Flux Blog

Flux.ai is a complex, single-page web app that helps electronic engineers design printed circuit boards. As with any professional design tool, it needs to be fast, precise and predictable.

Early versions of Flux.ai were noticeably slow. We set a goal of making all our user interactions take less than 100ms, supported by science. We started a plethora of projects to make that happen, one of which I wrote about in another blog post. To make sure these efforts paid off, we created a measurement tool, log-time-to-next-idle, that is the subject of this blog post.

We've been using it to track the performance of around 50 key user interactions over 18 months, such as:

• Selecting a component
• Start dragging a component
• End dragging a component
• Adding a trace
• Switching camera modes

We're very happy with how it is working. And now we've shared it with the world as an open-source package.

What is a user interaction?

A user interaction is defined here as any input the user provides—mouse click, key press, and so on—coupled with the intended effects of the input—menu opened, element added, and so on. The performance of a user interaction is simply the time between the start of the input to the end of the effects. For example, clicking on a select box will open a menu. The interaction is done when the menu has finished loading.

A subset of the interaction time is defined as “frozen time”. This is the interval following the user input when there are zero screen updates––no animation frames.

How is a user interaction measured?

Although the concept of a user interaction is easy to define intuitively, the end state can be hard to define formally. In modern reactive UIs, any part of the UI can freely change in response to an update of a store of application state (Redux, Zustand, and so forth). The initial handler of some user input doesn't know all the downstream effects of its execution and so it can't mark the end of the interaction.

In the diagram above, it is hard to know which among the N components will determine the "end" of the interaction. You may not even know what are all the N components that react to some user inptu. To deal with this problem, we took a shortcut. Assuming that...

1. The CPU is idle when there is no user input
2. All effects of a user input happen immediately after the input with the highest priority
3. All effects require CPU time
4. The interaction is done when the CPU returns to idle

...we can leverage requestIdleCallback to mark when an interaction is done.

Similarly, we can leverage requestAnimationFrame to indicate when an interaction has yielded control back to the main thread, unfreezing the UI.

In short, log-time-to-next-idle measures user interactions by queuing a requestAnimationFrame and a requestIdleCallback at the start of an interaction, then recording the time when the callbacks fire.

Code sample

Just put a call to logTimeToNextIdle at the start of any event handler. Here is an example of logging the time it takes to switch fictional tabs in a React app.

const logTimeToNextIdle = require('log-time-to-next-idle')

// ...

// Inside the Tabs
  onChange={(_event, tabName) => {
    // This is where the magic happens
    logTimeToNextIdle(`switching-to-tab-${tabName}`);
    handleChange(tabName);
    // There is no need to mark the end of the interaction
    // You will see a message in the console like
    // "switching-to-tab-library took 27ms until unfrozen, 117ms until idle"
  }}
  
  Tab label="Library"
  Tab label="Objects"

Note on concurrency

log-time-to-next-idle deals with overlapping interactions by cancelling earlier queued callbacks. In other words, the last interaction "wins" and any previous in-progress interaction is ignored. For ease of interpretation, you should try to measure debounced interactions that happen one at a time.

Profiler integration

log-time-to-next-idle will store measured intervals in the browser using window.performance.measure (if available). The intervals will then show up in the profiler (if available).

Custom Logging

Here is an example that logs to the console when in dev build mode, and logs to somewhere in the cloud when in prod build.

// Inside the Tabs
  onChange={(_event, tabName) => {
    logTimeToNextIdle(`switching-to-tab-${tabName}`, (name, data) =>
      if (process.env.NODE_ENV === "development") {
        console.log(`${name} took ${data.durationInMs}ms`)
      } else {
        logSomewhere(name, {
          durationInMs: data.durationInMs,
        })
      }
    );
    handleChange(tabName);
  }}

  Tab label="Library"
  Tab label="Objects"

Conclusion

We hope this measurment function log-time-to-next-idle will be useful to you and your app, as well as the general approach of defining interaction end points in terms of CPU usage. Check out the open-source package and please post any feedback there.

