Fixing a failed XBOX TSOP flash

[basman74]

Now the question is, how do i get solder back in to this hole which I can't even see?!!?!

Hi there,

Okay, what do I see?

Well, if by 'hole' you mean the stuff you've indicated within a red circle (or oval), then there's no 'hole' (i.e. neither 'via' nor through-hole pad) at all inside the indicated area from what I can tell, simply a (very tiny) pair of surface pads for a type 0603 (or 0402?) SMD resistor..

Could it be that your iron inadvertently 'swallowed up' component R7R4?! If so, you'll need to find that component on the tip of your iron (or wherever it is now and put it back in!

Regards,
Valentin

[basman74]

In the circle are two solder points which I needed to connect. The one to the left is the one that vanished (not the piece to the left of the circle), and I can't see a hole as it seemed to fill in with the wax that builds up on the board when ever I put the iron near it.

Ahh, ok got it now R7R4 is just a shorting link. Well in that case as rich said 'follow that trace' As for clearing the hole (also known as a 'via') I cannot see the hole either (got any higher-res images of the area of interest?)

One trick I use for connecting up to really small via's that may be clogged (doesn't work however if the via is damaged), is to take some wire-wrap wire, strip it back a few mm, apply a wee bit of solder to it and then gently press the end of the wire up to the blocked end of the hole while heating the end of the wire with the tip of the iron.. usually what works for me!

Regards,
Valentin

[basman74]

What is Wire Wrap Wire?

This:
http://au.farnell.com/pro-power/100-30/wire-kynar-30awg-yellow-100m/dp/1202481

Though you could probably get a better price from your local electronics store! Just say to them you are looking for a small reel of 'wire-wrap' wire, shoudln't cost you more that about USD$10-15..

Alternatively, a cheaper option would be to simply steal one of the tiny copper strands from some flexible hookup wire that may also do the trick as well..

regards,
Valentin

[basman74]

Any advice on clearing that wax out of the way?

Ahh ok that's much clearer now (guess my eyes aren't what they used to be ..

Well, the 'wax' could either be solder flux residue, or (less likely at a guess) the remains of any conformal coating applied to the area. Suggest cleaning the area with isopropyl alcohol OR simply buy some 'flux remover' for a couple of dollars from your local electronics store, which is the preferred option and works well for me..


Regards,
Valentin

[basman74]

Like this!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zbIFxIqlUs

Thankx again!

Yes.

Mmmm, Lemon!

Cheers,
Valentin