🚀 go-pugleaf

 On extracting chips from a board, I've found that a blowtorch works
just fine. Specifically, I use the mini-blowtorch from Radio Shock, which
burns butane.

 I used this method to extract a 40 pin chip I wanted from a surplus 
PC board. It is not difficult - have a friend with a chip puller pull the
chip (gently!) as you run the flame from the blowtorch quickly but smoothly
over the solder side of the pins.

 The PC board will catch on fire and blister a bit until the solder has 
melted. This is the sign I take that the IC will soon fall out. Put the
chip aside and let it cool for an hour or so before using. The chip will
be very hot so if you pick it up right away you will be able to read the
chip numbers off your fingers. Once it's cooled, it works without any
noticeable damage. 

The disadvantages are that you trash the circuit board, so this rules out
pulling the chip to repair the board. Also, there is an acrid odor and oily
smoke that will fog the room for a while, so you should do it with the window
open, or better yet, outside. 

 I am only using a toy blowtorch, so those with metal-cutting blowtorch
rigs are left to determine their own chip extraction methods.

                                                            Derrick