beginner questions (PCBs)

[Paul Perry]

>> third, my past experience etching circuit boards didn't turn out so well,
>> but i've seen "professional" systems with heaters for the etchant. is this
>> worth the money? any advice about this?
>
I'm using a thin vertical plastic 'tank' (cost about $50, some mail order
places 
have these, also Dick Smith in Australia) which accepts a normal aquarium
air pump.
Also, I put an aquarium heater in it.
But, the best thing is, I put a desk lamp with a 100W bulb right behind it,
so you
can see EXACTLY when you have done etching. Also, using persulphate etchant,
you can see real easy what it is doing. The bubbles really help even up the
etching.
BTW, I think it gets more heat from the bulb than the heater ;-)

paul perry melbourne australia