Removing stuck solder from a computer component...

[joko]

my friend tried to replace the power socket on my llaptop, but he couldnt because the solder just wouldnt melt...! he said it looked like it had someting over it...

any ideas why? what is the coating and how can we get it off...?

thanks

without taking it to a repair shop...

[Hymie]

It’s probably the flux residue from the original soldering of the power socket.

It sounds like your friend has a low power soldering iron and/or one fitted with a small tip.

Before applying the soldering iron to the solder joint, the tip should be tinned with a small amount of solder to aid heat transfer.

If that does not work, then he needs a more powerful soldering iron – a 15 Watt iron fitted with a small tip may not be up to the job.