The cynic in me thinks the real reason is the 'smarts' in the tip will make it incompatible with Thermaltronics tips. DRM for soldering irons? 
If so, it wouldn't be the first time Metcal tried to discourage use of Thermaltronics cartridges. A few years ago the Metcal MX-500 firmware was updated to check if a Thermaltronics M series cart was installed in the handle. Apparently Thermaltronics carts heat up a few seconds faster than Metcal carts. If the Thermaltronics tip was detected the power unit would display an error message and shutdown. Thermaltronics described this issue and a workaround in their June 2014 newsletter.
Would I assume you mean
MX-5000, not MX-500? I have an MX-500 and there is no firmware to update.
The cynic in me thinks the real reason is the 'smarts' in the tip will make it incompatible with Thermaltronics tips. DRM for soldering irons?
If so, it wouldn't be the first time Metcal tried to discourage use of Thermaltronics cartridges. A few years ago the Metcal MX-500 firmware was updated to check if a Thermaltronics M series cart was installed in the handle. Apparently Thermaltronics carts heat up a few seconds faster than Metcal carts. If the Thermaltronics tip was detected the power unit would display an error message and shutdown. Thermaltronics described this issue and a workaround in their June 2014 newsletter.
Would I assume you mean MX-5000, not MX-500? I have an MX-500 and there is no firmware to update.
They stupidly messed with the model numbers and now an MX-500 is a lower powered MX-5000
http://uk.farnell.com/metcal/mx-500av/soldering-rework-system-40w-240vac/dp/2433356?st=mx-500
Just googled the model... It's going for ~800USD. No-no for even the hardcore hobbyists
Ummm... duh?
It’s a feature specifically for improving quality/consistency in production soldering...
That's rather steep, even for Metcal.
They are going for $450 now. I am thinking about getting some to replace my metcal SP1s. Has anybody had long term experience with this? We had varied results in demonstration today trying to solder brass components in less than 8 seconds (IPC standard). We are waiting to demo it further before making a judgment. I think it may come in handy in certain applications.
Hi! Does anyone know if MX series handpieces (e.g. MX-PTZ tweezers) would work with CV power supply?
Is MX stand compatible with CV series iron at least?
They look identical...
Is MX stand compatible with CV series iron at least? They look identical...
Yeah read that thread, just use the CV iron RF and don't plug in the other connector.
On some really old Metcal stations RF connector won't fit due to pin diameter, but you can get a male to female adapter for a few dollars that should fix it.
I think JBC also has this on offer now, or at least seems similar.
Is MX stand compatible with CV series iron at least? They look identical...
Answering my own question: yes, MX stands are the only option. Metcal CV5210 kit is supplied with MX-W1AV stand
hi guys,
it would be nice to get the old tips working the new CV system. have any thoughts
