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What are LaserPCBs? LaserPCBs are a new method of producing prototype and low-volume printed circuit boards in-house more easily and quickly than conventional methods. How does the process work? A circuit board layout is printed directly onto a sheet of our specially treated copper laminate using your own laser printer. The copper sheet is then adhered to a sheet of FR4 board (provided in the kit). The sheet is then etched and drilled in a conventional fashion. The toner from the laser printer acts as an etch resist during etching. Is the process difficult to learn and use? No! Our process is simple and comes with detailed instructions. If you run into difficulty or have any questions, help is available via instant chat (click the Live Help button at the top of the page) or the ticket system. How long does it take to make a circuit board? Once your layout is complete, it is possible to have a working board in less than 30 minutes. The time involved will depend on whether you are designing a single or double-sided board and the complexity of that board. How much do LaserPCBīs cost? The cost is as low as $7.50 per 8-1/2" x 11" sheet, including the FR4 board and coating gel. Each sheet may be cut smaller, yielding many boards from one LaserPCB. Can I make double sided boards? Absolutely! The LaserPCB process allows you to produce both single and double sided boards. Is any special equipment required? No, you do not have to purchase any special equipment or chemicals to utilize our process. You will need a standard laser printer, rubbing alcohol, etch bath, drill press, ScotchBrite pad (or Xylene), and scissors. The laser printer should have a straight paper path. Any with a rear-exit paper path should do fine. The FR4 board is thin enough (0.020") to be cut with ordinary scissors (although they will dull faster, so don't use your good hair-cutting scissors!). How does it compare to standard copper-clad board? A standard copper-clad board uses 1 oz copper (1.4 mils thick). The copper on a LaserPCB sheet is 1.25 mils thick. We use the thinner copper to reduce wear on the laser printer and to speed etching. How small can I make the traces? That depends on the resolution and density of your printer. However, we donīt recommend traces smaller than 10 mils. What kind of laser printer can be used? The laser printer should have a relatively straight paper path. Typically this means any printer with a rear-load or rear-exit option. Sharp bends in the path are undesireable and may cause damage to the printer and/or the LaserPCB. To determine the paper path of your printer, consult your technical manual or call the manufacturer. |
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