Prototyping Center

Intro to Prototyping

Frequently asked questions

Q. How does your system work?

A. The system has four basic steps:
1. Create circuit artwork positive on transparency
2. Expose presensitized copper clad board with artwork
3. Develop board to remove photo-exposed resist
4. Etch the exposed copper away to reveal only the copper that was resisted according to your artwork
See a more detailed version of our prototyping process

Q. What do I need to buy in order to create a board from scratch?

A. You need all of the following products:

Product Name Description Cat. No.
Laser Transperency Print your circuitboard artwork on this paper using a laser printer 416-T
Copper Clad Board
(Presensitized)
Made of fibreglass and covered with copper and etch resist material, this board is the foundation of your circuitboard prototype. Various sizes available. 600 Series
Exposure Kit Exposes your circuitboard artwork onto your presensitized board 416-X
Photofabrication Kit Removes exposed resist from your board. This kit also contains a few presensitized boards to get you started. Additional developer available seperately. 416-K
Etch Resist Pen Draw on additional areas to be protected from etchant with this pen. Can also be used to touch up artwork. 416-RP
Etchant

A chemical which strips away un-resisted copper from your developed board. Select one of our three etchants based on your requirements:

Ferric Chloride - opaque, fast acting
Ammonium Persulphate - clear, safe
Sodium Persulphate - clear, safe, compatible with etch resist pen

415
410
4101
Etching Kit These kits ensure your board is accurately and evenly etched. Compatible with all three etchants. Select from Economy and Professional kits. 416-ES
416-E


Photofabrication Process

Obtain Exposure and Photofabrication Kits Peel back protective backing off of presensitized copper clad board Place artwork on board Place acrylic weight on artwork and board Expose 5 min. with Exposure Kit Mix Developer 10:1 with water Brush developer over board (1 - 2 min) Rinse Etch with Ferric Chloride (4 - 5 min) Rinse









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