Hakko FX-888D Digital Soldering Station: Temperature Presets & Password Lockout Tutorial

Hakko's FX-888D Digital Soldering Station is an inexpensive, versatile tool for a variety of soldering tasks and skill levels. Boasting the quality and reliability of a Hakko soldering station, the FX-888D is the digital replacement for the popular FX-888 analog model.

We've previously told you about the Hakko FX-888D in a preview blog, Flickr photos, and an "On the Bench" video. This time, we wanted to pass on a few tips to help you get the most out of the FX-888D's digital settings.

Whether you're an existing owner, or considering purchasing your own Hakko FX-888D Digital Soldering Station, learning how to access and set certain settings will help you get the most out of this feature-rich tool. We're going to focus on three such settings: Setting preset temperatures, changing preset temperatures, and setting up and using the password lockout feature.

SETTING THE PRESET TEMPERATURES

The Preset Temperatures option on the Hakko FX-888D defaults to off. Just follow these easy steps to turn on this handy feature:

1. Turn the FX-888D on while holding the UP button (this will access the Parameters of the unit).
2. The display will show Parameter 1. Press the UP button until you get to Parameter 11 (which controls the presets).
3. Press the ENTER button and you'll see a 0 (zero means off and one means on). Press the UP button to 1, which turns on the presets option.
4. Press ENTER and you'll see 5P (this indicates you have five presets available to use). Pressing the UP button here allows you to choose how many presets you want to use (or you can just press ENTER to stick with the default five presets).
5. Pressing ENTER brings you back to Parameter 11. To save the setting, press the ENTER button until you see a Y (for yes). Pressing ENTER here saves the selections you just made.

Now you can simply press the UP button to cycle through your preset temperatures (pressing ENTER to lock in your choice).

CHANGING THE PRESET TEMPERATURES

Once you've turned on the Preset Temperatures option, you can easily change the presets to the temperatures of your choosing by following these steps:

1. Turn the FX-888D on and you'll see it comes on at 750° and winds up to that temperature.
2. Press the UP button and the default preset 3 appears and reads 750°. Hit the ENTER button to select this preset.
3. Now, we'll change the 750° to 720°. Hold the ENTER button down until the 7 starts flashing.
4. Hit ENTER to keep the 7 as is. The 5 will start flashing and now we press the UP button until the digits go round to 2 and then hit ENTER. Leave the 0 as is and hit ENTER again. Now preset 3 is set to 720°.

Repeat the process for each of the presets you want to customize.

SETTING & USING THE PASSWORD LOCKOUT FEATURE

The Hakko FX-888D has a Password Lockout feature, which encompasses two choices. The Partial Lockout allows you to lockout specific features on the unit. The Complete Lockout lets you lock all of the features. Both options will require the password to unlock. Here's how to set up each option:

Complete Lockout

1. Turn the FX-888D on while holding the UP button to access Parameter Mode.
2. Use the UP button to get to Parameter 14 and press ENTER.
3. The unit will display 0, which is off. Press UP to get to number 2 (Complete Lock). Press ENTER to choose it.
4. The display will show three dashes. These are for the password. Use the UP button to scroll through letters and numbers. Hit the ENTER button at your selected character to choose that for the password. Do this for all three dashes.
5. After the last dash is selected you'll return to Parameter Mode. To store your password you need to hold down the ENTER button. When you see the Y, hit ENTER and your password will be saved. 

From this point on, when the user attempts to change the temperature or any other setting they’ll be presented with three dashes for the password.

