Week 5: Etching PRoCeSS

Actually I’ve got some help in etching my project because that time was my semester break.  I’ve asked my sister who is studying at UTHM to help me etching my PCB Board.  There’s some picture of the etching process.  Eventhough my etching process was doing by my sister, I’m also learning how to etching with my several friend just to know how the process it is.  Well, I’ve also already been exposed on how to do myself the etching when I’m was doing my diploma’s final project. There’s the flow of etching process:-

a) Build the PCB layout

PCB Fabrication

1. PCB Drawing: PCB drawing is designed using Protel DXP 2005, this software can automatically convert schematic file to PCB automatically.

2.    Film Printing: After PCB file is generated, use laser printer to print it on transparency.

3.    PCB Cutting: Cut photo PCB size according to the film size.

4.    PCB Photo Etching: Expose the photo PCB in photo etching kit for 8-10minutes.

5.    PCB Developing: Wash the PCB using PCB developer (white powder) for 2 min.

6.    Acid Etching: After PCB is developed, put it in Ferric Chloride liquid. Add in hot water (80C) and shake the water until you see unused part is ‘washed’ and left only the tracks. The etching process takes around 30 min.

7.    Alcohol Washing: Wash the PCB with alcohol to get rid off the green coating.

8.    Drilling: Drill PCB after alcohol washing, use drill bit 0.8mm, 1.0mm and 1.2mm.

9.    Soldering: Place all components on the PCB, use tape to stick all components tightly on the PCB and then solder the components using soldering iron and lead.

b) complete the PCB board.

After the drilling, I’ve continued the process to complete my circuit.  Honestly, I’ve got too many helps from my sister and her friend in accomplish this circuit. Now its turn to connect this circuit with the all the output.

To be continued.....