TS100 digital programmable soldering iron has been popular in recent years due to its compact size, open source STM32 firmware, fast heating, and it does the job. Another advantage is that the soldering can be powered by a standard 19V laptop power supply.
The company behind TS100 has been working on a new model called TS80 powered via USB type C port, lighter & more compact, and supporting soldering tips that connect through a typical 3.5mm audio jack. The good news is that TS80 is now available for $89.99 on Sainsmart under the ToolPAC brand. Use FSTS80 coupon for free express shipping.
TS80 SUB type-C soldering iron specifications:
- MCU – STMicro STM32F103T8 Arm Cortex-M3 MCU @ 72 MHz with 20KB SRAM, 64KB or 128KB flash
- Temperature Range – 100℃ – 400℃ (Max) ±3%
- Display – OLED display
- Data/Power Interface: USB Type-C
- Power Input – 9V/2A (QC 3.0)
- Dimensions – Controller: 95.5mm; tip: 60+40mm
- Weight – 36.5g
- Certifications – CE, FCC
The kit includes a soldering iron controller, and a TS-B02 soldering iron tip as pictured below, as well as a user manual in English.
TS80 and “Audio Jack” Soldering Tip
You’ll also need a power supply, preferably one compatible with Quick Charge 3.0 (9V/2A) or a QC 3.0 power bank, in order to power the soldering iron through its USB-C receptacle.
The STM32 MCU helps to regulate “sleep”, “standby”, and “operating” modes, updates the OLED screen, and just like for TS100, the firmware will be open source. I could not find it yet, but it may eventually be posted on minidso forum, or directly on the manufacturer website (miniware aka “Guangzhou e-Design Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd”).
Editor’s note: A version of this article was originally published August by CNXSOFT on CNX-SOFTWARE.