Partial Lockout

1. Turn the FX-888D on while holding the UP button to access Parameter Mode.
2. Use the UP button to get to Parameter 14 and press ENTER.
3. The unit will display 0, which is off. Press UP to get to number 1 (partial lock). Press ENTER to choose it.
4. After selecting Partial Lockout, the display will show you option 1 and a flashing 1 (temperature adjustment). If you want this to be password locked press ENTER or press UP to go to 0 for no and press ENTER.
5. Next you'll see option 2 (password protect the changing of presets) and a flashing 0. Zero means off and 1 means on. Use the UP button to make your selection and then press ENTER.
6. The third option is for the digital calibration feature. One means yes and 0 means no. Again make your selection with the UP and ENTER buttons.
7. Finally, the display will show three dashes for the password. Use the UP button to scroll through letters and numbers. Hit the ENTER button at your selected character to choose that for the password. Do this for all three dashes.
8. After the last dash is selected you'll return to Parameter Mode. To store your password you need to hold down the ENTER button. When you see the Y, hit ENTER and your password will be saved. 

And, again, from this point on, when the user attempts to change any of the options you password protected they'll be presented with three dashes for the password.

Pretty easy, right? Now you know how to turn on the Preset Temperatures option, change the Preset Temperatures, and set up the Password Lockout feature. We'll cover additional tips and settings in future blogs.

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Three New Lindstrom Pliers Added to QSource.com: Tools Target Assembly, Craftwork & Lead-Free Apps

Lindstrom Tools is known for creating industry-leading cutters and pliers for a number of applications such as electronics assembly, medical device manufacturing, bead & jewelry arts, and more. We're excited to tell you about three newly available Lindstrom pliers we just added to our Web site.

The Lindstrom RX7894 RX Series ESD-Safe Ergonomic Needle Nose Pliers, the 7894 Supreme Series ESD-Safe Needle Nose Pliers, and the LF7890 LF Series Lead-Free ESD-Safe, Chain Nose Pliers are now available from QSource.com. These tools fit right into the existing top-quality RX and Supreme Series and the new lead-free tools, LF Series.

RX7894 RX Series Pliers

Lindstrom's RX Series is the compilation of more than 150 years of experience and expertise in making world-renowned ergonomic pliers. The RX7894 model joins this celebrated line that has become the favorite of jewelry, bead, and wire bending artists.

The Lindstrom RX7894 RX Series Ergonomic Needle Nose Pliers with Smooth Jaw were created to meet Lindstrom's ERGO™ process for ergonomic tools: It must be suitable to the task, the user, and the environment. In addition to a comfortable, effective grip, the RX7894 has Lindstrom's adjustable Biospring to reduce tension throughout the working cycle. Other important features and specifications of the RX7894 Pliers include:

• Ergonomic, ESD-safe handles
• Two-component synthetic material
• High-performance, alloy steel needle tip polished and hardened to 55-58 HRC
• Micro-Touch shaped handles for greater control of pliers for precision work
• Screw joint to minimize friction and maximize jaw alignment
• Dimensions: Length = 6.24" (158.5 mm), Jaw length = 1.26" (32 mm), Jaw width = 0.35" (9 mm), Tip width = 0.05" (1.2 mm), Weight = 70 grams

7894 Supreme Series Pliers

Lindstrom's Supreme Series were created for general electronics work and precise wire bending applications. The 7894 ESD-Safe Supreme Series Needle Nose Pliers, like all pliers in the Supreme Series, features an advanced lap joint with a precision screw and nut, which ensures precise jaw alignment even at the extreme tips.

In addition to a special manufacturing process that provides extra-long contact surfaces, the 7894 Pliers offer the following benefits and characteristics:

• Specially made box joint
• Precise alignment of jaws
• Fits a wide range of applications
• Smooth jaw surface
• Chain tip
• Supreme white handles
• Dimensions: Length = 5.2" (132 mm), Jaw length = 1.26" (32 mm), Jaw width = 0.35" (9 mm), Tip width = 0.05" (1.2 mm), Weight = 56 grams

LF7890 LF Series Pliers

Lindstrom's LF Series pliers and cutters were created to make it easy to choose which tools were safe to use in lead-free assembly areas. The Lindstrom LF7890 LF Series Chain Nose Pliers feature ESD-safe grips in the "get the lead out" industry-standard color, green.

