Many tools are available for hobbyists who want to make their own printed circuit boards (PCBs). One of the simplest methods uses a laser printer. You create the PCB pattern using software, print it on the laser printer and transfer it to the circuit board. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, you can send the pattern to a company that can make the board for you.
Materials
To make your own printed circuits at home, first pick up a few items at a store that sells electronics parts for hobbyists. You’ll need a bottle of etchant and some blank copper-clad boards. Also, obtain some semi-glossy laser printer paper used for printing photos.
Layout
Use a software program such as Eagle Layout Editor (see Resources section) to enter the schematic information on your computer. The software automatically lays out a neat PCB pattern that you can then print or save to a file.
Preparation
Clean the copper board by scrubbing with steel wool or a Scotch-Brite pad under cold running water. Scrub until you reveal a bright, clean copper surface.
Transfer
Once the pattern is complete, print it onto the semi-glossy photo paper. Print only the traces and pads, not any part or labeling information. After it’s printed, trim away excess paper until you have a neat rectangle the size of your finished board. Place the clean copper board on a sturdy surface, copper side up. Place the paper print-side down against the board and press on it with a hot iron for at least five minutes. Press vertically and don’t let the paper slide around. The heat will cause the ink to stick to the copper. Let the board cool. Soak the board with the paper still stuck to it in soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes. Carefully peel the paper off the board. The board should have the black layout pattern on it.
Etching and Drilling
To etch the board, find a sturdy plastic or glass tray. Place the board in the tray. Pour enough etchant into the tray to cover the board to a depth of about 1/2 inch. The instructions on the etchant should indicate how much time to allow for etching. Don’t leave the board in too long, or the etchant will dissolve all the copper.
When etching is complete, you should see no exposed copper, just the black traces on the board. Under cold running water, gently scrub the ink off the board with a Scotch-Brite pad or sponge. Do not use steel wool for this part; particles can break off and cause short circuits.
You can now drill the board. Use a #68 drill bit for capacitor and resistor leads. A smaller #71 bit will drill holes for integrated circuits.
Service
If you don’t want to do your own etching, you can upload the PCB layout to a service company (see Resources section), who will etch and drill the boards for you for a nominal fee.
