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How do I get started designing and making and/or acquiring my own pcb? (lemmy.world)
submitted 11 months ago by to c/electronics@discuss.tchncs.de
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Hobbyist/DIY guy in a garage. I use Linux. I have briefly tested Eagle and a couple circuit design apps but didn't like anything about any of them, did not spend sufficient time with them either, though. Eagle is going away? Any recommended apps for designing pcb and/or services? I am also open to more artisinal methods. What direction should I point my momentum? Not afraid to try things out but also not wanting to waste time. I have been breadboarding for a minute, learned to solder, benn making some pcb gadgets and think I am ready. Thank you. (Pic is audio mixer with two NE5532 and LM386)

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[–] 5 points 11 months ago (2 children)

The toner transfer method would be I think the most DIY method you can use. Make your pcbs entirely by yourself at home.

Naturally wont give you as professional a result: no silkscreen, limited to 2-layer pcbs (2 sides of a copper plate).

But it is a lot faster that having it manufactured (takes me like 1 hour for a pcb) and maybe this is debatable but it makes me feel like I have more room to make mistakes.

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  • [–] [S] 3 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago) (2 children)

    I am open to try this because it appeals to my sensibility. Do you have any advice to get started because I am interested and will try this if it is feasible in my garage environment? I am serious. What are the minimum materials needed/must-have requirements? I am down for this shit.

    I have a laser jet printer, what kind of ventilation are we talking for the chemical? I have fume extractor on my soldering station,

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  • [–] 5 points 11 months ago (1 child)

    Definitely look up a how to. It's been 15 years since I did this, but you'll need some photo paper to print the toner on, then use a towel and iron to transfer it to the copper clad cob. Then soak it in some FeCl for 15ish minutes. I just did this outside since it was so quick. Then like a small dremel with pcb sized bits works great for throughholes.

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  • [–] [S] 3 points 11 months ago (2 children)

    Awesome, yes can just do the chemical outside if volume is small and time is fast. I see there a number of how to, thank you for the inspiration, I will be trying this for sure.

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  • [–] 2 points 11 months ago*

    This is a fine approach too. Just be aware that most modern mcu would be a hell to mount on DIY. Also, this works on literally any paper with super bold print setting.

    I would recommend trying copper-based etch, it's easier to work with than FeCl3 (it's transparent, to begin with, and not as corrosive to other stuff). Edit: remember to wear goggles, all these things really destroy eyes on splash. Wash eyes for at least 15 minutes with running water if got it there.

    Also, I've heard some dudes made really nice stencils for paste with some cheap hobby blade CNC tools on cardboard, there are models that have orders of mad higher precision than advertized. Never tried this myself though, lazer cut stainless steel plates from factory are just soooo good (and also a source of high quality steel in a workshop when you don't need them anymore, they make perfect wood scrapers and such)

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  • [–] 2 points 11 months ago*

    Other than what others have suggested:

    • Do get an etch resist pen. The toner occasionally, even when it goes well, might not transfer on some spots of the copper plate. So you'll need the etch resist marker to color in breaks in paths etc. and fix these little issues.
    • The acid or whatever you use to etch away the copper might not work on some spots. Leading to shorts or otherwise unwanted connections. So do check with a multimeter the paths and pads that are close to make sure there arent shorts. You can scratch away unwanted copper with a blade.

    I dont think theres much more to add, its quite a simple process. Have fun :)

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