On Wed, 10 Nov 2010 09:40:53 +0000 (GMT), "Dave Plowman (News)"
wrote:

Most decent electronics irons these days are low voltage (24 volt) 50 watt
thermostatically controlled. 50 watts will cope with most things you're
likely to find round electronics like even large terminals. But without
thermostatic control would get too hot.

Thanks. You've answered my next question which was going to be about
thermostatic control. I see a lot of irons do not have it but your
reply suggests that there is a real advantage to having it.

The 'standard' small Antex non thermostatic mains is 15 watts.

Could be. I am sure it ends in a 5. I did look but I've forgotten
again! I'm pretty sure it does not have thermostatic control. It was
bought cheaply from maplin in the days when maplin was good and the
catalogue was like a data sheet compendium.

An 'instant heat' induction 150 watt type can be worth having for the odd larger job - although I prefer a
small jeweller's blowlamp for this mostly these days.

Instant heat, no waiting, that sounds good. The blowlamp sounds as
though you could destroy things if you weren't careful/don't know what
you are doing.

TIA