hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
0.2mm Thick FR4 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ehughes
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2015, 12:53:02 pm
content: Has anyone worked with 0.2mm (0.0079") material for constructing a 2 layer PCB?Any general comments on work ability, etc?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 23, 2015, 01:16:39 pm
content: Yes, you typically just ask the manufacturer to use a "prepreg" layer as the actual board.They are crazy flexible!There might be some manufacturing limitations compared to normal thickness boards, but I don't recall off-hand.Of course you will need flat base holders if you are going to get stuff PnP'ed on it.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2015, 02:41:40 pm
content: Thickness of copper is probably one restriction; they might limit it to 1/2 or 1 oz. Also don't expect great flatness / warpage specs, especially if you're careless with your copper balance (more copper on one layer). Which may preclude the use of high-planarity parts like QFNs. Using very small footprints should help.Tim

author: ehughes
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2015, 01:01:35 pm
content: Thanks for the response.The manufacturer in particular is Myro. Ideally I would like the circuit on a polyimide but the price is too high.I'll give it a try. I'll post the results.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 25, 2015, 04:38:25 am
content: We make multilayer boards using 0.2mm FR4 double sided core material.Material is mechanically milled prior to pressing and there in general are no issues in processing it.We also use the material to fabricate solder paste stencils. Granted it is a bit too thick for this sort of work but it does produce reasonable stencils for coarser work ( 0805 cubics ) and will do a passable job down to 0603 but has difficulties in maintaining 0402 solder paste volumes.Be aware FR4 is a bit more fragile ( if overstressed than mylar ).

author: Jeroen3
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 25, 2015, 06:52:18 am
content: You might want to add some meandering to reduce stress on traces because it is flexible.
Element14 PCB prototyping and assembly services - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2015, 12:21:07 am
content: Got an email today that included this link:http://www.element14.com/community/community/pcb_prototypingSeems they have partnered with a couple of fabricators and assembly companies. Prices are not the best deal out there but I thought I shared the link.Manufacturing & Fabrication:Sunstone Features100% On-Time GuaranteeBoard orders in 24 hours to weeksSpecialists in short turn times and complex builds100% Made in the USA24/7/365 Live Customer SupportBoards as low as $28The choice of ProfessionalsPentalogix FeaturesRigid, Flex, and Rigid FlexQuickTurn Prototype PCBs (1-2 days)Mil-Spec & ITAR compliant boardsOffshore PCBs (Best Prices)Smart DFM — Free design file checkOnline quoting and ordering systemState-of-the-art facilitiesAssembly Services:PCB Assembly Express- Best prices- Flexibility - US and Offshore assemblies- Basic thru hole to fine pitch BGA- Students/Hobbyist are welcomePCB Assembly Express with its state-of-the-art US and Offshore PCB assembly facilities is able to deliver high quality assembled PCBs as fast as 24 hours at the best prices.Screaming Circuits- Fastest possible service- High reliability projects- Complex or projects of a critical natureBacked by 50 years of electronic assembly experience, Screaming Circuits can assemble virtually any component onto virtually any PC board in our own Oregon, USA facilities. No NRE, no contracts required, no hidden fees and guaranteed turn-times.

author: matseng
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2015, 01:42:47 pm
content: They are definitely geolocating the user to select the fab(s). I'm currently in Bangkok and get this:Quote
Oversized (750mm/30" long) PCB Manufacturer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: LightBlue
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 24, 2015, 05:37:28 pm
content: I need to find a PCB manufacturer capable of making a 750mm x 12mm PCB (0.8mm rigid, 4-layer, 2oz, polyimide).It's for a very niche application and I have been working with a manufacturer that has this capability. After several months of mechanical design effort, we were ready to buy the PCB and the price suddenly went up by a factor of 6...My preference would be a UK-based manufacturer or a European-based manufacturer.

author: Scrts
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2015, 05:11:38 pm
content: Check withhttp://www.pcbbaltic.lt/We've made around 500mm length boards with them.

