Homebrew PCBs

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "scratch_6057" <dml.empsrch@...>
>> But it's still tedious. cam2images.ulp helps by
>> automating the image export from Eagle. cam2print.ulp does
>> something similar for printing, but only one image per page.
>
> Are those CAM files on the Cadsoft site? If not, where can I find
> them?

Define them in the CAM processor. File|CAM Processor... Define a new job, 
and then define a section in that job for each group of layers you want to 
image.

> Oh Yea $1.50 per sheet is kind of expensive, I'm using the
> Staples "photo basic" "gloss" Staples item# 471861
> UPC code 71803028561 ~$9.00 for 30 sheet pack, so about 1/5 the cost
> of Pulsar paper. Also you might want to look at my post on "WATER
> SOLUABLE PAPER" ~ $0.85 per sheet.

That's getting closer. The problem really isn't the money, is it? I spend 
that on a cup of pseudo-coffee without thinking or blinking. The trick, I 
think, is to just buy a ream of something usable, and then quickly forget 
how much you paid for it. When it comes in packs of 10, they feel just a 
little more precious, too precious to waste let alone use properly, no 
matter how much or little it cost. Running out of something is to be 
dreaded, because then I'll have to be aware for a short while how much it 
costs when replacing it. (Direct deposit and debit cards work well for me; 
money is a problem only when it leaves that level of abstraction.)

> Are your boards just  the wrong size to use the panelize.ulp in Eagle
> and get multiples to a 80mm x 100mm print?

Everything I do is one of, so that isn't a problem. Anyway, I just assumed 
that the freebie Eagle wouldn't let the board get larger than whatever limit 
it has, but maybe that's only for the autorouter. Panelizing in Photoshop is 
also pretty easy, even if it can't be 100% automated.

>> tainted and contaminated with skin oil, and thus one step closer to
>> garbage, each time I pick it up to handle it.
>
> You might consider going to the Pharmacy / drug store and picking up
> some latex gloves (probably should use around etchant anyway) and get
> some tweezers from the cosmetics section.

Boy, have I got tweezers. :) Vacuum suction thingees, too. SOT23's and 
0402's lost that fight some time ago.

I still work with negatives (digital won't begin to touch 4x5 film for 
detail for some time yet; probably never will). I use lint-free cotton 
gloves but am still paranoid about things. Swipe the side of your nose or 
forehead just once...

I can't wait to see what new neuroses next year brings.