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Subject: Re: Yag laser?

From: "anode505" <anode505@...>
Date: 2003-06-11

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "John Myszkowski"
<myszka_us2000@y...> wrote:

> With the YAG, you could cut copper by pulsing and checking the
light
> return (feedback or reflection) from the material during the pulse.
> There is always scattered light from the point where the laser
> impacts. When much lower scattered light (reflection) is detected,
> then you are through the copper layer. Just move to the next point
> and start popping the copper.

Not too sure if I'd pulse here, depends on the power of the Yag
>
> I think the best use of laser would be to vapourize the resist,
which
> could simply be a varnish or paint. That way you could easily use a
> low power CO2 laser.

Dangerous! (I'd use paint or a graphite spray) That way you
are 'basically' etching copper with a CO2. Keep in mind all the
mirrors in a CO2 are copper, because it reflects that part or the
spectum (10600nm) ∗so∗ well. (sure there are a few laysers of
special coatings, but its the copper that actually reflecting)

The idea of the Yag for this, was to avoid chemicals, and be a bit
quicker, 'etch' and drill all in one step.

Time to go find some surplus Yag crystals on E-Bay :)
But I think this is getting a bit out of hand/usefulness.
Maybe in time.....