author: LightBlue
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 05, 2015, 07:42:26 pm
content: Quote from: Scrts on April 26, 2015, 05:11:38 pmThanks for your reply. For the benefit of other people, this is what I have found:I found a company in the UK calledRushPCBthat can manufacture my boards. I've got a 2 weeks to wait now to see how they turn out.Thalesin the Netherlands have the capability to make large boards but I haven't had a quote back yet. I got some excellent advice and help fromTrackwisewho can do panels up to 2.8m (DSNPTH) and specialise in microwave and radio frequency PCBs.Not many manufacturers have suitably large high-temperature presses that are required to make multilayer Polyimide PCBs.
Inventory Management - Parts In Place - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2015, 01:08:11 pm
content: I have been asked to devise an inventory management solution for a small electronics manufacturer. I found an interesting applicaiton called Parts In Place that seems to fulfill our rather low-end needs. Please share your experiences with it or a similar product. Thanks in advance!

author: H.O
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2015, 10:01:37 am
content: Looks to me like it's an online application where you store YOUR data on THEIR servers. Is that what you're looking for?If I'm mistaken or you're perfectly OK with that then please disregard this post

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2015, 01:21:33 am
content: That, specifically, is not an issue. After all, a BOM without intent is just a pile of parts. The IP is in the software.It won't work for me as I would like to have a multi-level BOM - hierarchies are not supported in PIP.com.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2015, 06:27:15 am
content: Have a look atwww.unisoft-cim.com( Rich La Rue is the fellows name )No connection with them. Have considered their offering but have not been able to justify the costs. Your case may be different.In the mean time I am looking at Filemaker to set up the inventory. File maker will handle flat and relational databases and will contain both text and multimedia.Lower in cost, costlier in time.
Madell Reflow ovens - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2015, 04:47:40 pm
content: I'm currently in the market for a better reflow oven. I'll be upgrading from the Chinese T-962A. I've done some firmware and hardware upgrades on it but I just keep having the issue of having cold spots that I would end up needing to touch stuff up with an iron afterwards.I found this guy on ebay:http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMT-Reflow-Soldering-Oven-Madell-QHL320A-for-PCB-Motherboards-Xbox-360-PS3-/231531424993?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35e8592ce1I'm curious if anyone has any experience with the brand and/or the specific model. I noticed that they also sell a re-branded version of the T-962A, which doesn't instill confidence. But this model using a combination of convection and reflow so it might suit me well.

author: rx8pilot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2015, 05:41:34 pm
content: I am not specifically familiar with that model but it appears to be an IR design with fans. In general, I have not seen one of those able to heat evenly. It is also limited to 260C which is not quite enough for lead-free solder. Every time I look a Maddell, I get the feeling the quality is barely passable. Just an opinion based on what I see and read on the internet - never actually owning one. The oven is such a critical part of the process - I decided to get one that was able to give me predicable and perfect results.Keep in mind, the oven can kill a PCB at the very end of the process when you 'think' you are done. For hobby purposes, you can get away with a fiddly oven - not sure what you are doing.I have a convection batch oven (JEM-310) that goes to 300c and that is just enough to get it done for lead-free. In a convection oven, the heat is generated outside of the PCB chamber and blown in with fans. It is rather nice in terms of heat distribution and controls. The display allows very easy programming and monitoring. The best feature is the big insulated window on top allows a continuous view of the PCB as is goes through a cycle. You can see what flows first and last which allows you to get a profile worked out very quickly for different paste and PCB's.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2015, 01:59:51 am
content: I have a conveyorised Automation production systems GF12 leadfree oven. Ok for small product, low thermal load and low component mix. Conveyor width 300 mm.I had a 180 x 400mm low component count low component thermal load board going through it. Did discover that despite it being a convection ( fan forced ) oven it gig have a cool spot on the board.Cranking up the setpoint a tad cleared that issue.I am in the process of putting together a vapor phase oven which I expect will provide better performance.Hope to have it completed in a fortnight.Do consider vapor phase process, a fellow in the vapor phase oven thread has done it using a vegetable steamer with what looks like excellent results.
Ebay: PnP Machine in Australia - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 08, 2015, 02:28:11 pm
content: Quite rare that PnP machines come up in Oz:http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Pick-and-Place-Machine-Zevatech-PM570L-/221738356126?

