the system will
operate as per those parameters and turn off at the end of the cycle time. The operator manually
performs any other required procedures (e.g., vacuum operation, preheat) of the rework operation.
Vacuum Release Time: Time delay from the start of a Reflow cycle (in Program Mode, Install only) until
vacuum terminates to release component.
V-A-N Nozzle: Vented Air Nozzle.
System Power Up
1. Insert the female end of the power cord into the AC Power Receptacle on the rear panel of
the power source.
2. Plug the prong end (male end) of the power cord into an appropriate 3 wire grounded AC
supply receptacle.
CAUTION: To insure operator and ESD/EOS safety, the AC power supply receptacle must be
checked for proper grounding before initial operation.
Set Up Mode
The set up mode provides the option to select from the following items:
1. Password Entry
2. Temperature scale selection (°C or °F)
3. Auto Vac
4. Deletion of profiles
1. Turn Power Switch Off.
2. Turn the ST 325 On while holding the Menu Button. Release the Menu Button when the LCD
displays the Development Date (e.g., “Dev 4/06/04”). The LCD will now display “Password
Needed?” if there is no password currently stored in the system. If a password is stored, the LCD
will display “Enter Password” and “Password = 0000.” Notice that the question mark is no longer
present.
3. If there is no Password stored and you would like to create one, press the Scroll Up Button ( )
for yes and go to step 5. If there is no Password stored and you do not want to create one, press
the Scroll Down Button ( ) or the Select Button for no and go to step 6.
4. If there is a Password stored, use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the stored password.
NOTE: If an incorrect password is entered, the system will display “Wrong Password” and exit
out of the Set Up Mode.
5. Enter the Password using the Scroll Keys ( ).
NOTE: Please copy the chosen password and keep in a safe place.
6. Press the Select Button after the password is selected. The LCD will now display the desired
temperature scale (e.g., “Display is °F?”).

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7. Use the Scroll Down Button ( ) to select the desired temperature scale.
8. Press the Select Button or the Scroll Up Button ( ) to save. The LCD will now display the status
of the Auto Vac, (e.g., “Auto Vac = On”).
9. Use the Scroll Down Button ( ) to select the desired Auto Vac state.
10. Press the Select Button or the Scroll Up Button ( ) to save. The LCD will now display “Delete
Profiles?”. If you want to delete a profile, press the Scroll Up Button ( ). If you do not want to
delete a profile, press the Scroll Down Button ( ). The LCD will now display “Exit Setup?”
11. Use the Scroll Up Button ( ) for yes and the Scroll Down Button ( ) for no. If no is selected,
the program will cycle to the beginning and the LCD will display “Password Needed?”.
12. If the Scroll Up Button ( ) is selected, the LCD will flash “Delete Profile and Number -- ?”
13. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the desired profile number (1-40) and then press the Select
Key. The Screen will now ask you to confirm the deletion, (e.g., “24 are you sure?”).
14. Use the Scroll Up Button ( ) for yes and the Scroll Down Button ( ) for no.
15. If no is selected, the system will prompt the user to exit the set up mode. Use the Scroll Up
Button ( ) for yes and the Scroll Down Button ( ) for no. If no is selected, the program will
cycle to the beginning and the LCD will display “Password Needed?”.
Automatic Calibration
The ST 325 System provides precision control of temperature thanks to the closed-loop controlled circuit
design. The temperature sensor is located in the heater but utilizing the PACE Thermocouple Nozzle can
yield more accurate results due to moving the temperature sensor closer to the component. The
Automatic Calibration Procedure allows the system to calibrate for various style components as well as to
adjust for any minor offsets in temperature due to heater differences and blower speeds. Doing this will
ensure the most accurate temperature readings.
NOTE: For best results, hold a PCB up to the Thermocouple Nozzle at the same distance as the
nozzle would be from the PCB during the removal or installation process. During the
calibration it is important to avoid holding the PCB in one position too long; this will avoid
board damage during the Automatic Calibration Procedure.
Entering the Automatic Calibration Mode
1. Turn the Power Switch Off.
2. Install the Thermocouple Nozzle.
3. Press and hold the Scroll Up Button ( ) and Select Button while turning the Power Switch On.
Release these buttons when software development date appears, e.g., “Dev Date 8-20-04.”

