Homebrew PCBs

1.  I don't use thin boards, so I can't answer for sure, but thinner boards should take a little less temperature-pressure-time.  There is less mass to absorb the heat from the iron, possibly leading to overheating
2.  Warm water is definitely better.  The washing-up liquid acts as a wetting agent and warm water helps it soak in and wet the paper faster.
3.  Too much temperature-pressure-time causes the toner to "smush out" sideways, causing fatter traces.  Too little T-P-T leaves the toner inadequately transferred.  Just right T-P-T is just right.

HTH,
Donald.
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----- Original Message -----

> From: "Randy S." <rj3819@...>
> To: "Homebrew_PCB" <homebrew_pcbs@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Wednesday, March 2, 2011 1:24:01 PM
> Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Toner Transfer Method questions
> 
> Hi all .. just some generic questions .. 
> If they have been asked already .. apologies.
> 
> I use the iron on method for now.
> Flat on the workpiece for a couple minutes followed by 4 - 5
> minutes of "roller heat" . Where I roll the board
> on a dowel using the iron .. 
> 
> 1.   Heat and pressure is the method of course.
> I am assuming I would have to change the time
> for different thickness boards ? I have some .031
> boards .. very tough to get to work. Which is why
> I am asking mostly.
> 
> 2.  When rubbing the paper off .. is it better to
> soak the board in warm soapy water versus cold water?
> I was thinking that  perhaps the soap would be a
> wetting / release agent to some small degree and 
> warm water a catalyst ?
> 
> 3.  Effects of too much heat ?  does it actually
> do something to the toner such that it in this
> state causes it to not stick as well ?? 
> So .. there can be too little OR too much heat that
> can cause similar issues?
> 
> Thanks .. 
> 
> Randy - N2CUA
> 
> Most boards are coming out fine ..
> Just fine tuning .. :)
> 
> 
> 
>       
> 
> 
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