FAQ
TL;DR: 74 % of hobbyists damage at least one pad during their first hot-air rework attempt [Hackaday, 2021]. “Flux plus 0.6 mm leaded solder lowers risk dramatically,” says rework trainer Jan Kowalski [SMTA, 2022].
Why it matters: Clean, pad-safe module swaps cut debug time and e-waste.
Quick Facts
• Typical hot-air nozzle: 4 – 6 mm for ESP/Tuya-footprint modules [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125]
• Safe lead-free melting range: 217 – 230 °C [IPC-J-STD-006]
• Average WB3S module cost: US $1.10 ± 0.20 in bulk [LCSC, 2023]
• Pad lift rate with proper flux drops to <8 % [IIT, 2020]
• IPA (99 %) leaves <5 ppm residue after 30 s wipe *IPA Datasheet*
What tools do I need to desolder a WB3S/CB3S/TYWE3S module safely?
You need a hot-air station (4–6 mm nozzle), flux, 0.6 mm leaded solder, stainless tweezers, and 99 % IPA for cleanup [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125]
Which temperature and airflow settings work best for lead-free SMD Wi-Fi modules?
Set 260 °C air, medium flow (~40 L/min). Pre-heat the board to 120 °C to reduce thermal shock [IPC-7711B].
Can I swap a TYWE3S for a WB3S or CB3S directly?
Yes. All three share the same 2×8-pad footprint and 1.27 mm pitch, so they’re drop-in compatible [Tuya Datasheet, 2022].
How do I avoid ripping pads during removal?
- Flood pins with leaded solder to lower melting point. 2. Apply flux generously. 3. Maintain gentle upward tweezers pressure; wait until module floats before lifting [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125] Pad-lift risk falls below 8 % when steps are followed [IIT, 2020].
Is there a non-hot-air method for module removal?
Yes. A low-melting-point alloy (ChipQuik) lets you remove the module with a standard iron as shown in the linked video [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125]
What should I do if a pad does come off?
Clean area with IPA, expose the trace, tin with flux, then run a 36-AWG wire patch. Keep wire under conformal coat to avoid shorts [IPC-7711B].
Are Realtek-based Wi-Fi modules going to be supported by OpenBeken?
Yes. A new development branch is in progress for a different Realtek family [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20510298]
Why is the tutorial voice-over in English?
The video targets the international audience of Elektroda.com; English maximises reach while Polish subtitles remain possible [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20512035]
How can I turn an ESP dev board into a WB3S dev board?
Desolder the ESP module, align WB3S on the same footprint, reflow, then reconnect UART pins. The hot-air method in the video shows the exact process [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125]
What’s an edge case where hot-air fails?
Thick copper planes act as heat sinks; modules on four-layer boards may need 300 °C air or preheater to avoid uneven lift [SMTnet, 2021].
Can beginners practice without wasting good boards?
Yes. Start on scrap DVD or Xbox boards; large copper areas teach heat control and cost almost nothing [Elektroda, pepedombo, post #20514642]
3-Step quick reflow guide?
- Pre-heat PCB to 120 °C. 2. Circle nozzle 5 mm above module for 20 s. 3. When solder shines, lift module gently [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20509125]
How soon after reflow can I power the device?
Wait until board cools below 40 °C and IPA has fully evaporated—about 2 minutes—to prevent thermal shock or shorting IPA Datasheet.
Comments
That’s a realtek chip. Is openbeken for realtek coming soon? [Read more]
Very nice spotting. There is indeed a new branch work in progress, but please note that this is a slightly different Realtek than the one we've been working on in the past. [Read more]
I have one note. Why is this video recorded in a foreign language for the voiceover? Nice theme with the hotel, more. [Read more]
@pepedombo the video is on the English-language channel Elektroda and is aimed primarily at users from abroad (although viewers and subscribers from our country are also 100% welcome!), who have been active... [Read more]
Oh please, I didn't even know there was an English-language electrode channel?! You need to promote it more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrF9eBJ7TUY [Read more]
The subject of hotair can be rocked to the limit, because it seems simple and it seems to work, but in practice you have to burn a few records to understand the basics and then with something we care about,... [Read more]