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4. The LCD will flash, displaying “Ent Auto Temp” and “A -
Temp = ___ °.”
NOTE: The “A - Temp = ___ °“ will display the current
temperature that is set in the Manual Mode (e.g.,
“A -Temp = 700 °F”).
5. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the desired
temperature and press the Select Button to accept the entry. If the Scroll Keys are not pressed
for a duration of 5 seconds, the LCD will return to the flashing of the “Ent Auto Temp” and “A -
Temp = ___ °.”
6. The LCD will flash, displaying “Auto Blower = 7” and “Ent Auto Blower.”
NOTE: The “Auto Blower = ___ “ will display the current temperature that is set in the Manual
Mode (e.g., “Auto Blower = 7”).
7. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the desired blower speed and press the Select Button to
accept the entry. If the Scroll Keys are not pressed for a duration of 5 seconds, the LCD will
return to the flashing of the “Auto Blower = 7” and “Ent Auto Blower.”
8. Press the Cycle Button to start the Calibration Process.
NOTE: Anytime during this operation the Vacuum Button can be pressed to
escape the process.
9. Once the process is completed, the LCD will display “Save Offset?” At this time,
the offset may be saved by pressing the Up Button ( ) or the Offset Calibration
Mode may be exited by pressing the Vacuum Button on the handpiece. Either
selection will exit the Offset Calibration Mode and place the system into the
previously used menu for regular operation.
NOTE: If during the procedure the LCD displays “ Auto Cal Error,” repeat the
Auto Calibration Procedure again.
Operation
The PACE ST 325 unit is easy to operate and can be quickly set up for operation. The following steps
provide basic guidelines for rework using the PACE ST 325.
Password
The Password feature of the ST 325 system, when activated, will prevent unauthorized alteration of
stored system temperature parameters and custom settings (refer to the “Set Up Mode Section”). If a
Password has been installed, the LCD Display will display an instruction to enter the Password (a 4
digit number) when a setting change is attempted. Entry of the correct Password at this point will
allow the operator to proceed with the desired changes.
Front Panel Selections
The front panel on the ST 325 contains a four button interface which allows easy operation of the
system, including creating and modifying profiles. There are four different selections within the
Mode column. They are Manual, Timed Install, Timed Removed, and PC Control. The
following pages will provide step-by-step procedures for the various modes.

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Pik-Vac Operation
1. Use of the Metal Vacuum Tip without a Vacuum Cup attached for removal/replacement of very
small component works well but for larger components, install one of the supplied Vacuum
Cups onto the tip. For best results, use a size slightly smaller than the body of the component
to be removed or placed. For very large components, use the largest Vacuum Cup.
2. Press the LoFlo Pump Switch to activate vacuum at the handpiece. The LoFlo Pump Switch will
illuminate whenever the switch is activated.
3. Grasp the handpiece as you would a pen, with the Vacuum
Cup (or tip) pointing down and the Vacuum Control Port
pointing up.
4. Place the Vacuum Cup and/or the Metal Vacuum Tip gently
onto the top surface of the Component body. Exercise
caution to avoid bending of leads on fine pitch devices.
5. Place one finger over the Vacuum Control Port. Vacuum is now being applied to the
Component body.
6. Gently lift the Component off the PC Assembly (removal operation) or out of the component
holder (placement operation).
7. Lower the Component gently into position onto the PC Assembly (placement operation) or
component holder (removal operation).
8. Lift finger from the Vacuum Control Port to release the Component.
9. Press the Illuminated LoFlo Pump Switch again to turn off the LoFlo Pump when all Component
handling operations are completed.
Component Removal; Manual Mode
The following procedure will step through the set up procedure in the Component Removal Manual
Mode.
1. Install the proper Nozzle Assembly and Vacuum Cup onto the Reflow Head. Ensure that the
PCB assembly to be reworked and any replacement component have been properly
prepared.
NOTE: Any required preheating operation should be completed before advancing beyond
this point.
2. Set unit POWER Switch (on power source front panel) to the ON position.
3. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the Manual Mode LED.
4. Press the Menu button once. This will toggle
you to the Settings column. The LCD screen
will display the temperature and the Temp
LED will be flashing.
5. Press the Select Button once.

