Homebrew PCBs

Hi
Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5 pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know

John

On 10/02/2012 10:27, Electroniclab66 wrote:
> Hi
> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95
> for 5 pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of
> cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know

ITead Studio is very cheap - 10 off 5 cm x 5 cm for under $10. They 
typically make them in about three days, but standard postage takes 
about two weeks from China. I've used them three times and have been 
very satisfied.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

You can check Ourpcb in China.  I have used them many times.  Very good results... 
 
:-) :-)

From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@yahoo.com>
To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com 
Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 5:27:19 AM
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards


  
Hi
Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5 pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know

John




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

John,

I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I believe that included postage.

John
KC9OJV

 



________________________________

 From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@...>
To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com 
Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
 

  
Hi
Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5 pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know

John


 

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Everyone, please add your links to the folder Commercial PCB Prototypers in the Links section.

<http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBs/links/Commercial_PCB_proto_001013791255/>

Details such as what you've given hear are especially helpful.

If that link breaks, use this one to find the folder:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBs/links/

Steve Greenfield AE7HD


--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, John Greusel <greusel@...> wrote:

>
> John,
> 
> I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I believe that included postage.
> 
> John
> KC9OJV
> 
> Â 
> 
> 
> 
> ________________________________
>  From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@...>
> To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com 
> Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
> Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
>  
> 
> Â  
> Hi
> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5 pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> 
> John
> 
> 
>  
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

What software do you use?
Eagle light is 69$USD .....

Mike KC7NOA 

To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com

From: greusel@...
Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards














 



  


    
      
      
      John,



I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I believe that included postage.



John

KC9OJV



 



________________________________

 From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@...>

To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com 

Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM

Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards

 



  

Hi

Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?

Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5 pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know



John



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]






    
     

    
    






  






 		 	   		  

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Kicad is open source and completely free and much better than Eagle.

On Fri, Feb 10, 2012 at 12:54 PM, MIKE DURKIN <Patriot121@...> wrote:

> What software do you use?
> Eagle light is 69$USD .....
>
> Mike KC7NOA
>
> To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> From: greusel@...
> Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
> Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>      John,
>
>
>
> I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I
> believe that included postage.
>
>
>
> John
>
> KC9OJV
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________
>
>  From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@...>
>
> To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
>
> Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
>
> Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Hi
>
> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
>
> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5
> pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper
> boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
>
>
>
> John
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
>
>
>
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>
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>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I have tried both Eagle and KiCAD (and a couple of others) and I personally like KiCAD a lot. Not just because it's free (although that is very nice!) I just prefer how it works.

The biggest complaint I can say about KiCAD is that some of the bundled parts libraries aren't that great. But there are module generators online, and 3rd party libraries to download, and you can make your own parts very easily. There are also programs to convert Eagle libraries so it's not a huge problem.

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Rocko <sunblaster5@...> wrote:

>
> Kicad is open source and completely free and much better than Eagle.
> 
> On Fri, Feb 10, 2012 at 12:54 PM, MIKE DURKIN <Patriot121@...> wrote:
> 
> > What software do you use?
> > Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> >
> > Mike KC7NOA
> >
> > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > From: greusel@...
> > Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
> > Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >      John,
> >
> >
> >
> > I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I
> > believe that included postage.
> >
> >
> >
> > John
> >
> > KC9OJV
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > ________________________________
> >
> >  From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@...>
> >
> > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> >
> > Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
> >
> > Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Hi
> >
> > Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> >
> > Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> > board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5
> > pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper
> > boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> >
> >
> >
> > John
> >
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
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> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
> 
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the 
phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping 
service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing 
printed circuit boards?

Steve K8JQ

On 2/10/2012 6:57 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> On 10/02/2012 10:27, Electroniclab66 wrote:
>> Hi
>> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
>> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
>> board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95
>> for 5 pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of
>> cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> ITead Studio is very cheap - 10 off 5 cm x 5 cm for under $10. They
> typically make them in about three days, but standard postage takes
> about two weeks from China. I've used them three times and have been
> very satisfied.
>
> Leon

-- 
Read The Patriot Post    Vertitas vos Liberabit
http://patriotpost.us/subscription/

Presumably piecing together a bunch of separate PCB designs into one "glued
together" file to save on setup cost.

