Homebrew PCBs

>
> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something like this:
> 
> http://zentoolworks.com/
> 
> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> 
> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> 
> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> 
> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> 
> Mat
>

>Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion 
>going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it 
>sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
>
>Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
>
>It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
>
>Ken H.
>
>--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@...> wrote:
> >
> > I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something 
> like this:
> >
> > http://zentoolworks.com/
> >
> > To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool 
> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg 
> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this 
> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> >
> > I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype 
> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> >
> > Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> >
> > One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying 
> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of 
> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> >
> > Mat
> >
>
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

>
> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though 
> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an 
> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be 
> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy, 
> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board 
> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill 
> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360 
> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also 
> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for 
> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's 
> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they 
> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while 
> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that 
> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely 
> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting 
> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> 
> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in 
> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> 
> Mark
> 
> 
> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> >Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion 
> >going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it 
> >sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> >
> >Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> >
> >It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> >
> >Ken H.
> >
> >--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >
> > > I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something 
> > like this:
> > >
> > > http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >
> > > To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool 
> > for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg 
> > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this 
> > type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >
> > > I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype 
> > boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> > >
> > > Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >
> > > One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying 
> > some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of 
> > polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >
> > > Mat
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>

>That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
>time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
>slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
>motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
>outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
>Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
>perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
>to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
>Then I use toner transfer.
>
>Kerry
>
>sailingto wrote:
> > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of 
> the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a 
> homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances 
> required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost 
> several hundred bucks!
> >
> > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks 
> keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> >
> > Ken H.
> >
> >
> > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
> >
> >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> >>
> >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> >>
> >> Mark
> >>
> >>
> >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> >>
> >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> >>>
> >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> >>>
> >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> >>>
> >>> Ken H.
> >>>
> >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> >>>>
> >>> like this:
> >>>
> >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> >>>>
> >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> >>>>
> >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> >>>
> >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> >>>>
> >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> >>>
> >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> >>>>
> >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> >>>>
> >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> >>>
> >>>> Mat
> >>>>
>
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

From: "sailingto" <sailingtoo@...>
To: <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Thursday, March 18, 2010 7:00 AM
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Using a home made CNC router for pcb milling?


> Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of the 
> reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a homebrew CNC 
> mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances required for good PCB 
> milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost several hundred bucks!
>
> Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks keep 
> telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
>
> Ken H.
>
>
> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
>>
>> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
>> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
>> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
>> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
>> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
>> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
>> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
>> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
>> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
>> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
>> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
>> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
>> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
>> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
>> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
>> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
>>
>> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
>> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
>>
>> Mark
>>
>>
>> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
>> >Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
>> >going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
>> >sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
>> >
>> >Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
>> >
>> >It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
>> >
>> >Ken H.
>> >
>> >--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
>> > >
>> > > I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
>> > like this:
>> > >
>> > > http://zentoolworks.com/
>> > >
>> > > To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
>> > for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
>> > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
>> > type of device for milling the pcb itself.
>> > >
>> > > I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
>> > boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and 
>> > messy.
>> > >
>> > > Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
>> > >
>> > > One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
>> > some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
>> > polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
>> > >
>> > > Mat
>> > >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >------------------------------------
>> >
>> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and 
>> >Photos:
>> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>> >
>> >
>> >
>>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and 
> Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

> Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost several hundred bucks! 
>
> Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
>
> Ken H. 
>
>
> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
>   
>> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though 
>> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an 
>> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be 
>> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy, 
>> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board 
>> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill 
>> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360 
>> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also 
>> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for 
>> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's 
>> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they 
>> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while 
>> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that 
>> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely 
>> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting 
>> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
>>
>> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in 
>> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
>>
>> Mark
>>
>>
>> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
>>     
>>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion 
>>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it 
>>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
>>>
>>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
>>>
>>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
>>>
>>> Ken H.
>>>
>>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
>>>       
>>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something 
>>>>         
>>> like this:
>>>       
>>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
>>>>
>>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool 
>>>>         
>>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg 
>>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this 
>>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
>>>       
>>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype 
>>>>         
>>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
>>>       
>>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
>>>>
>>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying 
>>>>         
>>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of 
>>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
>>>       
>>>> Mat
>>>>

-----Original Message-----
From: Mark Lerman <mlerman@ix.netcom.com>
Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:00:55 
To: <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Using a home made CNC router for pcb
  milling?

