Surface mount tools

Does anyone recommend a tool for holding surface mount components? I recently had to replace a surface mount transistor, SOT23 and my hand held suction tool that I use for ICs wasn't able to hang onto this tiny device. (There has to be something better than a toothpick and superglue)

gray5596 said:

my hand held suction tool that I use for ICs wasn't able to hang onto this tiny device

Click to expand...

Could you make an adapter for the tool nozzle? Can you post a pic of the tool?

People just use solder paste... It keeps it in place quite well... I take it you are using an iron rather than heatgun...

I apply gel rosin flux or simply pure petroleum jelly to the part before placing. I place & nudge with tweezers mainly, not the vacuum tools. Hot air if used at an angle can blow a part off the pads, also if the air flow rate is large the same can happen. Occasionally when replacing parts in an assembly with a steep gradient you will have to hold the part in place while using the hot air or tinned iron tip.

Mixing down old solder paste with rosin gel can improve the application process and make the pads more tacky.

Ian, yes, I was using an iron instead of a heatgun. I will try the solder paste next time and plan to shop around for a heatgun. Thanks for all the replies.