A Practical Learning Simulation Software with Specific Applications for Printed Circuit Board Soldering/De-soldering Ability Certifications

Abstract

This paper mainly develops a practical learning printed circuit board (PCB) soldering/de-soldering simulation software to be the reference of the specialized characteristic curriculum for a school. The proposed learning simulation software can train students with the soldering knowledge, the soldering technology, the electronic component identification, and the usage of the instruments. The research aims at inspiring students to be interested in circuitry soldering technology and have different thoughts on electronic/information/mechanical related technology applications. In this paper, the developed practical learning simulation software utilizes Visual Basic programming language as the developing tool and adopts the Bluetooth voice- activated tracking self-propelled vehicle and the number guessing game main control PCBs as the circuitry soldering training targets which was developed by Taiwan Embedded Microcontroller Development Institution (TEMI). The proposed simulation tool has been used as the learning exploration with the students at Kao Yuan University in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. According to the experimental results, the developed simulation tool could provide three contributions. First, it can be an interactive- and interesting-oriented learning tool. Second, it can cultivate and inspire students learning soldering technology efficiently and effectively to meet the needs in the industry. Third, it can cultivate more professional and technical students actively participate in seeking solutions to problems.