Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Terry Mickelson <tmdslca@t...> 
wrote:
> 
> I'm told micro toner is used by Banks to get a raised feel to check 
> printing. Assuming more toner is deposited, is it a good choice for 
the 
> toner transfer method?
> TM

I think you are referring to MICR toner.  This stands for Magnetic 
Ink Character Recognition.  This type of toner is used to print 
routing symbols, acccount numbers and amounts on checks that are 
printed on a computer.  The advantage to the user is that they need 
only stock one blank check form.  The remainder of the required 
information on the check is printed xerographically.

Banks use check readers that read the magnetic ink coded characters 
directly from the checks; no manual keying is necessary.

This toner no doubt has a blend of traditional toner elements 
combined with some magnetic metal (I don't know what metal).

It is also likely this toner would become reactive to the etchant, 
defeating the purpose of the toner as an etch resist.  

I also do not believe the MICR characters are raised.  Feel along the 
bottom of one of your checks where the MICR printing is. The MICR 
printing consists of the block style numbers.

I would be interested in knowing how print shops do raised letter 
business cards that mimic true engraved raised letter printing. 

RTurley