[sdiy] pcb-fab help

[Jim Robertson]

I have used "Express PCB" quite a bit and been very
happy with the results.  I think it will do exactly
what you are looking for.  You can download their
layout software for FREE from www.expresspcb.com and
order boards directly over the internet.  Very simple
learning curve and the software will calculate the
cost depending on qty and options.  I believe it even
includes a free schematic designer package in the
latest version that works hand in hand with the pcb
layout (though I have not tried it yet).  

It is limited to double sided (plated thru holes) and
the file format is (of course) proprietary, but the
price is right and you get the boards in 3 days (US). 
Very similar to the Shaffer-App front panel service.  

I do recommend panelizing your design onto larger
boards then cutting them apart to keep the costs down.
 

Jim Robertson
Germany
http://lightbrain.8m.com/



--- mcphive at corrupt.net wrote:
> 
> 	hi!
> 
> 	i have been working on some DIY processing stuff,
> and would like
> to get my own PCBs made. i need a quantity of around
> 30-50, because i plan
> to modify them by using different parts/etc, and
> will be building several
> of the same circuits up for some musician friends of
> mine.
> 
> 	however, i have no experience in laying out a PC
> board, which is
> why i am writing the list. i would be glad to
> pre-pay anyone with some PCB
> layout experience to create a board from my
> schematic, and to draw up
> adequate files so i can have a fabrication place
> make the boards for me.
> (or even to get the boards done and have them sent
> here.) they will be
> relatively small (2"x3" max, i'm guessing),
> single-sided, and relatively
> simple.
> 
> 	some experience with designing PC boards is
> preferable. if you are
> reading this far, i will be glad to pay you a very
> decent price for a few
> hours' layout work... this is not something i would
> ask people to do for
> free! :)
> 
> 	please do contact me if you have any tips, even if
> you are not
> interested in doing layout, because i would love to
> know how much i should
> expect the fabrication to cost, and what is a fair
> price to pay for
> something like this!
> 
> 
> 	thanks again!
> 	andy
> 
> 
> 


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