Okay, that's really the last time I try to solder chips ...

[midwayfair]

I do recommend looking into a desoldering gun for the amount of builds you do.

I've thought about it a lot*, but in this situation, I feel like it's a bandaid.

Rolly, you're right; the workshop does not have three-prong outlets. I guess I've got multiple reasons to upgrade them now.

*I would be mortified to tell you guys what I use for really drastic desoldering.

[gjcamann]

If you get your chips from Tayda, then you better socket! 

[culturejam]

I second the desoldering gun suggestion. Mine has changed my life. 

http://www.hakko.com/english/products/hakko_808.html


Regardless of your IC woes, a dedicated (quality) desoldering gun will make thing so much easier when prototyping. I don't even socket most passives anymore because I can pull one out in about 5 seconds. I can take out an IC in maybe 15 seconds, and it's clean and totally usable again.

[alanp]

If you get your chips from Tayda, then you better socket! 

Only time  I've had Tayda chip troubles are when I put the damn thing in backwards