I occasionally run across a board where I need to solder or de-solder a pin/device that is connected to a huge ground plane. On a blank board, should I use a hot plate to pre-heat the entire board so the solder iron can melt and flow the solder on the pin?

What about a populated board that has devices on both sides or through hole components that prevent the board from coming in contact with the hot plate?

Thanks.

i think official reworking stations use ir 'light' to heat (part of) the board.

i have used a heat gun (paint stripper) to some degree of success but whatch out not to heat it too far / blow of small components..