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6. Now select the desired temperature with the Scroll Keys ( ). Press and hold the desired
key; observe the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature increases (or decreases) in 1°and
then 10°increments as the key is held. Press the Select Button when complete.
NOTE: The minimum temperature is 149°C (300°F) and the maximum temperature is 482°C
(900°F).
7. Next, press the Scroll Down Button ( ) once. The Blower Speed LED will now be flashing.
8. Press the Select Button and select the blower speed (1-9 or 5-20 SLPM) by using the Scroll
Keys ( ). Press the Select Button when complete to save the selections.
9. If using a Single Jet Nozzle, no vacuum cup is used; proceed to step 14.
10. Using the Vacuum Pick Adjust Control, adjust the vacuum cup to a point
where the bottom of the vacuum cup is flush with the bottom edge of the
nozzle.
11. Hold the handpiece vertical to the PCB.
12. Lower the nozzle:
a) To an approximate distance of 1mm (.040”) above the PCB when using a
Box nozzle.
b) To an approximate distance of (depending on component) 1mm (.040”)
above the PCB when using a Pattern nozzle.
c) Contacting the BGA component when using a V-A-N nozzle.
13. Press and release handpiece Vacuum Cycle Switch to activate vacuum.
14. For Single Jet nozzles, hold the end of the nozzle tube above the
rework area at a height and angle which gives the best results in
your particular application.
15. Press and hold the Handpiece Cycle Switch to activate the heat cycle.
16. When complete solder melt is observed, gently lift the handpiece to
remove the component from the PCB. When using a Curved, Single Jet
nozzle, use a vacuum pickup device or tweezers to lift the component
from the PCB; steps 17 & 18 are not used.
17. Position the nozzle (with component) over a heat resistant surface.
18. Press and hold the Vacuum Cycle Switch for 0.5 second (minimum) to deactivate vacuum
and release component.

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WARNING: The component is HOT! DO NOT remove or catch the component with bare
hands. Allow the component to drop onto the heat resistant surface. Allow
sufficient time for the component and PCB to cool to room temperature before
handling.
Component Installation; Manual Mode
Install the proper Nozzle and Vacuum Cup (if not using Single Jet nozzle) onto the handpiece.
1. Set the unit POWER Switch (on power source front panel) to the ON
position.
2. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the Manual
Mode LED.
3. Press the Menu button once. This will toggle you to
the Settings column. The LCD screen will display
the temperature and the Temp LED will be flashing.
4. Press the Select Button once.
5. Now select the desired temperature with the Scroll Keys ( ). Press and hold the desired
key; observe the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature increases (or decreases) in 1°and
then 10°increments as the key is held. Press the Select Button when complete.
6. Next, press the Scroll Down Button ( ) once. The Blower Speed LED will now be flashing.
7. Press the Select Button and select the blower speed (1-9) by using the Scroll Keys ( ).
Press the Select Button when complete to save the selections.
NOTE: As an alternative to the component placement methods shown below in
steps 9 through 13, the component (except BGAs) may be positioned and
solder tacked in place on land pattern. See “Component Positioning Section”.
8. Actuate the vacuum by pressing the Vacuum Button on the Handpiece.
9. Position the replacement component directly beneath and square to nozzle.
When using Box or V-A-N nozzles, insert component body into the bottom of
the nozzle. BGA components will rest against the walls of the nozzle.
When using Pattern nozzles, position component leads beneath and in line
with the air jets on the nozzle.

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When using a Curved, Single Jet nozzle, position the component on its
land pattern (prefilled or with solder paste deposition). Solder tack
lead(s) if necessary.
10. If using a Single Jet nozzle proceed to step 15.
11. Using the Vacuum Pick Adjust Control on the handpiece, adjust the vacuum cup to a point
where the bottom of the vacuum cup touches the component body. The component is now
held in position with the vacuum cup.
12. Using the Vacuum Pick Adjust Control, adjust the position of the component:
a) To an approximate distance (depending on component) of 1-1.5mm (.040-
.060”) between the bottom of the component and the bottom of the nozzle
when using a Box or Pattern nozzle.
b) Contacting the BGA component when using a V-A-N nozzle.
13. Lower nozzle (with component) to a point where the component
leads/contacts rest gently on or just above the component land pattern.
NOTE: If component has been pre-positioned on land pattern, lower nozzle
to desired height above PCB. A height of 1-1.5mm (.040-.060")
above the PCB when using Box or Pattern nozzles is recommended.
14. Ensure that the handpiece is held vertical to the PCB (except with Single Jet
nozzles).
15. For Single Jet nozzles, hold the end of the nozzle tube above the rework area at a height and
angle which gives the best results in your particular application.
NOTE: Any required preheating should be completed before advancing beyond this point.
16. Press and hold the Handpiece Switch to activate the heat cycle.
(Heated air is now being applied to the rework area)
17. If using a Single Jet nozzle in a hand held operation, move the handpiece as necessary to
direct air flow to the solder areas requiring reflow.

