cutting PCB traces

[Magnus Danielson]

From: Paul Perry <pfperry at melbpc.org.au>
Subject: cutting PCB traces
Date: Sun, 16 Jan 2000 17:46:06 +1100

Hi Paul!

> What is the best way?
> Can I use an engraving tool (eg like the Dremel
> engraver inthe TechAmerica cat) for this?

I strongly recommend you (and any one else) to use scalpels for this. There
are good onces available for not too much money. There are those with a good
metal shaft and replaceable blades, use those. Using that lends itself well
to nice clean cuts and removing a fairly broad line is simple, start with two
cuts parallel to each other but 90 degreeds to the trace. Then you can start
to make the foil lift on you. I use it under the microscope at work for our
stuff there and you just reminded me that I need to fetch one for myself here
at home.

The benefit of using a scalpel over an engraving tool or the like (drill) is
that you will not get as much dust and especially conducting dust isn't nice
to have floating around all over. Clean lifts is much better.

Just think what that copper dust can do in the wrong places!

Cheers,
Magnus