I'm putting together an equipment budget, and I don't like how much the JBC equipment costs, especially their tips. I've used JBC gear in the past, and it's fantastic, except for tip wetting and tip life, which didn't really impress me.
This is what I was considering:
JBC DMSE-1A (Quad station, T245-A soldering handle, DR560-A desoldering iron, stands and a pump)
JBC PA120-A Micro Tweezers
JBC PA-SD Tweezer Stand
Tips
Possibly I would eventually add a T210-A handle and stand.
Can anyone suggest alternatives that might be easier on the budget? I looked at Ersa, and it seemed like to get the same power and versatility, I would need to spend more (at least in the US.)
My use case is mostly rework down to 0402s & 0.5mm pitch. Very occasional 0201 installation, when I have to add passives across the leads of a fine pitch IC. Also rework of larger SMT components with no thermal relief on planes in power circuitry. I have a good hot air station already.
Thanks!