author: TSL
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2015, 07:35:11 am
content: And if you look at his other items for sale he has a belt fed re-flow oven and stencil printer!cheersTim

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 09, 2015, 11:14:07 am
content: Quote from: TSL on April 09, 2015, 07:35:11 amOh yeah, sweet. If I had a big enough space with 3 phase power I'll be temped to get it all just for fun and games

author: M4trix
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2015, 06:31:45 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 13, 2015, 04:54:27 pmYeah, 4,900 bucks for the machine and another 4000 bucks for shipping.
Elecrow now does large orders of 50+ PCBs by AREA not edge dimensions! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: metalphreak
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 08, 2015, 09:17:09 pm
content: http://www.elecrow.com/services-c-73.htmlhttp://www.elecrow.com/download/Readme%20before%20ordering%20PCB%20online%20V1.2.pdfCheck out the new options for 50 pcbs or higher. They now do HASL lead free as an option (zero extra cost) as well as ENIG (more expensive). Lead free previously wasn't an option for the "production volume" services.Biggest news: You pay for the sq. cm of your board, not the external dimensions. So the previous 5x5cm option is now 25cm^2, meaning you can do something like a 6x4cm board without having to pay more for the 5x10cm option. Or an 11x2cm without paying heaps more for 15x5cm option.The whole panelisation thing might get a bit confusing depending on what you want to do, but you can always ask. If you pay for 50pcs of 25cm^2, and they let you (or you let them) panelise as many single designs that will fit on 1250cm^2, that would beawesome. However, it may just be they'll make some panels for you of 50 boards total that are under 25cm^2 each which I think is the case. You can always pay extra to have multiple designs within that 25cm2 on your panel.blog link below explains it better. You need to choose the sq.cm of the panel you want, and they'll make 50 of that panel. If your panel has multiple of the same design, it's free.Also of interest, chatting in the #EEVBLOG irc channel, it appears that as of November, elecrow is no longer printing production tracking codes on peoples pcbs silkscreen. My last set of boards from around then does not have anything on them which is awesome. Can anyone else confirm? EDIT: nvm see "no serial" herehttp://www.elecrow.com/blog/pcb-service-upgrading-ii/

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2015, 03:19:20 am
content: that's Great!But, now that they have done that, I repriced the cost for my stuff that I priced out two weeks ago. It seems, they have raised their prices by a lot. for 20cm x 20cm gold 4 pcb styles, and a stencil WAS $1500 a couple weeks ago. Now it is almost $2000.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 09, 2015, 07:25:54 am
content: Quote from: Falcon69 on January 09, 2015, 03:19:20 amAlways send them your zip files by email & ask for a price based on the exact board size. The cost will be less than the automated price worked out on their website.There are cheaper providers in China these days. You just have to watch the quality.Who else would other forum members recommend - good pricing & good quality out of China?

author: Christopher
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2015, 04:28:34 pm
content: My "local" supplier does 4/4 which is perfect for 0402 and tssop.Has anyone got any examples of China manufacturers with similar ish specs?I've had a few boards made with soic 12 thou from china and I was worried about that...
Please Remove - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 6E5
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2014, 02:25:56 am
content: I want to get one or two boards done as a prototype, a test trial. I don't need 10 of them, and they don't have to be that great quality. What are my options in the plethora of PCB makers?EDIT: Discovered a source. Disregard.

author: 6E5
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2014, 02:27:46 am
content: Actually, nevermind, I just discovered pcbshopper.com. Mods, please delete this
Can someone help a PCB noob?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thomieboy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 10:26:34 pm
content: Hello everybody!I'm Thomas an electronic student in Belgium (17 years old).Here in belgium when you are in your last year secondary school, you have to make a big project.This year it is a weather station. I'm already looking around what I'll need or how I'm going to do things.Everything is almost sorted out, but there is one big gap in my plan... the pcb.In school we have a rotor cnc thing, where I can make a single prototype, but for the final one it has to be a "real" one.Via my school I can let them be made but they are cheap looking and even ugly. I would like black or just any colour solder mask.I think it will be double sided too.My question:What is the cheapest way to get 3 (or more) pieces of my pcb design (Made in eagle) in my hands?So, they will be around 10cmx6cm, with solder mask, double sided.It's not really that urgent, I can wait a month. Already drilled holes would be very nice.Ooh, and shipped to BelgiumIf anybody can help me or send me in the right direction, I would be very happy!Thanks in advance!!

