Homebrew PCBs

On Sunday 18 May 2003 09:33, Stefan Trethan scribbled:
> how do you cut the pcb material?
> ....
> any new and nice ideas are very welcome.

Haven't tried the paper cutter method, but it seems to work for many people.  
I use either a hacksaw (takes time), then clean up with a flat-file.  Or a 
pair of paramedic scissors (really fast, and can cut curves).  I've also used 
a roto-zip (with a rotary cutting bit) to cut complex curves.  Works well, 
but messy.


> have all of you professional pcb drill presses or how do you drill your
> boards? (maybe homebuilt ones and a picture of them???)

Tried a dremel tool with the Dremel drill-press attachment.  Was too wobbly 
for any precise work, so I dumped it and got a real drill press.  Harbor 
freight has a 50% off sale, so I paid $40 for the drill press.  Much cheaper, 
and sturdier than the dremel solution.  Yes, it is slower, but works 
excellent still.

For drill bits, I use Harbor Freight's 20-pc grab bag of carbide bits.  It's a 
*random* assortment, but even if I get only 10 useable sizes, it's worth it 
for US$5.  Never had any go dull, but I've broken a couple due to my mistake 
of moving the board during drilling.

I'm very happy with my setup now.

Cheers,
-Neil.