Advantages and disadvantages of using STM32 chips and STC chips on T12 soldering stations
STM32 Controller
Pros:
Control and stability of temperature:
STM32 micro stepper motors consist of a PWM (Proportional Integral Derivative) controller that corrects real-time temperature fluctuations by more accurate PID controller. This minimizes temperature changes and guarantees improved performance at high power and precision.
Some general information about hardware design and reliability:
ST Mcu pads STM32 pads use typically higher quality hardware components + designs are tighter. The stable output makes the supply of power and circuit works much more steady, which greatly decrease failure rate and prolongs service life.
User Interface And User Experience:
STM32 controllers usually have a higher level of user interface that include OLED and graphical interfaces compared to the user interface used for STM8 controllers.
Compatibility and scalability:
Since STM32 microcontrollers are widely adopted and have a strong ecosystem, such soldering stations provide better compatibility and scalability. Soldering station is modular and can be easily customised and scaled to specific needs.
User reviews and market feedback:
As a result, STM32 soldering stations have better reviews and higher rating in the market. Its temperature control, stability and reliability have been well received by users.
Disadvantages
Cost:
STM32 has higher quality components and advanced features which always tend to be more expensive as compared to Arduino.
STC Controllers
Pros: low cost
Cost:
They are inexpensive, which is why they are affordable for those who do not require high performance and functionality.
Cons: Higher cost:
Controlling and maintaining temperature:
Although STC microcontrollers can control temperature, they are inferior in accuracy and stability compared to the STM32. they are more sensitive to extreme temperature changes, particularly in high-power and high-precision applications.
Hardware design and dependability.Loading
STC pads use lower/less quality components (to cut costs as the engineers that designed these things intended them to be) and can also lead to failures in the long run.
User interface and user experience:
STC controllers usually have a more straightforward user interface without advanced functions and very intuitive operation.
Scalability and Compatibility:
In contrast to STC pads that lack compatibility and expandability, making it difficult for users to customise and expand the pad with their requirements.
Really, new public feedback and more appropriate feedback?
It is important to note that STC soldering stations have both a low rating and a bad image on the market, albeit mainly in terms of temperature control and stability.
Conclusion
STM32 Controller: Better temperature control, stability, hardware quality, user interface and compatibility. However, the cost is higher.
STC Controller: Cheaper but with worse temperature control accuracy, worse quality of hardware and user interface, and compatibility.
The selection of STM32 or STC controls depends on the user's budget, performance, and functionality requirements.
KSGER and QUICKO have STM32 controllers for T12 pads, and they are similar yet different:
Similarities
Match: Both controllers are compatible with T12, C245, and C210 weld handles.
Power: Even though both of these controllers are for T12 pads, they both use a same 24V power supply.
Temperature Control: Both controllers use PID algorithms around temperature control.
Both controllers have an OLED display and a rotary encoder that allow the user to easily configure the parameters to change the temperature and select the modes.
Differences
Handle Design: The 907 handle from QUICKO has a locking screw, so you cannot change tips quickly like you can on the KSGER handle. QUICKO does have other in-line handles like the P9 and M8 handles which also allow for quick tip changes!
Firmware suitability: Both controllers won't work with David's firmware because they are STC based designs.
Manufacturing: The wires used in grips vary in quality, KSGER has silicone, which is much better than PVC insulation (which is not very flexible) in the much cheaper version of QUICKO 907, they also offer silicone insulated P9 and M8 grips at a much lower price!
Conclusion
Core Features KSGER and QUICKO both provide reliable STM32 controllers for the T12 soldering station, with comparable primary features: compatibility, power supply, temperature control and user interface. On the other hand, the KSGER handle is obviously more user-friendly, comes with more accessories, while the QUICKO must be less practical for frequent tip changes. The P9 or M8 handles can be tried if the tip keeps changing frequently, both handles are still up to personal preference.