Sent from my iPad

On 2012-02-11, at 12:58 AM, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:



In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the
phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping
service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing
printed circuit boards?

Steve K8JQ

On 2/10/2012 6:57 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> On 10/02/2012 10:27, Electroniclab66 wrote:
>> Hi
>> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
>> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
>> board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95
>> for 5 pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of
>> cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me
know
> ITead Studio is very cheap - 10 off 5 cm x 5 cm for under $10. They
> typically make them in about three days, but standard postage takes
> about two weeks from China. I've used them three times and have been
> very satisfied.
>
> Leon

-- 
Read The Patriot Post Vertitas vos Liberabit
http://patriotpost.us/subscription/

 


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Eagle is still free....

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "tda7000" <Tda7000@...> wrote:

>
> I have tried both Eagle and KiCAD (and a couple of others) and I personally like KiCAD a lot. Not just because it's free (although that is very nice!) I just prefer how it works.
> 
> The biggest complaint I can say about KiCAD is that some of the bundled parts libraries aren't that great. But there are module generators online, and 3rd party libraries to download, and you can make your own parts very easily. There are also programs to convert Eagle libraries so it's not a huge problem.
> 
> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Rocko <sunblaster5@> wrote:
> >
> > Kicad is open source and completely free and much better than Eagle.
> > 
> > On Fri, Feb 10, 2012 at 12:54 PM, MIKE DURKIN <Patriot121@> wrote:
> > 
> > > What software do you use?
> > > Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> > >
> > > Mike KC7NOA
> > >
> > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > > From: greusel@
> > > Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
> > > Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >      John,
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I
> > > believe that included postage.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > John
> > >
> > > KC9OJV
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > ________________________________
> > >
> > >  From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@>
> > >
> > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > >
> > > Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
> > >
> > > Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Hi
> > >
> > > Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> > >
> > > Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> > > board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95 for 5
> > > pcs  2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper
> > > boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > John
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > ------------------------------------
> > >
> > > Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> > > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > 
> > 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>

For newbies, I felt that KiCad seemed bit more intimidating, compared to
Eagle.
Some of the things where I fumbled and struggled (and still doing so), with
KiCad were...

1. It's not-so-familiar mechanism of drawing wires. I mean, quite different
from other generic drawing software UI style.
2. Searching for parts (even when it was in library), was a rather
hit-or-miss thing. With some obvious keywords, I couldn't find basic parts.
3. Switching between Schematic editor, and PCB/layout editor -- I was
expecting changes, parts footprints to show up on their own, but I didn't
quite get the hang of the right workflow.

... but then, for me, this was a rather giant leap from breadboard+Arduino
to something more real and down-n-dirty (or nice-n-shiny -- as one prefers).

On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 5:59 AM, dubob4432 <dubob4432@...> wrote:

> **
>
>
> Eagle is still free....
>
>
> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "tda7000" <Tda7000@...> wrote:
> >
> > I have tried both Eagle and KiCAD (and a couple of others) and I
> personally like KiCAD a lot. Not just because it's free (although that is
> very nice!) I just prefer how it works.
> >
> > The biggest complaint I can say about KiCAD is that some of the bundled
> parts libraries aren't that great. But there are module generators online,
> and 3rd party libraries to download, and you can make your own parts very
> easily. There are also programs to convert Eagle libraries so it's not a
> huge problem.
> >
> > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Rocko <sunblaster5@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Kicad is open source and completely free and much better than Eagle.
> > >
> > > On Fri, Feb 10, 2012 at 12:54 PM, MIKE DURKIN <Patriot121@> wrote:
> > >
> > > > What software do you use?
> > > > Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> > > >
> > > > Mike KC7NOA
> > > >
> > > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > > > From: greusel@
> > > > Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
> > > > Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > John,
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I
> > > > believe that included postage.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > John
> > > >
> > > > KC9OJV
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > ________________________________
> > > >
> > > > From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@>
> > > >
> > > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > > >
> > > > Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
> > > >
> > > > Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Hi
> > > >
> > > > Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> > > >
> > > > Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> > > > board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost
> 37.95 for 5
> > > > pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper
> > > > boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > John
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > ------------------------------------
> > > >
> > > > Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and
> Photos:
> > > > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> >
>
>  
>



