RCSD-2013-03 - Rcsoaring.com

The end of the 4' soldering iron cordconsists of a keyed 6-pin DIN plug whichconnects to the face of the solderingstation. The soldering station power cordis 54" long and has a standard 3-pronggrounded plug.Once plugged in, the soldering stationtemperature adjustment knob is rotatedto the appropriate heat level (divisionsare in Farenheit and Celsius) and the unitcan then be turned on using the switchon the right side of the unit. The knobcan and should be locked in positionwith the screw on the underside of theknob mount with the included hexagonwrench.The lamp on the front of the solderingstation comes on when power is appliedand begins blinking when the settemperature is reached. The solderingiron tip heats quickly and is up totemperature in less than 60 seconds.The soldering station base is four byfive inches. Its three pound weightand rubber feet give it stability onthe workbench. The soldering iron islightweight at under two ounces andfits comfortably in the metal holder. Themetal holder has sponge cleaning padsin a depression up front and a metalcleaning sponge in a special lippedopening. The holder comes apart foreasy cleaning when the need arises andis as stable on the workbench as thesoldering station.The temperature range goes from400°F to 900°F; the manufacturer statesthat the set temperature is maintainedwithin plus or minus less than 2°F atidle. For those of you with a calibrated“tip thermometer,” adjustments to thesoldering station settings can be madeusing the included CAL adjustmentdriver. There are nearly 30 optional tipsavailable for the FX-8801 soldering ironif you don’t care for the conical tip whichcomes with the set.The Hakko FX888 and FX8801are designed so that electrostaticdischarging is prevented by groundingthe combined unit. As well, Hakkosays that the unit does not give off anyspurious radio signals.The manual is illustrated with clean linedrawings and provides exploded viewsof both the soldering station and thesoldering iron. There is a detailed partslist and a trouble shooting guide.Using the FX8801 soldering iron is a joy.It fits the hand feels good, and is easilymanipulated. It’s quite a difference fromthe “antique” soldering pencils I’ve usedsince the 1960s. The tip temperature ofour unit seems to be very consistent,even under use, no doubt due to itssubstantial 65W power draw.Although the FX-888 has now beensuperceded by the FX-888D digital unit,Hakko is a company in business fornearly 60 years, so parts for the FX-888are sure to be available far into the future.Additionally, because of the advent ofthe digital version, the analog FX-888can now be found with substantial pricereductions as remainders are sold off.If you’re looking for a temperaturecontrolled soldering station with the look,feel and performance of professionalequipment at a very reasonable price,the Hakko FX-888 soldering station andFX-8801 soldering iron combinationdeserves your attention.American Hakko Products Inc.Production Automation CorporationAlso available through Amazon.com andother retailers.March 2013 47