Post by Dingo on Jan 14, 2006 21:27:13 GMT 10
Here my some of my tips for homebrewing PCBs when using heat transfer method:
1) Always include some ground planes or similar large areas of copper. Whether needed or not.
Reason: I've found that if they are not included, when you place the pattern on the hot copper, it might shift and pull some of the longest traces. This has happened many times to me until I tried adding big planes. Now it seems that the planes help stabilise the pattern. Well it at least has stopped my long traces nto transfering.
2) Use the cheapest paper - it seems to not bond with the ink as much as more expensive stuff.
3) After transferring, let the paper soak longer than you'd think - at least 5 minutes. It comes off more easily. Still might need a toothbrush though.
4) If you are having trouble getting the paper through the printer, pre-curl it. I know you should try an minimise curling, but it is better than no pattern at all.
More to come I'm sure......
1) Always include some ground planes or similar large areas of copper. Whether needed or not.
Reason: I've found that if they are not included, when you place the pattern on the hot copper, it might shift and pull some of the longest traces. This has happened many times to me until I tried adding big planes. Now it seems that the planes help stabilise the pattern. Well it at least has stopped my long traces nto transfering.
2) Use the cheapest paper - it seems to not bond with the ink as much as more expensive stuff.
3) After transferring, let the paper soak longer than you'd think - at least 5 minutes. It comes off more easily. Still might need a toothbrush though.
4) If you are having trouble getting the paper through the printer, pre-curl it. I know you should try an minimise curling, but it is better than no pattern at all.
More to come I'm sure......
