Hi,
My newest (and best) way for making PCBs is to use Hot Stamping foil
("for laser printers & photocopiers") instead of the backing paper.
I've been using the laser labels backing paper for making PCB's, but
it always left tiny dots where the toner was too thin.
I get the foil from my local office supply store. The one I use is
called "GeoFoil", but there are other brands as well.
It is a product that is used to stick to hot toner (laser printer or
photocopier).
The main advantage over toner only is that the foil fills in all the
holes left in the toner image. That creates a better etch resist.
The way I use it is as follows:
1) print the PCB image on the back (gray or dull side) of the
transfer foil...
∗∗∗actually, just use the directions for using the "PCB Blue" sheets.
10) for best results apply a lot of heat and very little pressure.
The results are great. I can print down to .005in lines .010in spaces.
Takes a bit of practice, but even double sided boards are doable.
I use an old hot foil printing machine, but the regular iron works
almost as well and is much cheaper.
One place to get the foils if local office supplies store doesn't
carry them (in great quantities) is at:
http://www.crownrollleaf.com/foils.htmlThey will also send you free samples if you ask for them (and
qualify :)
The price varies. I got the GeoFoil on clearance sale last month for
$1.50 per pack of 10 sheets (various colours). I suppose, the regular
price is the same as the PCB Blue stuff, but available locally. No
shipping costs and no waiting.
John Myszkowski...
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