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Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: laser printing directly to the copper boards?

From: "Stefan Trethan" <stefan_trethan@...>
Date: 2005-11-19

On Sat, 19 Nov 2005 22:08:50 +0100, Dave <wa4qal@...> wrote:

>
>
>
> Ok, this is probably a Real Dumb idea, but I'll toss it out, just
>
> on the chance that it might work. How about printing directly to
>
> copper foil, and then gluing the copper foil to a fiberglass
>
> substrate, and then etching to make your board. I know that you
>
> can get Copper foil at some craft stores (I currently have a sheet
>
> of 2 mil Copper foil.). Yeah, it sounds like a LOT of work. And,
>
> it probably won't work. But, it might be worth a try.
>
>
> Dave


You still have the trouble with the shorted charge.
I tried printing on aluminum foil, and it showed only about 50% of the
toner will be transferred, because it is only "by chance" and not held by
the charge, which isn't enough to resist etching.

However there is something in that direction, that works now. If you use
one of those wax printers (e.g. tektronix phaser) it can print directly on
thin material, and works as etch resist.


ST