A printed circuit board, or PCB, is at the heart of almost every electronic device. Beginning electronic hobbyists will often elect to use specially constructed project boards called breadboards rather than fabricate a PCB. Breadboards are reusable and make assembling simple projects a quick, straightforward process. For more complex projects or when looks and size count, a PCB is the best option.
Instructions
1 Draw the circuit onto the copper-clad side of circuit board with a masking pen. The masking pen protects the copper underneath the ink from the corrosive effects of the etching fluid. Check for skips or breaks in the masking line when the drawing is finished.
2 Put on gloves and safety glasses. Pour enough etching fluid into the container to cover the circuit board.
3 Set the circuit board, face up, into the container. Tilt the container periodically to gently agitate the etching fluid. Leave the circuit board in the etching fluid until the copper is completely removed from the substrate.
4 Remove the circuit board from the etching fluid. Rinse under running water to remove the remaining etching fluid. Dry the circuit board with a clean cloth.
5 Wet a clean cloth with acetone or alcohol and clean the pen marks from the remaining copper.
6 Use a drill to make mounting points for the components. In most cases, the components will be placed on the blank side of the board with the leads sticking through the bottom, traced side. Soldering the component leads in place will complete the traced circuits.
