ElectronicsFabricationGuide

Electronics Fabrication Guide

Introduction

This is a simple guide for people that are new to making circuit boards or soldering.

Soldering

Before you start

Preparing surfaces

The surface we're primarily concerned with is the copper side of the board that you are about to solder, but do make sure your workbench is clear of any crud that may get in your way or adhere to the bottom of the board.

Make sure there is no grease or dirt on the copper. If you're suspicious, wipe it down with a rag and methylated spirits, acetone or similar degreaser. Do not use paper towels - they turn to fluff rapidly.

If the copper is not bright and shiny, rub with very fine silicon carbide paper, or one of those green kitchen scouring pads. You may need to clean with meths again. Allow the board to dry and put the lids on your solvents before commencing soldering.

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Making stripboard circuits

Stripboard is commonly used for making small runs of simple circuits. It has a matrix of small holes on a 2.5mm grid, connected in stripes on the reverse by lines of copper. It is readily available from electronic hobbyist suppliers worldwide. Maufacturers include Datak and Vero.

The strips on the back of the board need to be "separated" at certain points, to remove undesired connections between components placed on the board. The easiest way to do this is to use a small electric drill with a drill bit around 3-4mm in diameter. Don't drill all the way, just far enough to cut the copper tracks - you may find a 3.5mm drill in a hand-held chuck is easier to control.

If you should cut a strip in the wrong place, solder a wire jumper over the top. It is a good idea to isolate mounting holes too.

Etching PCBs

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-- Main.SimonMcAuliffe - 02 Feb 2006