Solder Flux Guide: How to Use Flux when Soldering

Soldering is a crucial process in the assembly of electronic circuits, and the use of soldering flux is an integral part of this process. It is important to understand how to use flux when soldering electronics to ensure strong and reliable soldered joints. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to using solder flux in electronics soldering, and help you optimize your soldering techniques.

Why is flux used when soldering electronics? 

Soldering flux is used to clean and prepare the surfaces of the components that need to be joined. It helps to remove oxidation and other contaminants that can prevent a strong bond from forming. Flux also reduces surface tension, allowing the solder to flow more easily and improves the wetting of the components. This results in a stronger and more reliable soldered joint. The use of solder flux is essential to ensuring the longevity and reliability of electronic circuits.

What types of flux are used for soldering?

When soldering electronics, it is important to choose the appropriate type of flux for your project. There are several types of solder flux available, including:

1. Rosin-Based Flux: Rosin-based flux is the most common type of solder flux used in electronics. It is a natural product made from the resin of pine trees and is easy to use and clean up. Rosin-based flux is suitable for most soldering projects and is commonly used in through-hole components.
2. Water-Soluble Flux: Water-soluble flux is a type of flux that is designed to be cleaned up using water. It is commonly used in surface-mount technology (SMT) and is ideal for projects where a clean finish is important.
3. No-Clean Flux: No-clean flux is a type of flux that does not require cleaning after the soldering process. It is often used in projects where a clean finish is not critical, such as in automotive or industrial applications.
4. Acid-Core Flux: Acid-core flux is a type of flux that contains strong acids and is used in projects where heavy oxidation is present. It is commonly used in plumbing applications, but should not be used in electronic soldering as the residue can cause damage to the components over time.

When choosing a type of flux for your soldering project, consider the type of components being soldered and the specific requirements of your project.

How do you use flux when soldering?

1. Choose the appropriate type of flux for your project: There are several types of solder flux available, including rosin-based, water-soluble, no-clean, and acid-based. Choose the type that best fits the components being soldered and the specific requirements of your project.
2. Clean and prepare the surfaces to be soldered: Remove any contaminants and oxidation from the surfaces that will be joined using a flux cleaner. This will ensure that the solder adheres properly to the components and forms a strong bond.
3. Apply the flux: Using a brush, apply the flux to the areas that need to be soldered. Be careful to only apply the flux where it is needed, as excess flux can cause problems during the soldering process.
4. Heat the components: Using a soldering iron, heat the components until the solder starts to flow and wet the components. This is known as "tinning."
5. Solder the components: Once the components are heated, apply the solder to the joint. The solder should flow and wet the components, forming a strong and reliable bond.
6. Remove the heat source: Once the components are fully coated with the solder, remove the heat source and allow the joint to cool.
7. Clean any residue: If using a rosin-based flux, clean any residue left after the soldering process. This will help to avoid any corrosive residue that can damage the components over time.
8. Inspect the joint: Once the joint has cooled, inspect it to ensure that the bond is strong and reliable. If necessary, re-heat and reapply the solder to correct any issues.

It is important to follow these steps carefully to ensure that the solder flux is used correctly and the soldered joints are strong and reliable. With practice, you will be able to optimize your use of solder flux and achieve the best results in your soldering projects.

Is it always necessary to use soldering flux?

Solder flux is necessary in most soldering applications in electronics. The main purpose of solder flux is to clean the metal surfaces being soldered, removing any oxidation, dirt, or other contaminants that can prevent the solder from adhering properly. By removing these contaminants, the flux allows the melted solder to make a strong and permanent bond with the metal surfaces.

In addition to cleaning the metal surfaces, solder flux can also improve the flow of the melted solder and reduce the formation of oxides during the soldering process. This helps to ensure a strong and reliable connection between the metal surfaces.