-- 
regards,
Banibrata
http://www.linkedin.com/in/bdutta
http://twitter.com/edgeliving


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Steve,
Benjamin is correct regarding "panelizing", unlike expresspcb most will not allow different "small PCBs" to be grouped together on one large board which you can "cut out" after they are produced. expresspcb will allow this, but they are quite a bit more expensive.
David

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:

>
> In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the 
> phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping 
> service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing 
> printed circuit boards?
> 
> Steve K8JQ
> 
> On 2/10/2012 6:57 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> > On 10/02/2012 10:27, Electroniclab66 wrote:
> >> Hi
> >> Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> >> Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> >> board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost 37.95
> >> for 5 pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of
> >> cheaper boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> > ITead Studio is very cheap - 10 off 5 cm x 5 cm for under $10. They
> > typically make them in about three days, but standard postage takes
> > about two weeks from China. I've used them three times and have been
> > very satisfied.
> >
> > Leon
> 
> -- 
> Read The Patriot Post    Vertitas vos Liberabit
> http://patriotpost.us/subscription/
>

Has anyone tried TARGET3001, [from Germany] its free with comprehensive libraries, plenty of user libraries available too, and can import eagle files, its very very simple to use with schematic/pcb intergration and several autorouter programs, I've used it for several years now with excellent results. I am not associated with them in any way.
David

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Banibrata Dutta <banibrata.dutta@...> wrote:

>
> For newbies, I felt that KiCad seemed bit more intimidating, compared to
> Eagle.
> Some of the things where I fumbled and struggled (and still doing so), with
> KiCad were...
> 
> 1. It's not-so-familiar mechanism of drawing wires. I mean, quite different
> from other generic drawing software UI style.
> 2. Searching for parts (even when it was in library), was a rather
> hit-or-miss thing. With some obvious keywords, I couldn't find basic parts.
> 3. Switching between Schematic editor, and PCB/layout editor -- I was
> expecting changes, parts footprints to show up on their own, but I didn't
> quite get the hang of the right workflow.
> 
> ... but then, for me, this was a rather giant leap from breadboard+Arduino
> to something more real and down-n-dirty (or nice-n-shiny -- as one prefers).
> 
> On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 5:59 AM, dubob4432 <dubob4432@...> wrote:
> 
> > **
> >
> >
> > Eagle is still free....
> >
> >
> > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "tda7000" <Tda7000@> wrote:
> > >
> > > I have tried both Eagle and KiCAD (and a couple of others) and I
> > personally like KiCAD a lot. Not just because it's free (although that is
> > very nice!) I just prefer how it works.
> > >
> > > The biggest complaint I can say about KiCAD is that some of the bundled
> > parts libraries aren't that great. But there are module generators online,
> > and 3rd party libraries to download, and you can make your own parts very
> > easily. There are also programs to convert Eagle libraries so it's not a
> > huge problem.
> > >
> > > --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Rocko <sunblaster5@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Kicad is open source and completely free and much better than Eagle.
> > > >
> > > > On Fri, Feb 10, 2012 at 12:54 PM, MIKE DURKIN <Patriot121@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > > What software do you use?
> > > > > Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> > > > >
> > > > > Mike KC7NOA
> > > > >
> > > > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > > > > From: greusel@
> > > > > Date: Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:24:10 -0800
> > > > > Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > John,
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I
> > > > > believe that included postage.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > John
> > > > >
> > > > > KC9OJV
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > ________________________________
> > > > >
> > > > > From: Electroniclab66 <electroniclab66@>
> > > > >
> > > > > To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
> > > > >
> > > > > Sent: Friday, February 10, 2012 4:27 AM
> > > > >
> > > > > Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Hi
> > > > >
> > > > > Does someone here know of a very cheap PCB board producer?
> > > > >
> > > > > Sometimes I need more than 1 pcs and then it is much work to make the
> > > > > board self. I have used boards from ...link removed... The cost
> > 37.95 for 5
> > > > > pcs 2 layer boards max size 50x50mm. If some one here know of cheaper
> > > > > boards, I could use single sided in some cases, please let me know
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > John
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > ------------------------------------
> > > > >
> > > > > Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and
> > Photos:
> > > > > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > >
> > >
> >
> >  
> >
> 
> 
> 
> -- 
> regards,
> Banibrata
> http://www.linkedin.com/in/bdutta
> http://twitter.com/edgeliving
> 
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

