DIY PCB etching

[Fraser, Colin J]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Hallgeir Helland [mailto:hhelland at mailandnews.com]
> Sent: 03 April 2000 14:01
> To: DIY
> Subject: DIY PCB etching
> 
> I just successfully etched my very first (at home) PCB!
> I used the ELFA kit including laminate, developer and
> etching powder. And my home made UV exposer. (low cost)
> 
> Here's my question: The etching solution is best at 50 
> degrees centigrade - on this first board I used hot tap
> water, but now it has chilled. Can I heat it in the
> microwave oven?? Or is that dangerous?

What sort of etchant are you using ?
The etchant I use is best at 40 degrees, and it starts to break down at 50
degrees, so you need to have a thermostatically controlled heater.
You can get these relatively cheaply, so that's probably your best bet.

I would advise against heating toxic chemicals in domestic cooking
applicances !


Colin f