Velleman VTSSC40N Soldering Station

Introduction & Description

This document provides the user manual for the Velleman VTSSC40N Soldering Station.

To all residents of the European Union

Important environmental information about this product

The symbol ♻️ on the device or package indicates that disposal of the device after its lifecycle could harm the environment. Do not dispose of the unit (or batteries) as unsorted municipal waste; it should be taken to a specialized company for recycling. Return the device to your distributor or a local recycling service. Respect local environmental rules. If in doubt, contact your local waste disposal authorities.

Thank you for choosing Velleman! Please read the manual thoroughly before using this device. If the device was damaged in transit, do not install or use it and contact your dealer.

This soldering station features temperature control (150°C to 450°C) and a digital temperature display showing both the set and actual temperatures simultaneously.

The VTSSC40N is a 48W soldering station with a temperature sensor in the ceramic heating element. The heating element is powered by a safe 24V transformer, and the bit is completely isolated from the mains. In case of malfunction, a warning will be displayed on the LCD and the device will emit a sound.

⚠️ This device can be used by children aged 8 years and above, and persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge, provided they are supervised or instructed on safe use and understand the involved hazards. Children must not play with the device. Cleaning and user maintenance must not be done by children without supervision.

⚠️ If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid any hazard.

Product Components:

• Standard bit: BITC10N1
• Replacement soldering iron / Spare bit: VTSSC40N/SP, BITC10N2, BITC10N3, BITC10N4
• Power supply: 220-240 V~, 50 Hz
• Dimensions: 185 x 100 x 170mm
• Weight: 1.58kg
• Environmental conditions: +5°C to +40°C; RH <85%

Key Features Illustrated:

The soldering station unit includes:

• 1: LCD temperature read-out (display precision: 5%)
• 2: Temperature control buttons
• 3: Iron stand
• 4: Sponge tray
• 5: Soldering iron connection
• 6: ON/OFF switch
• 7: Soldering iron

At the rear: Fuse holder (250V/1A 5x20mm: FF1N).

Safety Instructions

This device can be used by children aged 8 years and above, and persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge, provided they are supervised or instructed on safe use and understand the involved hazards. Children must not play with the device. Cleaning and user maintenance must not be done by children without supervision.

Read and understand this manual and all safety signs before using this appliance.

• ? Indoor use only. Keep the device away from rain, moisture, splashing, and dripping liquids. Never place objects filled with liquids on or near the device.
• Always disconnect mains power when the device is not in use or when servicing or maintenance activities are performed. Handle the power cord by the plug only.
• ⚠️ Caution! After switching off, leave the power cord plugged in for a few minutes. The automatic cooling function blows cooling air through the heater pipe for a short period to protect the heater and extend its lifetime. Do not disconnect the mains plug during this cooling process.
• Do not crimp or damage the power cord.
• ⚠️ Warning! If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid any hazard.
• Ensure the available voltage does not exceed the voltage stated in the specifications.
• Plug the power cord into a suitable, earthed mains outlet.
• ⚡ Risk of electroshock when opening the cover. Touching live wires can cause life-threatening electroshocks. Do not disassemble or open the housing yourself. Have the device repaired by qualified personnel.
• Do not operate the device with wet hands.
• Never use the device on live electronic circuits. Ensure power to the work piece is cut and capacitors are discharged.
• Do not use near flammable products or in explosive atmospheres. Heat can cause fire to flammable products even when not in sight. Only use in properly ventilated rooms.
• ? Incorrect use may cause fire.
• Do not touch the shafts, tips, or hot air gun as this can cause serious burns. Keep tips and hot air away from the body, clothes, or other flammable material. Do not aim the hot air gun at the eyes. Use gloves and/or heat-resistant tools to pick up the PCB assembly to prevent burns. Always return irons and gun to their stands between uses; let the device cool down after use and before storage.
• Place the device on a level, stable, and fire-resistant working surface.
• ⚠️ WARNING! - Place the tool on its stand when not in use; do not leave the tool unattended when switched on.
• ☠️ Do not inhale solder fumes. Vapours released during soldering are harmful. Use the soldering station only in well-ventilated areas or under an exhaust hood (solder fume extractor). Dispose of fume filters and solder residue according to local regulations.
• Use the soldering iron on a heatproof workbench.
• Place the soldering iron in its holder after use.
• Let a hot soldering iron cool down naturally and do not immerse in water.

Operating Instructions

1. Verify mains voltage compatibility before connecting.
2. Ensure the device was not damaged during transit.
3. Connect the soldering iron via the 4-pin plug and screw its nut tightly.
4. Switch the device on using the ON/OFF switch and set the desired temperature using the pushbuttons. A short press changes temperature by 1°C; holding the button down allows faster adjustment (steps of 10°C).

The set temperature is stored internally. The next time you use your VTSSC40N, it will automatically display the last set temperature.

Tips for New Tips

1. Switch the device on and set a temperature of 250°C.
2. Coat the tip surface with solder when the tip temperature reaches 250°C.
3. Allow the unit to idle at 250°C for 3 minutes, then set the desired temperature. The soldering station is ready for use once the set temperature is reached.

Common Causes for Tip Failure

• The tip is not sufficiently tinned.
• Wiping the tip on a dirty or dry sponge, rag, or a surface with high sulphur content.
• Contact between the tip and organic or chemical substances like plastic, silicone, grease, etc.
• Impurities in the solder and/or solder with a low tin content.

Important Remarks

• Remove and clean the tip after heavy or moderate use. For daily use, clean the tip daily. Remove excess solder. Never clean the tip with a file or other abrasive materials.
• Always tin the tip before returning it to the holder, before deactivating the station, or for long periods of inactivity. Clean the tip with a wet sponge or our tip cleaner (ref. VTSTC) before use.
• Avoid using temperatures > 400°C for extended periods, as this will shorten the tip's lifespan.
• Do not heat the soldering iron without a tip, as this can damage the heating component and temperature sensor.
• Do not press too hard on the tip while soldering, as this does not improve heat transfer and may damage the tip.
• Replace a blown fuse only when the device is powered down and disconnected from the mains.

Use this device only with original accessories. Velleman nv is not liable for damage or injury resulting from (incorrect) use of this device. For more information and the latest manual version, visit www.velleman.eu. Information is subject to change without prior notice.

Copyright Notice

The copyright to this manual is owned by Velleman nv. All worldwide rights reserved. No part of this manual may be copied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or otherwise without prior written consent from the copyright holder.