On 10/02/2012 20:54, MIKE DURKIN wrote:
> What software do you use?
> Eagle light is 69$USD .....

DesignSpark from RS Components is free, and is much easier to use than 
Eagle.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

On 10/02/2012 23:58, Steve wrote:
> In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the
> phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping
> service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing
> printed circuit boards?

They mean that you can't combine different boards on the same order.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

On 11/02/2012 00:29, dubob4432 wrote:
> Eagle is still free....

Only for small, non-commercial, boards.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

I've used Target for several years some time ago. It's fine for
reasonably simple stuff, comparable to Eagle in functionality but with
a much more intuitive user interface.

I would definitely evaluate DesignSpark and Target3001, you'll see why
you don't really want to use Eagle.

And please don't give much credit to existing libraries. They most
likely need to be changed to suit your needs, and creating new parts
should be very quick anyway or the software is crap. I don't even
check if a component is in the stock libraries, not worth the effort.

ST

On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 12:41 PM, David <dgh2259@...> wrote:
> Has anyone tried TARGET3001, [from Germany] its free with comprehensive libraries, plenty of user libraries available too, and can import eagle files, its very very simple to use with schematic/pcb intergration and several autorouter programs, I've used it for several years now with excellent results. I am not associated with them in any way.
> David

Thanks several of you for those explanations of "panelize." Very helpful.

Allow me to push my luck with two more newbie questions.

The itead studio web site has a line on their one of their PCB 
Prototyping pages which reads "*Drills line and long slot can\ufffdt be 
accepted."* I've seen similar constraints on other web sites.

What is a "drills line"?

What is a "long slot"?

Thanks for bearing with me.

Steve K8JQ

On 2/11/2012 7:13 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> On 10/02/2012 23:58, Steve wrote:
>> In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the
>> phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping
>> service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing
>> printed circuit boards?
> They mean that you can't combine different boards on the same order.
>
> Leon

-- 
Read The Patriot Post    Vertitas vos Liberabit
http://patriotpost.us/subscription/

probably like using drill holes like perforations you can snap apart.

On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 8:01 AM, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:
> Thanks several of you for those explanations of "panelize." Very helpful.
>
> Allow me to push my luck with two more newbie questions.
>
> The itead studio web site has a line on their one of their PCB
> Prototyping pages which reads "*Drills line and long slot can’t be
> accepted."* I've seen similar constraints on other web sites.
>
> What is a "drills line"?
>
> What is a "long slot"?
>
> Thanks for bearing with me.
>
> Steve K8JQ
>
> On 2/11/2012 7:13 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
>> On 10/02/2012 23:58, Steve wrote:
>>> In the process of looking at the ITead Studio web site, I find the
>>> phrase "no panelizing" on a page describing the company's prototyping
>>> service. What is the meaning of "panelize" in the context of producing
>>> printed circuit boards?
>> They mean that you can't combine different boards on the same order.
>>
>> Leon
>
> --
> Read The Patriot Post    Vertitas vos Liberabit
> http://patriotpost.us/subscription/
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

:
>
> Eagle is still free....

yes I use a small licenced eagle, its the lite version.
and its that one that cost a bit money.. 69 us could be the price I payed.
it is the same as the free version.. only ,I'm allowed to use it proffesional. 