I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the 
following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick 
Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software 
and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't 
really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it 
go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially 
if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and 
controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then 
compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the isolation software.

In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL 
it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500. 
Anyone interested?

Mark




At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
>That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
>time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
>slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
>motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
>outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
>Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
>perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
>to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
>Then I use toner transfer.
>
>Kerry
>
>sailingto wrote:
> > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of 
> the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a 
> homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances 
> required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost 
> several hundred bucks!
> >
> > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks 
> keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> >
> > Ken H.
> >
> >
> > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
> >
> >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> >>
> >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> >>
> >> Mark
> >>
> >>
> >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> >>
> >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> >>>
> >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> >>>
> >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> >>>
> >>> Ken H.
> >>>
> >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> >>>>
> >>> like this:
> >>>
> >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> >>>>
> >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> >>>>
> >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> >>>
> >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> >>>>
> >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> >>>
> >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> >>>>
> >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> >>>>
> >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> >>>
> >>>> Mat
> >>>>
>
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>



------------------------------------

Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links

> Have you posted pictures of your rig anywhere?
>
> On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 9:30 AM, Kerry Wentworth <
> kwentworth@...> wrote:
>
>   
>> That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
>> time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
>> slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
>> motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
>> outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
>> Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
>> perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
>> to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
>> Then I use toner transfer.
>>
>> Kerry
>>
>> --
>>     
> Erik L. Knise
> Pacific Shipping Company
> Seattle, WA
>
>

>I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the
>following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick
>Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software
>and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't
>really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it
>go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially
>if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and
>controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then
>compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the 
>isolation software.
>
>In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL
>it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500.
>Anyone interested?
>
>Mark
>
>
>
>
>At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
> >That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
> >time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
> >slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
> >motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
> >outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
> >Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
> >perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
> >to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
> >Then I use toner transfer.
> >
> >Kerry
> >
> >sailingto wrote:
> > > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of
> > the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a
> > homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances
> > required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost
> > several hundred bucks!
> > >
> > > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks
> > keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> > >
> > > Ken H.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
> > >
> > >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> > >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> > >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> > >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> > >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> > >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> > >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> > >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> > >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> > >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> > >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> > >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> > >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> > >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> > >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> > >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> > >>
> > >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> > >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> > >>
> > >> Mark
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> > >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> > >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> > >>>
> > >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> > >>>
> > >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> > >>>
> > >>> Ken H.
> > >>>
> > >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >>>
> > >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> > >>>>
> > >>> like this:
> > >>>
> > >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >>>>
> > >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> > >>>>
> > >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> > >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> > >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >>>
> > >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> > >>>>
> > >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone 
> and messy.
> > >>>
> > >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >>>>
> > >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> > >>>>
> > >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> > >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >>>
> > >>>> Mat
> > >>>>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