Perfect for a wide range of lead-free/ESD-safe applications, the 7890 Pliers offer the following specifications and characteristics:

• Great for bending wire in lead-free areas
• Green handles identify pliers as lead-free
• ESD-safe, safely dissipates electrostatic charges
• Dimensions: Jaw surface = Smooth, Tip type = chain, Handles = LF green handles, Length = 5.2" (132 mm), Jaw length = 1.26" (32 mm), Jaw width = 0.05" (1.2 mm), Tip width = 0.05" (1.2 mm), Weight = 60 grams

For other selections from the Lindstrom RX Series, Supreme Series, and LF Series pliers please visit QSource.com. We also offer a large selection of Lindstrom Cutters and shears.

For more information, or help choosing the right Lindstrom tool for your application, please call Q Source at 800-966-6020 or contact us via email. To place an order for these new pliers, or any other Lindstrom product, please visit our Lindstrom Tools Department at QSource.com.

If there's a product or topic you'd like to see The Q Source Resource write about please let us know. We'd also appreciate if you share this blog post with your friends and colleagues via the social media links below. And, as always, feel free to leave us a message in the comments section.

Q Source’s Worklon Cleanroom/ESD Garment Sale Offers Savings on Protective Apparel

Do you or your employees work in a cleanroom or ESD-sensitive environment? If so, you know how important proper safety precautions, such as wearing appropriate garments, are to protecting workers and products. Our special savings offer of an extra 10% off Worklon cleanroom and ESD garments will help you be safe AND save money.

The Worklon line, by Superior Uniform Group, features all the cleanroom and ESD apparel you have to have to add that layer of protection from head to toe. QSource.com carries more than 1660 Worklon items. Among that number is a large selection of lab coats, frocks, and cleanroom coveralls. With our wide selection, and this excellent savings opportunity, we’re sure you’ll find the protective gear you need (like this 1930-L Microdenier Sandwash ESD Raglan Sleeve Intershirt or these 1182-L LD-100 Polyester Taffeta Cleanroom Uppers Hypalon Sole Boots).

All you need to do to start saving on these high-quality Worklon items is “Like” us on our Facebook Coupons page (if you haven’t already). Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to easily access the discount code for all subsequent monthly offers on a wide selection of product solutions at QSource.com. Please note: Our April Social Networking Sale offer of 10% off Worklon garments ends on 4/30/13 and cannot be combined with other offers.

If there's a product or topic you'd like to see The Q Source Resource write about please let us know. We'd also appreciate if you share this blog post with your friends and colleagues via the social media links below. And, as always, feel free to leave us a message in the comments section.

Ergomat Infinity Mats: Could Be the Last Mat You'll Ever Buy

Ergomat wants to sell you the last mat you'll ever need to buy. Their Ergomat Infinity line of ergonomic floor mats is being touted as the "first ever ergonomic mat available with up to a lifetime warranty" and as a true "green" ergonomic mat.

The Ergomat Infinity Mat (coming soon to QSource.com) is available in smooth or bubble style with ESD versions for both and was created to offer a Polyurethane mat with both ergonomic comfort and unbeatable durability. And with a nod toward being green and protecting the planet, these long-lasting mats meet Ergomat's goal of "Reduce, Re-use, and Recycle."

Infinity Mats can be manufactured in custom shapes and sizes to fit the footprint of your workstation. And because they feature a very high chemical and UV resistance, they are perfect for use in the health care and pharmaceutical industries. Ergomat's Infinity line is also appropriate in critical areas for general industries.

In addition to their long-lasting durability and anti-fatigue characteristics, Ergomats Infinity Mats also feature:

• Molded beveled edges
• Mats will never curl up, thus eliminating tripping hazards
• Virgin raw material only
• Silicone & latex-free
• The closed cell/non-porous surface allows for easy wash down/cleaning
• Anti-static properties
• Cleanroom ISO Class 5 (100)

The regular warranty, for normal usage, of the Ergomat Infinity is 12 years. Ergomat offers the lifetime warranty option for dry or retail type environments under a service agreement. Regular usage relates to a user standing or walking on the mat while wearing regular footwear. Environmental requirements are a temperature under 77 degrees F (25 C) with humidity below 80%. The warranty covers the replacement of the mat (no direct or indirect costs are covered). So, under acceptable, regular use the Infinity Mat will truly be the last mat you'll ever need.

