Title: Facilitator Help Page - Through-Hole Soldering Project -- (Do Not Publish)
Course: Electronics Assembly & Soldering (Sandbox) > Section: Module 3: Through-Hole Solder and Desolder Instructions

Did They Follow Directions?

Most issues occur when directions were not followed, or are read half-heartedly. Emphasize this.

Diagnose the Problem

If a project doesn't work:

1. Check quality of soldering. If there's not enough solder on lands, you can rewet the solder. If there's a solder bridge, use solder wick / desolder pump to remove it.

2. Check to see if all the components are in the right place. Make sure that components with polarity (LEDs, electrolytic capacitors, transistors, and speakers) are inserted correctly. For LEDs, the negative leg (cathode) is the short leg. The plastic case has a flat side, an LED is usually marked on the board as a circle with a flattened side, and the cathode goes in the flat side. See below:

https://outlets.eoutlet2021.com/content?c=smd%20led%20polarity&id=39

3. Go to Module 6: Troubleshooting and watch the video on how to use a DMM to help diagnose the problem.

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