MEC 134 - Soldering and Making with Machine Tools

Credits: 3
3 Skills Lab Hours

Description
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of soldering and the safe operation of common machine tools used in makerspaces and manufacturing environments. Students develop hands-on skills in electronics assembly, including through-hole and surface-mount soldering. Students also learn to safely operate machine shop equipment such as drill presses, lathes and mills. Emphasis is placed on precision, safety and integration of mechanical and electronic components to support prototyping and small-scale manufacturing. By the end of the course, students are able to fabricate and assemble projects that combine electronics with machined parts.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

Demonstrate proper soldering techniques for through-hole and surface-mount electronic components.
Inspect solder joints for quality, reliability and safety.
Operate basic machine tools (drill press, lathe, mill, band saw, grinder) according to standard safety procedures.
Interpret engineering drawings to select appropriate tools and processes for machining operations.
Apply measurement and gauging techniques to ensure precision in fabricated parts.
Assemble projects that integrate soldered circuits with machined mechanical components.
Describe materials and their properties relevant to machining and soldering applications.
Apply safe practices for handling heat, flux, sharp tools and rotating machinery.
Collaborate on team-based fabrication projects requiring division of tasks and integrated assemblies.
Document the fabrication process and project outcomes through written, visual and digital records.

Listed Topics

Makerspace and machine shop safety review
Soldering fundamentals: tools, materials and techniques
Through-hole soldering and desoldering methods
Surface-mount soldering with hand tools and hot air
Inspection of solder joints and quality standards (IPC basics)
Introduction to machine tools: drill press, lathe, mill, band saw, grinder
Tool selection and setup for machining operations
Material properties and machining considerations (metals, plastics, composites)
Measurement and gauging (calipers, micrometers, dial indicators)
Project planning and workflow in fabrication
Assembly of electronic and mechanical components
Documentation and presentation of projects

Reference Materials
Instructor-approved textbook and materials

Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Quantitative & Scientific Reasoning

Approved By: Dr. Quintin B. Bullock Date Approved: 03/09/2026

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