I have tried Target too.. where Eagle has a limit of 10x8 cm ,Target has no limit in area.. but have a limit of 200 pads or somthing like this. I have used Target when the area was too big for eagle lite..
I also have to try Target for simulation and have tried the 3D 
I think the 3D is seldom to much use, but it can show if you have enough space and the connectors are placed where you thought they were.
Also , I can see that Target have somthing with EMC test.. but havent tried to learn about it until now.. 
alex

Respectfully to anyone who differs but I have found the program "Diptrace" to be 
easy to use and far more so than anything else I have tried including Kicad, 
Eagle, etc., obviously a lot more usable than Orcad for the newbie.

There is a 100% free fully functional version of Diptrace limited to ~~ 200 
hundred holes or pads and two layers for download. The up-rated unlimited layers 
and pads version is reasonably priced.

If you are new to cad programs and actually need to get something done you can 
try Diptrace, and I have found that different people find different programs to 
suite their way of working and learning, so preferences are a personal matter.

________________________________

From: alex4459jopiklal44 <christiansen_alex@...>
To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sat, February 11, 2012 8:38:48 AM
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Cheap prototype PCB boards

:
>
> Eagle is still free....

yes I use a small licenced eagle, its the lite version.
and its that one that cost a bit money.. 69 us could be the price I payed.
it is the same as the free version.. only ,I'm allowed to use it proffesional. 

I have tried Target too.. where Eagle has a limit of 10x8 cm ,Target has no 
limit in area.. but have a limit of 200 pads or somthing like this. I have used 
Target when the area was too big for eagle lite..
I also have to try Target for simulation and have tried the 3D 
I think the 3D is seldom to much use, but it can show if you have enough space 
and the connectors are placed where you thought they were.
Also , I can see that Target have somthing with EMC test.. but havent tried to 
learn about it until now.. 

alex



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

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



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 9:01 AM, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:
> Thanks several of you for those explanations of "panelize." Very helpful.
>
> Allow me to push my luck with two more newbie questions.
>
> The itead studio web site has a line on their one of their PCB
> Prototyping pages which reads "*Drills line and long slot can’t be
> accepted."* I've seen similar constraints on other web sites.
>
> What is a "drills line"?
>

I guess a line of holes to snap apart boards.

 Some of these restrictions (panalize)  are there to keep you from
trying to 'get over' on them and get additional boards made at the
expense of more labor on their part.

 I have done several designs with ITEAD that had multiple (identical)
small boards that fit within the design dimension restraints. As long
as you are willing to do the work and cut the boards apart yourself
they don't seem to care what you do with the pcb area you purchased.

 On one board that I had made recently,  I had three identical copies,
 ITEAD even added snap apart grove lines to the board without my
asking. They obviously inferred my intent. This was very helpful, and
not a service they even offer. I really appreciated it, but it also
highlights the fact (and I've seen this with other cheap pcb houses)
that they are pretty quick to make modification to your gerbers if it
improves things (in their opinion). Some people may have problems with
that.

 I've been extremely happy with ITEAD (and SEED studio) and highly
recommend the service. Just don't push the limits too hard.

 -carl

I've used them, too, and highly recommend them.  They sent me 12 boards rather than 10, I guess as a bonus. With their standard and very cheap processing, they electrically check 50% of the boards and mark them as such. Also, from my emails to them, they seem to be fluent in English unlike many Chinese sources for various things I've dealt with.

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, John Greusel <greusel@...> wrote:

>
> John,
> 
> I just bought 10- 50x50 mm boards from SeeedStudio.com for $14- and I believe that included postage.
> 
> John
> KC9OJV

I've used the freeware Eagle primarily because of the libraries available, but I'm open to something better if I can still have those libraries and not have the 3" x 4" board size limitation of freeware Eagle.  Can you please provide links to what you feel are the best KiCAD library creation/conversion related freeware and other supplemental software for KiCAD?  And on the KiCAD page, I see no mention of board size limitations.  Is that correct?

Thanks.

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "tda7000" <Tda7000@...> wrote:

>
> I have tried both Eagle and KiCAD (and a couple of others) and I personally like KiCAD a lot. Not just because it's free (although that is very nice!) I just prefer how it works.
> 
> The biggest complaint I can say about KiCAD is that some of the bundled parts libraries aren't that great. But there are module generators online, and 3rd party libraries to download, and you can make your own parts very easily. There are also programs to convert Eagle libraries so it's not a huge problem.