>I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the
>following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick
>Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software
>and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't
>really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it
>go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially
>if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and
>controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then
>compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the 
>isolation software.
>
>In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL
>it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500.
>Anyone interested?
>
>Mark
>
>
>
>
>At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
> >That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
> >time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
> >slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
> >motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
> >outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
> >Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
> >perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
> >to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
> >Then I use toner transfer.
> >
> >Kerry
> >
> >sailingto wrote:
> > > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of
> > the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a
> > homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances
> > required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost
> > several hundred bucks!
> > >
> > > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks
> > keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> > >
> > > Ken H.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
> > >
> > >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> > >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> > >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> > >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> > >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> > >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> > >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> > >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> > >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> > >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> > >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> > >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> > >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> > >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> > >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> > >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> > >>
> > >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> > >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> > >>
> > >> Mark
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> > >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> > >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> > >>>
> > >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> > >>>
> > >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> > >>>
> > >>> Ken H.
> > >>>
> > >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >>>
> > >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> > >>>>
> > >>> like this:
> > >>>
> > >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >>>>
> > >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> > >>>>
> > >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> > >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> > >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >>>
> > >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> > >>>>
> > >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone 
> and messy.
> > >>>
> > >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >>>>
> > >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> > >>>>
> > >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> > >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >>>
> > >>>> Mat
> > >>>>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

>
> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though 
> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an 
> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be 
> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy, 
> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board 
> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill 
> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360 
> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also 
> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for 
> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's 
> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they 
> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while 
> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that 
> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely 
> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting 
> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> 
> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in 
> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> 
> Mark
> 
> 
> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> >Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion 
> >going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it 
> >sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> >
> >Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> >
> >It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> >
> >Ken H.
> >
> >--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >
> > > I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something 
> > like this:
> > >
> > > http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >
> > > To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool 
> > for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg 
> > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this 
> > type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >
> > > I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype 
> > boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> > >
> > > Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >
> > > One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying 
> > some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of 
> > polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >
> > > Mat
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>

>
> I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the 
> following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick 
> Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software 
> and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't 
> really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it 
> go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially 
> if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and 
> controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then 
> compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the isolation software.
> 
> In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL 
> it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500. 
> Anyone interested?
> 
> Mark
> 
> 
> 
> 
> At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
> >That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
> >time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
> >slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
> >motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
> >outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
> >Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
> >perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
> >to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
> >Then I use toner transfer.
> >
> >Kerry
> >
> >sailingto wrote:
> > > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of 
> > the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a 
> > homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances 
> > required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost 
> > several hundred bucks!
> > >
> > > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks 
> > keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> > >
> > > Ken H.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@> wrote:
> > >
> > >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> > >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> > >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> > >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> > >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> > >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> > >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> > >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> > >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> > >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> > >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> > >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> > >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> > >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> > >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> > >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> > >>
> > >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> > >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> > >>
> > >> Mark
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> > >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> > >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> > >>>
> > >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> > >>>
> > >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> > >>>
> > >>> Ken H.
> > >>>
> > >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >>>
> > >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> > >>>>
> > >>> like this:
> > >>>
> > >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >>>>
> > >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> > >>>>
> > >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> > >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> > >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >>>
> > >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> > >>>>
> > >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> > >>>
> > >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >>>>
> > >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> > >>>>
> > >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> > >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >>>
> > >>>> Mat
> > >>>>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>

>
> Mark,
>   I would love to play with that toy I'm putting my dibs on it. I am in CA, san jose
> Please PM me 
> Thanks
> Kim
> Kim
> Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Mark Lerman <mlerman@...>
> Date: Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:00:55 
> To: <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
> Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Using a home made CNC router for pcb
>   milling?
> 
> I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the 
> following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick 
> Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software 
> and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't 
> really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it 
> go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially 
> if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and 
> controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then 
> compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the isolation software.
> 
> In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL 
> it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500. 
> Anyone interested?
> 
> Mark
> 
> 
> 
> 
> At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
> >That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
> >time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
> >slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
> >motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
> >outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
> >Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
> >perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
> >to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
> >Then I use toner transfer.
> >
> >Kerry
> >
> >sailingto wrote:
> > > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of 
> > the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a 
> > homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances 
> > required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost 
> > several hundred bucks!
> > >
> > > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks 
> > keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> > >
> > > Ken H.
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@> wrote:
> > >
> > >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> > >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> > >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> > >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> > >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> > >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> > >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> > >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> > >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> > >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> > >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> > >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> > >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> > >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> > >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> > >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> > >>
> > >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> > >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> > >>
> > >> Mark
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> > >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> > >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> > >>>
> > >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> > >>>
> > >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> > >>>
> > >>> Ken H.
> > >>>
> > >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > >>>
> > >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> > >>>>
> > >>> like this:
> > >>>
> > >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> > >>>>
> > >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> > >>>>
> > >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> > >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> > >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > >>>
> > >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> > >>>>
> > >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> > >>>
> > >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > >>>>
> > >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> > >>>>
> > >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> > >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> > >>>
> > >>>> Mat
> > >>>>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >------------------------------------
> >
> >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>