Overall, solder flux is an important component of the soldering process in electronics, and it is typically necessary in most soldering applications. However, in some cases, the use of flux may not be necessary, such as when soldering certain types of metals that are not prone to oxidation. In such cases, a specialized type of solder that contains its own flux may be used. It is important to consult with a professional or refer to the specific requirements of your project to determine whether or not the use of solder flux is necessary.

What is soldering flux made of?

Flux for soldering is typically made of a chemical compound that is specifically formulated for use in the soldering process. There are various types of flux, and the specific ingredients used in each type of flux can vary.

Some common ingredients used in soldering flux include:

1. Rosin: Rosin-based flux is the most common type of flux used in electronics. It is made from the resin of pine trees and is a natural product that is easy to use and clean up.
2. Acids: Acid-based flux is a type of flux that contains strong acids, such as hydrochloric acid, and is used in projects where heavy oxidation is present. It should not be used in electronic soldering as the residue can cause damage to the components over time.
3. Activators: Activators, such as halides, are added to some flux formulas to enhance their cleaning and soldering properties.
4. Solvents: Solvents, such as alcohols, are used in some types of flux to improve their application and cleanup characteristics.

In general, the ingredients used in solder flux are carefully selected and formulated to provide the necessary cleaning and soldering properties for the specific application. It is important to use the correct type of flux for your project to ensure a strong and permanent bond between the metal surfaces.

What is the difference between flux and solder?

Solder is a metal alloy that is melted and used to join two metal surfaces together. The metal used in solder is typically tin, lead, or a combination of both, and it must have a lower melting point than the metal surfaces being joined. The melted solder forms a strong bond between the metal surfaces, creating a permanent electrical and mechanical connection.

Flux, on the other hand, is a chemical compound that is used to clean the metal surfaces before soldering. Flux is applied to the metal surfaces to remove any oxidation, dirt, or other contaminants that can prevent the solder from adhering properly. By removing these contaminants, the flux allows the melted solder to make a strong and permanent bond with the metal surfaces.

How do you use flux with solder wire?

Using a solder wire to join two metal surfaces together is a common task in electronics. Here are the steps for using a solder wire:

1. Gather tools and materials: You will need a soldering iron, a solder wire, a flux-coated sponge or flux paste, and a pair of pliers or tweezers to hold the components being soldered.
2. Prepare the soldering iron: Turn on the soldering iron and allow it to reach its operating temperature. Clean the tip of the soldering iron using a damp sponge or flux-coated sponge to remove any oxidation or residue.
3. Apply flux: If you are using a flux paste, apply a small amount to the metal surfaces being joined. If you are using a flux-coated sponge, briefly touch the tip of the soldering iron to the sponge to transfer a small amount of flux to the metal surfaces. The purpose of the flux is to clean the metal surfaces and improve the flow of the solder.
4. Position the components: Use pliers or tweezers to position the components being soldered in the desired location.
5. Touch the soldering iron to the metal: Touch the tip of the soldering iron to the metal where the solder wire will be applied. This will heat up the metal and activate the flux.
6. Apply the solder wire: Touch the end of the solder wire to the heated metal, near the tip of the soldering iron. The heat from the soldering iron will melt the solder wire, allowing it to flow and form a bond with the metal surfaces.
7. Remove the soldering iron: Once the solder has flowed and formed a bond with the metal surfaces, remove the soldering iron. Do not disturb the joint while it cools, as this can cause the bond to be weakened.
8. Clean the joint: Once the joint has cooled, inspect it for any signs of defects or cold solder joints. If necessary, clean the joint using a damp sponge or alcohol-soaked cloth to remove any flux residue.

By following these steps, you can effectively use a solder wire to join two metal surfaces together in electronics.

Is Flux bad for electronics?

In some cases, the flux residue left on the circuit board can interfere with the functioning of the circuit, causing issues such as corrosion or poor electrical connections. It is therefore important to remove the flux residue after desoldering to ensure the continued proper functioning of the circuit.

