Homebrew PCB's :-}

This is my favourite and most used method of making PCB's...The Toner Transfer Method.

I dont have a digital camera now. I will post the pictures as soon as possible. Here is How I do it:

• Make the PCB CAD file using EAGLECAD. (I use the student version).I usually add text such as my call to make sure that the design in inverted.
  
• After making sure the board is inverted I print the whole thing on a PHOTO GLOSSY PAPER. Other types dont work!!! It costs around Rs. 10/Sheet here in Chennai.
• After geting the print onto the glossy paper, Cut a Blank Copper clad PCB material Board. One Sq.Mt of this costs Rs. 100/- and give you a lot of PCB's(depending on the size of your design.)
• To cut the board use a metal ruler and a good quality Pen knife(US:X-acto Knife). Score a couple of times with the pen knife on both sides of the board and you can very easily break the whole thing with a snap.
• Use a dish scrubber(I use a Scotch-Brite vessel scrubber) and scrub the whole PCB material you just cut.
• Wear Proctection over your Face as the copper dust is potentially unsafe.Once you Have cleaned the whole thing just make sure you dont touch the board directly(to avoid the nasty finger oils). Use Gloves Or something :))
• Place the PCB material on a waste newspaper and place the PCB on it.Place the design on top of the PCB and secure it if needed.
• Switch on your Clothes Iron and set it at Max. Temperature.
• Iron for 5 to 6 minutes until the paper turns brown.
• Soak the pcb without removing the paper in a dish of water.slowly peel of the paper.
• If the toner is not transfered well use 2 to 3 coats from a permanent maker(AKA OHP maker/US: Sharpie).
• Use Your Favourite Etchant to etch the board. Although I use Ferric Chloride now, I am planning to switch to acidic cupric chloride . This seems to be easily available and environment friendly :)

As a standard disclaimer Act Responsible Now. I will not take balme if you go wrong somewhere.
Knifes,Etchants,copper dust etc. are dangerous. Take Adequate Protection.

Have Fun,

73's