Using a MiniPhaser
As you become more skilled at soldering you may find that the number you have been setting you temperature control on no longer works the same.
Things that affect the temperature are:
1. voltage of your iron
2. speed at which you solder
3. size of area or seam you are soldering
4. cleanliness and overall condition of the tip.
So I am referring to #2. As you get faster, your iron will operate differently.
You temperature controller is similar to a dimmer switch. By dialing the control to a higher or lower setting, more or less electricity is fed to the iron. This increases or decreases the iron temperature.
The numbers on the dial are a reference scale to indicate higher or lower temperature settings.
To begin, adjust the dial to the "50" setting. Wait approximately 15 minutes. If the solder flows quickly into a smooth puddle, your iron is probably operating at the correct temperature. Adjust accordingly. As you become faster, you may have to set the temperature control to a higher number as you are releasing the heat faster.
For more info on "how to solder like a pro" go to the following address.
http://www.inlandcraft.com/howto/pdf/htsold.pdf