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "sheldon_mp_cooper" <bigbazinga@...> wrote:
> And on the KiCAD page, I see no mention of board size limitations.  Is that correct?

Yes, that is correct, and it is one of the major reasons I went with KiCAD from the start. No limitations whatsoever ... and I like the FOSS philosophy!

I have not used other programs at all, so I don't know how much easier or harder KiCAD is to learn. I do agree that there is a bit of a learning curve, but it didn't take too long; IIRC, I was up and going within a day. Be sure to work through the very helpful tutorial(s) available on-line.

There are also a number of libraries available on-line, but like Stefan, I usually just make my own parts, and my own package outlines (these are separate in KiCAD -- you can use, for example, a 74LS part, and then separately decide whether it will be 14-pin DIP or SMD or ???) It is quick and easy to make your own parts and packages, and this lets me specify exactly what I want in terms of pad sizes, silkscreen placement, etc. Once you've designed a part and/or package, save it in a library and use it from then on.

On 11/02/2012 14:01, Steve wrote:
> Thanks several of you for those explanations of "panelize." Very helpful.
>
> Allow me to push my luck with two more newbie questions.
>
> The itead studio web site has a line on their one of their PCB
> Prototyping pages which reads "*Drills line and long slot can\ufffdt be
> accepted."* I've seen similar constraints on other web sites.
>
> What is a "drills line"?
>
> What is a "long slot"?

A line of overlapping drills is one way of creating a slot. I think it 
has to be finished off with a file. Board manufacturers don't like them 
because they can break their drills.

They probably have a maximum slot length in their spec.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

On 11/02/2012 15:18, H. Carl Ott wrote:

>
>   I've been extremely happy with ITEAD (and SEED studio) and highly
> recommend the service. Just don't push the limits too hard.

They use the same board supplier. They claim 6 mil minimum track width, 
but I wouldn't go below 8 mil. ITead doesn't recommend 6 mil.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

On 11/02/2012 15:35, sheldon_mp_cooper wrote:
> I've used them, too, and highly recommend them. They sent me 12 boards
> rather than 10, I guess as a bonus. With their standard and very cheap
> processing, they electrically check 50% of the boards and mark them as
> such. Also, from my emails to them, they seem to be fluent in English
> unlike many Chinese sources for various things I've dealt with.

ITead supplied me with a couple extra with my orders, as well.

Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM

I see, I use eagle for my own hobby stuff and all of my boards are very small, smt boards which I hand route myself.  also, same w/ making my own footprints, after you do 10 or so in eagle, you are g2g, so like others, I don't even look for footprints anymore, I just make my own per the data sheet.

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "alex4459jopiklal44" <christiansen_alex@...> wrote:

>
> :
> >
> > Eagle is still free....
> 
> yes I use a small licenced eagle, its the lite version.
> and its that one that cost a bit money.. 69 us could be the price I payed.
> it is the same as the free version.. only ,I'm allowed to use it proffesional. 
> 
> I have tried Target too.. where Eagle has a limit of 10x8 cm ,Target has no limit in area.. but have a limit of 200 pads or somthing like this. I have used Target when the area was too big for eagle lite..
> I also have to try Target for simulation and have tried the 3D 
> I think the 3D is seldom to much use, but it can show if you have enough space and the connectors are placed where you thought they were.
> Also , I can see that Target have somthing with EMC test.. but havent tried to learn about it until now.. 
> alex
>

Simulation works well in Target.
I have not tried 3D other than looking at the example.
Forget EMC and thermal analysis, it is useless in my opinion.

ST

On Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 3:38 PM, alex4459jopiklal44
<christiansen_alex@...> wrote:

> I have tried Target too.. where Eagle has a limit of 10x8 cm ,Target has no limit in area.. but have a limit of 200 pads or somthing like this. I have used Target when the area was too big for eagle lite..
> I also have to try Target for simulation and have tried the 3D
> I think the 3D is seldom to much use, but it can show if you have enough space and the connectors are placed where you thought they were.
> Also , I can see that Target have somthing with EMC test.. but havent tried to learn about it until now..
> alex
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

Leon,

I looked a the  DesignSpark web page, I have some interest in the 
product. Is there an email reflector group such as this one for DesignSpark?

