Do It Yourself (DIY) Tutorials

This section gives step by step instructions on how to fabricate your own circuit boards. DIY fabrication of your circuit boards can be achieved by using the PCB lab in MRC

(For more information on MRC click the Lab info link).

Processes

The processes invovled in DIY fabrication are:

1. Sharpie Process
2. Rub-Ons Process
3. Thermal Transfer Process
4. Wet Etch Process
   
   A detailed description of these processes could be found downloaded :
   
   (Word) (PDF)

When done using the lab at the MRC, please follow the instructions in the “Lab Cleanup” section.

Lab Clean up

For details on how to clean the lab when you are done with your particular fabrication process, click here.

Sharpie Method

2. Fill glass container with Ferric Chloride etch. Fill plastic container with cool tap water. Fill both with 1 inch of liquid.

NOTE: Wear gloves, apron, and eyewear when handling chemicals.
CAUTION: Ferric Chloride will stain clothing.

3. Remove blank board from package. Clean copper surface with isopropyl alcohol.

NOTE: Copper side has shiny metallic surface.
NOTE: Substrate has dull green or brown surface.

4. Draw circuit schematic on copper surface with Sharpie ink pen.

NOTE: Copper will remain where ink is drawn.

5. Submerge board into etch solution copper side up.

NOTE: Swirling motion will speed up etch process.
CAUTION: Do not spill liquid.

6. Etch process will take up to 30 minutes. Remove board and check progress every 5 minutes. Avoid over etching.

NOTE: Above etch example not complete. Notice remaining copper.

7. Remove from etch. Submerge into cool water copper side up for 2-3 minutes.

NOTE: Remaining ink can be removed with isopropyl alcohol.
NOTE: Mistakes can be fixed with conductive ink marker..