There are specialized desoldering braid and desoldering pumps that can be used to remove the melted solder and the flux residue during the desoldering process. These tools are designed to effectively remove the solder and flux residue, leaving the circuit board clean and ready for rework.

Flux is not inherently harmful to electronics, but it can cause damage if not used properly. Improper use of flux can result in the formation of corrosive residue that can damage the components over time. Additionally, certain types of flux, such as acid-based flux, can be harmful to the environment, and it is important to use them in a safe and responsible manner.

What are some of the dangers of using Flux?

There are several potential dangers associated with the use of flux, including:

1. Toxicity: Some types of flux, particularly those containing lead or other hazardous materials, can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. This can pose a risk to the engineer and other personnel working with the components.
2. Fire hazard: Flux can be flammable, and if it comes into contact with a heat source, it can ignite and cause a fire. This can pose a serious risk to equipment, facilities, and personnel.
3. Corrosion: Some types of flux can cause corrosion to electronic components, especially if the flux residue is not cleaned off properly. This can reduce the lifespan of the components and potentially cause electrical malfunctions.
4. Environmental impact: Some types of flux can be harmful to the environment and should not be disposed of improperly. It is important to follow local regulations and guidelines when disposing of used flux.
5. Interference with electronics: Improper use of flux can result in residue that interferes with the normal functioning of electronic components, which can cause problems in the overall circuit.

Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of using flux in electrical engineering and to take appropriate measures to minimize these risks. This can include using flux in the correct amount, selecting the appropriate type of flux for the application, and properly cleaning and disposing of used flux.

Fluxless Techniques

Fluxless techniques are a type of soldering method that do not require the use of traditional solder flux. In electrical engineering, these techniques can provide a number of benefits, including:

1. Improved reliability: Fluxless soldering methods can provide stronger and more reliable soldered joints compared to traditional methods that use flux.
2. Increased environmental safety: Fluxless methods eliminate the need for traditional flux, which can be harmful to the environment and to personnel working with the components.
3. Improved circuit performance: Fluxless soldering methods can help to prevent any residue from affecting the normal functioning of electronic components, which can result in improved circuit performance.
4. Reduced cost: Fluxless methods can reduce the cost of soldering, as there is no need to purchase and dispose of traditional flux.

There are several fluxless soldering techniques that are commonly used in electrical engineering, including:

1. Solder-coated wire: This method involves using a wire that has been coated with solder, eliminating the need for traditional flux.
2. Ultrasonic soldering: This method uses high frequency sound waves to create enough heat to melt the solder, eliminating the need for flux.
3. Induction soldering: This method uses an electromagnetic field to generate heat, melting the solder and eliminating the need for flux.
4. Wave soldering: This method involves passing the electronic components over a wave of solder, eliminating the need for flux.

Fluxless techniques can provide several benefits to electrical engineers, including improved reliability, increased safety, improved circuit performance, and reduced cost. It is important to carefully evaluate the different methods available and select the one that is best suited to your specific needs and application.

Can I use pipe Flux on electronics?

Pipe flux is not recommended for use in electronics, as it is designed for use in plumbing applications. The flux used in plumbing is often acidic, which can cause damage to delicate electronic components. Instead, it is recommended to use a rosin-based or water-soluble solder flux that is specifically designed for use in electronics.

In conclusion, as a professional electrical engineer, it is crucial to understand the importance of using solder flux to achieve strong and reliable soldered joints in electronic circuits. This is why it is crucial to have a good understanding of the different types of solder flux, such as rosin flux, water soluble flux, and others, and know how to use them correctly in your soldering projects. Whether you are brazing, reflow soldering, or using a soldering iron, the use of the correct solder flux can make all the difference in terms of the quality of your soldered joints and the longevity of your electronic circuit. In addition, the correct use of solder flux can also help to prevent any harm to the environment, such as through minimizing the risk of SRA (Solder Reflow Anomaly) and improving the wetting of your solder wire. So, by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can optimize your use of solder flux and achieve the best results in your soldering projects.

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