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 11:14:52 pm
content: Lots of links here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/manufacture/cheap-pcbs-for-really-low-volume/

author: NegativeONE
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 11:35:19 pm
content: Recently I ordered PCB in China in companyElecrowand quality to price is very good. It take 20 days from placing the order to get the boards in my hand in Poland. They also provide DRC and CAM files for Eagle. You should check them out.

author: fww
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2014, 07:24:26 am
content: This PCB online shop package for your reference.It's meet RHOS, IPC-A-600F, ISO9001 compatible, with Free Shipping via UPS or DHL.Prototype PCB Boards Package ( 5 PCS, 2 Layers,160 X 100 mm )$139.00http://www.nexpcb.com/collections/all-products/products/prototype-pcb-boards-package-2-layersIf you panel board by yourself , you will get 10 pcs.

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2014, 01:21:45 am
content: I've had a lot of success with iTead.http://imall.iteadstudio.com/

author: thomieboy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2014, 11:32:09 am
content: Quote from: Pack34 on October 29, 2014, 01:21:45 amThank you! It looks very interesting, I think I will give this one a shot.
Photo-resistant PCB: Black Light or UV? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: adamf
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 19, 2014, 11:07:13 pm
content: Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum and need some help with a doubt.I'm about to build a device to print my own photo-resistant PCBs at home, but before I buy the components I would like to know if the Black Light tubes the same as UV -as they are much more cheaper- and if there is much difference between both for the purpose of printing PCBs?I also heard other people saying that you can simply use any fluorescent light, or even the light of the sun. Did anyone experiment with these?Thanks for your help.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 01:09:09 am
content: Search is your friend...It would've brought up many, many threads - includingthisand other recent ones that might answer your questions.
Rigid Flex with metal Core? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2014, 06:54:46 am
content: Does anyone know or has seen Ridid Flex PCB's with a metal core ( aluminium or similar? )..I've got an application that has a bit of heat in it, and i need to get the heat out, but i also want to use flex.

author: ruffy91
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2014, 09:27:20 am
content: Copper? Has the best thermal conductivity. You can only use a single layer of metal on a flexprint otherwise the layers will tear apart when bending. You can use multiple flexprints over each other but then you will have no thermal conductivity between the layers.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2014, 05:45:04 pm
content: You can have flex boards with a PCB laminated to it. You can get most likely a flex board with the metal plate bonded as well.
Inexpensive 4 Layer PCBs with Thicker Copper Layers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: magicsmoke
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 10:11:51 pm
content: I am considering using four layer PCBs as bus bar interconnects for a multi-level inverter. Most of the relatively low cost 4 layer PCBs for prototyping quantities seem to only offer 0.5 or 1 oz copper layers? With this copper thickness it is really difficult to keep the trace width to a reasonable value that can be routed. Any ideas of prototype volume PCB manufacturers which will do thicker copper layers for cheap?

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 10:20:12 pm
content: Any nonstandard options are not going to be available on a prototype pooling service, so you will be paying all the tooling cost for your panel, so cost for a proto is going to be at least an order of magnitude more than a pooled service.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 01:17:41 am
content: What are you doing with enough current that it can't be routed? Split the current bearing traces among the four layers, bodge a high current wire or two after, or pay for custom layers.

author: AlfBaz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 01:33:55 am
content: Adding solder to unmasked traces on outer layers also helps. Here are some videosDave'sMike's

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 02:27:34 am
content: Quote from: magicsmoke on June 18, 2014, 10:11:51 pmIf you can, place the bus bar on the bottom layer & open up the solder mask. If wave soldering the thickness will be increased, if assembling by hand use some solder to manually thicken them up.Buses don't normally push much current. How much are you talking about?

