Homebrew PCBs

In a message dated 7/29/2004 10:23:09 PM Central Standard Time, 
dave_mucha@... writes:
Any ideas on a a simple way to do plating 
Dave:  Even IF PTH was no more hassle than etching a single-sided board, if 
one DOES PTH the drilled blank successfully/adequately, THEN the ONLY way to 
apply "resist" is to TIN-PLATE the desired pattern using a "negative" image of 
"plating resist" which exposes only the desired tracks and the "insides" of the 
holes, of course.  Then the tin plating resists the ammonium persulfate etch. 
 

Sad, but MUCH more involved than basic double-sided copper boards!  I tried 
the "electroless tin-plate" one firm (Kepro???) once offered, and it worked, 
but NOT very well, and required pre-heating of the liquid, and it PRECLUDED the 
use of "kitchen utensils" as many of us do, AND, even if done a VERY long 
time, the resulting plating was NOT totally "chemically opaque", so pin-holes 
would result during etching, etc., etc.  Though boards plated with this 
electroless tin stuff DID look much better than corroded ol' brown copper!  So I now 
have any of MY boards done professionally, if I need ten or more of same board, 
or gold fingers, and just "solder both sides" of lead-wires for those holes 
that MUST "go through", or I use eyelets where absolutely necessary.  A pain, 
yes, and not as "neat" as PTH, but what can we do?  PUNT!

Jan Rowland


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