For more information, or to purchase an Ergomat Infinity Mat, please call Q Source at 800-966-6020 or contact us via email. To place an order for other Ergomat products please visit our Ergomat Department at QSource.com.

If there's a product or topic you'd like to see The Q Source Resource write about please let us know. We'd also appreciate if you share this blog post with your friends and colleagues via the social media links below. And, as always, feel free to leave us a message in the comments section.

3M's Got You Covered with New Products to Protect Your Ears, Head, & Electronic Components

3M™ recently made announcements for three new products: The 3M H-800 Series Full Brim Hard Hat, the 3M Peltor™ Earmuffs X Series, and the 3M Static-Dissipative Heat-Activated Adhesive Cover Tape 2679. All three with a common purpose…to offer a protective covering.

3M H-800 Series Full Brim Hard Hat

The 3M H-800 Series Full Brim Hard Hat provides head protection that is easy to wear with a nod toward alleviating workers' frustrations with hard hats. The H-800 Series Hard Hats feature a lightweight shell, new advancements in suspension design, and 3M's patented UV indicator.

Available in eleven colors and three different styles (hi-viz, non-vented, and with the optional venting), the H-800 Hard Hat aims to meet workers' demands for comfort by offering three levels of adjustment; a smooth, easy-turning ratchet suspension; four- and six-point suspension combinations (enabling the hard hat to sit lower on head and reduce pressure points); and an absorbent brow pad. These high-impact resistant, full brim hard hats address safety concerns by using 3M Scotchlite™ Reflective Material for enhanced visibility and an optional UVicator™ Sensor that indicates when the hard hat should be replaced because of UV exposure.

The adjustable, easy-to-use H-800 Series Full Brim Hard Hat meets the following standards:

• Hi-Viz H-800 Hard Hat colors meet ANSI Z89.1-2009 High-Visibility Performance requirements
• Non-vented H-800 Hard Hats meet ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2009 Type I Class C, G, and E requirements
• Vented H-800 Hard Hats meet ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2009 Type I, Class C requirements

3M Peltor Earmuffs X Series

3M's new Peltor X Series Earmuffs were created to protect the hearing of those working in high-noise environments. Featuring Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) of 21 dB to 31 dB, which is the highest NRR earmuff available on the market, the Peltor X Series was created to set new standards in hearing conservation and comfort.

The 3M Peltor Earmuffs utilize a combination of cutting-edge technologies including innovative designs for spacers, earcup liners, and cushion foam. These lightweight earmuffs also feature a dielectric wire headband (and twin headband design), a low-profile design, color coding, and soft, wide, easy-to-replace cushions. The 3M Peltor X Series Earmuffs are available in over-the-head and hard hat-attached models.

3M Static-Dissipative Heat-Activated Adhesive Cover Tape

3M's Static-Dissipative Heat-Activated Adhesive Cover Tape (Model 2679) provides protection for packaging electronic components in tape and reel. The 2679 Cover Tape was designed to seal such components into 3M polycarbonate carrier tapes for storage or transport.

The 3M 2679 Heat-Activated Cover Tape uses a heat application to seal with the carrier tape. The tape offers smoother peels (to reduce the risk of component migration and pick-and-place errors) and improved transparency for visual inspection (which also prevents picking mistakes), while protecting components from damage.

The 3M Model 2679 Static Dissipative Heat Activated Adhesive Cover Tape is RoHS compliant and available in 480-meter roll format with widths ranging from 5.2 mm to 49.4 mm.

To order any of these new 3M protective cover products please contact Q Source at 800-966-6020 or via email. We also offer almost 800 additional items in our 3M Department at QSource.com. Contact our helpful experts today for assistance with 3M solutions to meet your exact needs.