Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: Homebrew PCBs

I use a 395 Dremel, which has workable 'runout' and is more robust.
I don't use it for side cutting tiles etc. to wear the bearings. I do
use it with cutoff blades for machine screws or scoring PCBs.
The problem is with the Dremel press wobble.

Anyhow I ordered the FBS115 Proxxon tool, mini machine vise, and
matched CNC machined press as a 'upgrade' . I have the x-y table on
hand already, to do a bit of slotting for RF PCBs or SPADE connector
slotting as required.
The dremel will get used for the cutoff blades or the > 1.2mm holes.

I got a 4" table saw with a diamond blade that rips through PCBs (1/16"
blade) and dumps the dust at the bottom.
The solution with fine dust is to wet the PCB before drilling/cutting;
lowers wear on the bits as well. A vaseline wipe works as well and
evaporates during soldering.
I back light the PCB with a pair of hi brightness white LEDs before
drilling. No missed holes or vias as I etch the donuts.
I also donut pad the 6-32 machine screw holes to centre punch with a 1mm
drill before the 3mm.

I did try laser cutting/drilling FR1 phenolic but it carbonizes and
requires multiple low power passes.