iFixit, the company renowned for its electronic repair toolkits and comprehensive repair guides, has taken a step further by launching its own Smart Soldering Iron. This new addition caters to the growing demand for soldering tools, as the company boasts over 1,000 repair guides that require soldering. Notably, the Smart Soldering Iron breaks away from the conventional design, embracing user-friendliness and making soldering more approachable, especially for beginners.
The power source plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. Instead of relying on a direct wall outlet connection, the Smart Soldering Iron is powered by USB-C. iFixit emphasizes compatibility with any USB-C power delivery source, highlighting its 65-watt GaN charger as a prime example. This innovative approach allows for greater flexibility and convenience. The company asserts that the soldering iron can reach its operational temperature in less than 5 seconds, though it acknowledges that this heating time might increase if powered by a USB-C device with a lower power delivery capacity than 65W.
For those seeking a more controlled and convenient soldering experience, iFixit offers the Portable Soldering Station. This bundle combines the Smart Soldering Iron with a portable power station featuring dual USB-C ports capable of delivering up to 100W. Equipped with a 55-watt-hour battery, the power station promises a remarkable eight hours of continuous soldering on a single charge. Beyond soldering, the station’s spare USB-C port can also be used to power devices like phones or laptops, enhancing its versatility.
While not the first USB-C soldering iron on the market, iFixit has incorporated unique features to enhance user experience. A prominent LED ring encircles the middle of the device, providing visual cues regarding its status. A blue glow indicates a tip temperature below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while purple signifies active heating or cooling. Once the desired temperature is reached, the LED turns orange, signaling readiness for use. However, setting the temperature requires connecting the soldering iron to a PC, as noted by Sean Hollister at The Verge.
iFixit’s commitment to user-friendliness is further emphasized by the inclusion of automatic sleep mode, fall protection, and an accelerometer to automatically cool the iron when not in use. These features contribute to a more secure and efficient soldering experience. iFixit confidently asserts that the Smart Soldering Iron is the perfect tool for soldering newcomers. However, it comes with a price tag of $80 for the iron itself. A bundle with the Portable Soldering Station is available for $250, while the Soldering Toolkit, encompassing the iron, power station, and an array of additional tools like a wire stripper, no-clean flux, and precision angled tweezers, costs $300. Preorders for the Smart Soldering Iron are currently open, with shipping commencing on October 15th.
