Homebrew PCBs

lcdpublishing wrote:

>I am having the most difficult time trying to do toner transfer on 
>some circuit boards.  I have tried 15 different papers including a new 
>batch of Pulsar paper which isn't working either. I changed out the 
>toner cartridge on the printer.  I have tried about 15 different 
>settings on my iron for different temps.  I tried 3 different laser 
>printers (all that I have).  I just cannot get toner to stick to the 
>boards.
>
>I have tried scotch bright, 400 grit paper, 600 grit paper, 1000 grit 
>paper, and 1200 grit paper.  I clean very thoroughly with acetone, I 
>don't touch the copper after cleaning, I don't touch the paper after 
>printing.  
>
>I am stumped and getting really frustrated - grrrrrr.
>
>  
>

  Sounds like you've covered about everything else, the one thing I can 
think of off hand is if you iron simply isn't hot enough.  10 is a 
relative setting, if it doesn't have a high enough wattage, it may 
simply not get the toner hot enough on the other side of the paper.   
Try a different iron, or heat your oven to 300-350 ish, tape the paper 
to the board, and toss the board in once it's hot.  Shouldn't take more 
than a few minutes to get to temp. pull things out then use the iron 
just to get some pressure while still hot.  Won't get a good board, but 
if you get some ok transfer then you at least know everything else is 
working ok..  Be careful and don't get burned.


Actually, from the discussion on hot plates etc, I'm going to try 
straight on the stove.  The flat top stove I have has one of the best 
heating element patterns I've ever seen, at least over a 1/2 diameter 
section of the circular area.  Not to sure about pressing hard on the 
ceramic top so going to use a bit of extra heat for testing..

Alan