SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-cold-solder-joint

What is the characteristic appearance of a cold tin-lead solder joint?

A rough or lumpy surface.

  1. A rough or lumpy surface ✔
  2. A bright or shiny surface
  3. Dark black spots

Why: A cold joint forms when the solder does not get hot enough to flow properly. It looks dull, rough or lumpy and may not conduct well.

Huh, didn't know that: A good solder joint looks smooth and shiny, not dull and lumpy.

The dad joke
Why was the solder joint so unfriendly? It was a little cold.
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Sources

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool (Feb 19, 2026 release) https://www.ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf

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