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18. If vacuum is being used to hold component, depress and hold the Vacuum
Cycle Switch for 0.5 second (minimum) to stop vacuum and release the
component. Release the Vacuum Pick Switch.
19. When complete solder melt is observed, release the handpiece Cycle Switch
(to stop heating) and gently lift the handpiece from the PCB.
Timed Removal
The Timed Mode offers added process control with the addition of a user-specified cycle time and
automatic vacuum pickup/release.
NOTE: Times can be determined by visual solder melt or by the use of a thermocouple.
1. Install the proper Nozzle and Vacuum Cup onto the handpiece.
2. Set the unit POWER Switch (on front panel of power source) to the ON
position.
3. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the Timed Remove LED.
4. Press the Menu button once. This will toggle you to
the Settings column. At this point the Temp LED will
be flashing.
5. Press the Select Button once.
6. Now select the desired temperature with the Scroll
Keys ( ). Press and hold the desired key; observe
the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature increases (or decreases) in 1° and then 10°
increments as the key is held. Press the Select Button when complete.
7. Next, press the Scroll Down Button ( ) once. The Blower Speed LED will now be flashing.
8. Press the Select Button and select the blower speed (1-9) by using the Scroll Keys ( ).
Press the Select Button when complete.
9. Press the Scroll Down Button ( ) again; the Time LED will now be flashing.
10. Press the Select Button and adjust the Cycle Time as desired using the Scroll Keys ( ).
Press and hold the desired key; observe the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature
increases (or decreases) in 1 second and then 10 second increments as the key is held.
Press the Select Key when finished to save the selections.
NOTE: Any required preheating should be completed before advancing beyond this point.
11. If using a Single Jet nozzle, proceed to step 15.
12. Adjust the vacuum cup to a point where the bottom of the vacuum cup is
approximately flush with the bottom edge of the nozzle using the Vacuum
Pick Adjust Control.
13. Hold the handpiece vertical to the PCB.

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Lower the nozzle to a point approximately 1mm (.040”) above the PCB when
using Box or Pattern nozzles. Lower the nozzle to contact a BGA component.
14. For Single Jet nozzles, hold the end of the nozzle tube above the rework
area at a height and angle which gives the best results in your particular
application.
15. Press and release the handpiece Cycle Switch to activate heat cycle.
16. The LCD will display the remaining cycle (“Reflo”) time counting down. At 5 seconds before
the end of cycle, the vacuum will automatically activate.
17. At the end of the cycle, gently lift the handpiece to remove the component from the PCB.
When using a Single Jet nozzle, use a vacuum pickup device or tweezers to lift the
component from the PCB.
18. Position the component over a heat resistant surface.
19. Depress and hold the Vacuum Pick Switch for 0.5 second (minimum) to
deactivate vacuum and release component.
WARNING: The component is HOT! DO NOT remove or catch the
component with bare hands. Allow the component to drop onto
the heat resistant surface. Allow sufficient time for the
component and PCB to cool to room temperature before handling.
Timed Install
The following procedure will step you through the set up procedure in the Timed Install mode.
Installation times can be determined by visual solder melt or by the use of a thermocouple.
NOTE: For best results, begin by adding 10% to the removal time.
1. Install the proper Nozzle Assembly and Vacuum Cup (if not using Single Jet nozzle) onto the
handpiece.
2. Set the unit POWER Switch (on front panel of power source) to the ON
position.
3. Use the Scroll Keys ( ) to select the Timed Install LED.

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4. Press the Menu button once. This will toggle you to the Settings column. At this point the
Temp LED will be flashing.
5. Press the Select Button once.
6. Now select the desired temperature with the Scroll Keys ( ). Press and hold the desired
key; observe the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature increases (or decreases) in 1°and
then 10°increments as the key is held. Press the Select Button when complete.
7. Next, press the Scroll Down Button ( ) once. The
Blower Speed LED will now be flashing.
8. Press the Select Button and select the blower speed
(1-9) by using the Scroll Keys ( ). Press the Select
Button when complete.
9. Press the Scroll Down Button ( ) again; the Time LED will now be illuminated.
10. Press the Select Button and adjust the Cycle Time as desired using the Scroll Keys ( ).
Press and hold the desired key; observe the Digital Readout as the Set Temperature
increases (or decreases) in 1 second and then 10 second increments as the key is held.
Press the Select Key when finished to save the selections.
11. If installing a BGA component with the ST 325 handpiece mounted
on ST 500, do the following:
a) Place the Alignment Template over the land pattern. Tape in
place using a heat resistant tape.
b) Align the template until the perimeter of the land pattern is
centered inside of the template.
c) Lower the handpiece (with nozzle) until it is slightly above the
PCB assembly rework area.
d) Adjust the PCB to center nozzle squarely over template.
e) Raise handpiece from PCB.
f) Remove Alignment Template.
12. Using the Vacuum Pick Adjust Control, adjust the vacuum cup to a point where the bottom of
the cup is flush with the bottom edge of the nozzle.
13. Press the Vacuum Pick Switch to activate vacuum.