>
> Ken,
>   I am in the same boat as you but according to my math odds of winning the 
> lotto is close to the same even if you dont buy the ticket. Having said that 
> you can get some good deals on a THK slides on ebay and build a real good 
> milling machine.
> 
> Kim

>Damn,
>
>Not quite fast enough!
>
>Mat
>
>--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@...> wrote:
> >
> > I realize that this is not a commercial group, so I hope the
> > following is not a violation of policy. I have an old T-Tech Quick
> > Circuit that I will never use again, including the isolation software
> > and dongle. I used it to get my feet wet in cnc milling, but wasn't
> > really happy with it. If anyone wants it I would be willing to let it
> > go to someone on this group for a very reasonable price, especially
> > if you could pick it up. It works just fine, I have manuals and
> > controller. I paid (foolishly) about $2500 USD for it, then
> > compounded the problem by paying another $1,000 USD for the 
> isolation software.
> >
> > In the spirit of helping someone ON THIS GROUP, who will NOT RESELL
> > it, I will give it to the first person who carts it away for $500.
> > Anyone interested?
> >
> > Mark
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > At 12:30 PM 3/18/2010, you wrote:
> > >That depends on how much junk you have around and how valuable your time
> > >time is.  I built mine from an XY table my old boss gave me, a drawer
> > >slide with a Dremel attached with hose clamps, some surplus stepper
> > >motors and samples of Allegro driver chips.  I think the only cash
> > >outlay I made was an $8 laptop so I wouldn't have to use my good one.
> > >Of course, if I wanted to mill traces, the Z axis would have to be
> > >perpendicular to X and Y, which it is not.  And more software would need
> > >to be written.  But for now, it drills my holes and cuts out the board.
> > >Then I use toner transfer.
> > >
> > >Kerry
> > >
> > >sailingto wrote:
> > > > Thank you for the response Mark - what you are saying is one of
> > > the reasons I've been hesitate to invest much money/time in a
> > > homebrew CNC mill - concern it would not hold the tolerances
> > > required for good PCB milling.  Even a home built CNC can cost
> > > several hundred bucks!
> > > >
> > > > Maybe when I win the BIG lottery I'll buy the $9K CNC :)  (Folks
> > > keep telling me I must buy a ticket before I can possibly win:(
> > > >
> > > > Ken H.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Mark Lerman <mlerman@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > >> I've been milling boards for over a year. It works very well, though
> > > >> the learning curve is a little steeper than you might think. I use an
> > > >> AccurateCNC 360, which is good enough for 10 mil traces and can be
> > > >> used for even finer traces with some care. Double sided is easy,
> > > >> drilling is a snap, and being able to mill the edges of the board
> > > >> gives a very clean cut. I'm not sure whether a simple homemade mill
> > > >> would work as well, but over a smaller area it should work. The 360
> > > >> is about 9K (I think), very pricey for the hobbiest, but it can also
> > > >> be used for milling plastic and even non ferrous metals.  Support for
> > > >> this machine is unbelievably great!! The company goes way out of it's
> > > >> way to provide support and repairs, even out of  warrantee, and they
> > > >> reply to email extremely promptly. I blew the spindle driver while
> > > >> cutting plastic, and they replaced the driver with a newer one that
> > > >> won't blow at no charge. While they had the machine, they completely
> > > >> checked the calibration and added some hardware to make cutting
> > > >> plastic and softer materials much easier. Again at no charge.
> > > >>
> > > >> The usual disclaimer - I have no financial interest whatsoever in
> > > >> their company, just a very satisfied customer.
> > > >>
> > > >> Mark
> > > >>
> > > >>
> > > >> At 08:49 PM 3/17/2010, you wrote:
> > > >>
> > > >>> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion
> > > >>> going on CNC milling of PCB.  I have been reading about it and it
> > > >>> sure sounds slick - the videos look good.
> > > >>>
> > > >>> Double sided should be a snap.  Drill holes are automated.
> > > >>>
> > > >>> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> > > >>>
> > > >>> Ken H.
> > > >>>
> > > >>> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "mat_henshall" <mat@> wrote:
> > > >>>
> > > >>>> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something
> > > >>>>
> > > >>> like this:
> > > >>>
> > > >>>> http://zentoolworks.com/
> > > >>>>
> > > >>>> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool
> > > >>>>
> > > >>> for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg
> > > >>> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this
> > > >>> type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> > > >>>
> > > >>>> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype
> > > >>>>
> > > >>> boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error 
> prone and messy.
> > > >>>
> > > >>>> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> > > >>>>
> > > >>>> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying
> > > >>>>
> > > >>> some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of
> > > >>> polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a 
> nice touch?
> > > >>>
> > > >>>> Mat
> > > >>>>
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >------------------------------------
> > >
> > >Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, 
> and Photos:
> > >http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>------------------------------------
>
>Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
>http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