The DesignSpark web page paints a rosy picture of a very functional 
tool. Your recommendation reinforces that idea. Developing and 
maintaining such a product surely entails substantial costs. Wonder how 
RS Components justifies the expenditure and/or makes their money back?

Thanks.

Steve K8JQ

On 2/11/2012 7:08 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> On 10/02/2012 20:54, MIKE DURKIN wrote:
>> What software do you use?
>> Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> DesignSpark from RS Components is free, and is much easier to use than
> Eagle.
>
> Leon

-- 
Read The Patriot Post    Vertitas vos Liberabit
http://patriotpost.us/subscription/

They recoup some of it by having their parts in the library.  The bill of materials (BOM) that is generated by default gives RS component part numbers, so it is easy to buy from them.

Donald.
--
*Plain Text* email -- it's an accessibility issue
()  no proprietary attachments; no html mail
/\  ascii ribbon campaign - <www.asciiribbon.org>

----- Original Message -----

> From: "Steve" <steve65@...>
> To: "Homebrew PCBs" <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Sunday, February 12, 2012 7:52:35 PM
> Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Cheap prototype PCB boards
> Leon,
> 
> I looked a the DesignSpark web page, I have some interest in the
> product. Is there an email reflector group such as this one for
> DesignSpark?
> 
> The DesignSpark web page paints a rosy picture of a very functional
> tool. Your recommendation reinforces that idea. Developing and
> maintaining such a product surely entails substantial costs. Wonder
> how
> RS Components justifies the expenditure and/or makes their money back?
> 
> Thanks.
> 
> Steve K8JQ
> 
> On 2/11/2012 7:08 AM, Leon Heller wrote:
> > On 10/02/2012 20:54, MIKE DURKIN wrote:
> >> What software do you use?
> >> Eagle light is 69$USD .....
> > DesignSpark from RS Components is free, and is much easier to use
> > than
> > Eagle.
> >
> > Leon
> 
> --
> Read The Patriot Post Vertitas vos Liberabit
> http://patriotpost.us/subscription/
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> Be sure to visit the group home and check for new Links, Files, and
> Photos:
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Homebrew_PCBsYahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
>

Steve,

Checkout the Picaxe site,

http://www.picaxe.com/Getting-Started/Create-Designing-a-PCB

DesignSpark is integrated with their PICAXE Circuit Creator functionality.

Baxter 

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Steve <steve65@...> wrote:

>
> Leon,
> 
> I looked a the  DesignSpark web page, I have some interest in the 
> product. Is there an email reflector group such as this one for DesignSpark?
> 
> The DesignSpark web page paints a rosy picture of a very functional 
> tool. Your recommendation reinforces that idea. Developing and 
> maintaining such a product surely entails substantial costs. Wonder how 
> RS Components justifies the expenditure and/or makes their money back?
> 
> Thanks.
> 
> Steve K8JQ
>

On 13/02/2012 00:52, Steve wrote:
> Leon,
>
> I looked a the DesignSpark web page, I have some interest in the
> product. Is there an email reflector group such as this one for DesignSpark?

There is this Q and A page on the DS web site:

http://www.designspark.com/questions_and_answers

but many questions don't seem to get answered.

>
> The DesignSpark web page paints a rosy picture of a very functional
> tool. Your recommendation reinforces that idea. Developing and
> maintaining such a product surely entails substantial costs. Wonder how
> RS Components justifies the expenditure and/or makes their money back?

RS did it because their main competitor, Farnell, bought CADsoft/Eagle. 
RS paid Westdev, who produce Easy-PC and Pulsonix, to develop it. 
Advanced Circuits in the USA did the same thing a few years ago. It 
probably didn't cost them very much.

I don't actually like DS very much, although I used Easy-PC, on which it 
is based, for many years, because I'm so used to Pulsonix. People using 
DS for their designs seem to like it.


Leon
-- 
Leon Heller
G1HSM