Homebrew PCBs

On Wed, 12 Apr 2006 18:02:12 +0200, Alan Marconett <KM6VV@...> wrote:

> HI Jan,
>
>
> I DO like the effect.  I really wouldn't want any acid residue left on  
> the
>
> board.

A few minutes earlier you pulled the PCB out of a very corrosive liquid  
that is designed to etch copper, it is not a problem if washed off.

> I see the "tinning" process, but as it involves heat as you describe it,
>
> then one must go over EACH trace in it's entirety to tin?
>

One would heat the whole board with hot air or in an oven.

>
> I'd really not want to subject the board to any unnecessary trace  
> heading if
>
> it could be avoided.

I can see why, but if there is no force put on it it really isn't damaging.

>
>
> I was under the impression that some sort of plating of the tin could be
>
> done; either by current or a chemical solution.  With current, it would  
> seem
>
> that a connection would have to be made to EACH trace, which might prove
>
> difficult.
>

Yes, electroless plating does not require current, but usually the  
chemicals are more expensive and a lot nastier.

ST