>
> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something like this:
> 
> http://zentoolworks.com/
> 
> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> 
> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> 
> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> 
> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> 
> Mat
>

>
> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something like this:
> 
> http://zentoolworks.com/
> 
> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> 
> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> 
> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> 
> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> 
> Mat
>

>
> I am considering getting a small DIY 3 axis CNC router, something like this:
> 
> http://zentoolworks.com/
> 
> To, amongst other things, make PCB's with. Clearly a useful tool for drilling holes, but I have seen youtube videos (eg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFQotB1aQBQ) of people using this type of device for milling the pcb itself.
> 
> I currently use UV Sensitive PCB method for making prototype boards which is OK, but is time consuming, can be error prone and messy.
> 
> Anybody got any thoughts on milling PCB's? Good, bad the ugly?
> 
> One though that occurred to me is that after making it, spraying some form of solder resist to the board and then using some sort of polishing bit to remove the resist where needed might be a nice touch?
> 
> Mat
>

From: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com]
On Behalf Of James
Sent: 19 March 2010 1:57 p.m.
To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Using a home made CNC router for pcb milling?

 

  



--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
<mailto:Homebrew_PCBs%40yahoogroups.com> , "sailingto" <sailingtoo@...>
wrote:
>
> Well Mat - I was hoping someone would respond and get a discussion going
on CNC milling of PCB. I have been reading about it and it sure sounds slick
- the videos look good.
> 
> Double sided should be a snap. Drill holes are automated.
> 
> It all "sounds" good, but like you I'd like to know more.
> 
> Ken H.
> 
>

The hardware is the tough part, it has to be well made, sturdy and precise,
this usually means $$. If you only want to drill and not do any kind of
milling, it gets easier. The rest is easy, use a CAD program that outputs a
drill file and load that into the CNC software, TurboCNC is a common one
that you can download for free.



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>
> 
> Glad to see others have tried and some like it... 
> 
> I have decided to try the cheap route first.. I am going to pick the kit up on Saturday. Well cheap compared to $9000, as I have use for CNC router even if it doesn't pan out for traces. It gives me an easy way to get up to speed on the process and software. I'll be going Linux for the software, as I have some old laptops and desktops that can be nicely loaded with Ubuntu and give great performance. My old windoze machines just take too long to reboot once they have hung :-(