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 06:58:28 pm
content: Ask in the hackvana IRC channel, he does thicker copper for a small additional cost.http://webchat.freenode.net/?channels=hackvana

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2014, 07:12:41 am
content: We at Iconic pcb do prototype work. Presently we are making a transformer multilayer structure ( 4 layers) in 0.2mm ( approx 6ounce) copper.Time to press and fabricate finished board 4 working days ( plating happens at half ounce per 82 minutes).Cant rush physics..or chemistry for that matter.www.iconicpcb.comin Brisbane... beautiful one day... perfect the next
6layers 6OZ in each layers HASL - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jeff joy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 03:53:25 am
content: Hey Guys,We met a problem when surface finishing,Does anyone know how to solve this issue?Thanks

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 05:30:11 am
content: Quote from: jeff joy on September 26, 2014, 03:53:25 amMy crystal ball is running low on batteries but I'll give this one a go...I suggest you lube up the board with goose fat, after its nice and crispy use a leaf blower.

author: Wilksey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 10:26:21 am
content: Unfortunately nowhere near enough information to go on, for example, you haven't explained how to make the goose fat all crispy!

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 12:00:00 pm
content: Quote from: Wilksey on September 26, 2014, 10:26:21 amEasy. Add plenty of salt & turn up the temperature.
Solder Mask Expansion on SOT353 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 06:44:52 pm
content: Here's a pic. I thought that this manufacture was pretty good. But, what I couldn't see with the naked eye, I see now with a USB microscope. Kinda dissapointed. Is this normal for SOT-353 chips?

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 06:48:10 pm
content: SOT 363. Looks liek they were able to get some between these pads. Though, the alignment is HoridGuess it doesnt really matter for how cheap the boards are. the chips do still work.

author: Araho
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 10:41:49 pm
content: Is the shift consistent on all boards and the entire board or just with that footprint? Have you checked your gerberfiles to see if the alignment issue may be located there?

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 11:14:16 pm
content: Yes, the gerbers seem to be aligned correctly. The shift seems consistent on the whole board

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 11:28:02 pm
content: This is exactly why manufacturers provide expansion rules for their processes.Tim

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 11:52:18 pm
content: well, they also offer a high tolerance option too, so I wonder if selecting that, if soldermask expansion is more aligned and in between the sot353 packages.I will have to email them.
Small run chinesse PCB assembling - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2014, 04:50:39 am
content: What has been your experience with small run (20-100 boards) Chinese PCB assembly?I have a few designs that each have 20-150 components. I would still hand assemble some of the more sensitive components (I have pots and switches that are very particular and only take about 2-3 minutes per product to install so doing that in house is no big deal).Basically, Im looking for a general overview of whats available and what your experience is. Right now it would be through hole designs. I would prefer to supply the components as I dont know how much I trust these assembly plants to not use fake parts or inferior quality units etc.Anyways-What services have you used? I am particularly interested in elecrow-Where there any hidden fees?-What was the turnaround tie?-Were the components installed straight?I live in the USA and would be willing to consider services based inside the United States, but Im not sure if there would really be any cost savings vs doing them in house.

author: mountain-lee
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 29, 2014, 10:38:59 am
content: You'd better use a one stop pcb assembly provider, likewww.nexpcb.com;But there is only standard package on website, you'd better raise a quotation.

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 04:52:37 am
content: Quote from: mountain-lee on July 29, 2014, 10:38:59 amAre you a salesan for nexpcb?

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 05:04:01 am
content: I am aware of this servicehttp://factoryforall.com/I worked with the guy in the US years ago. He was responsible for making the designs manufacturable and for interfacing with the far east manufactures. Apparently he liked it there so he moved to China and is operating from their since. He is a native speaker of English so no Chinglish their.

author: iampoor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 08:10:49 pm
content: Quote from: zapta on August 01, 2014, 05:04:01 amSorry I forgot to reply!Thats a really cool service, but Im looking for a PCB assembler a this point. I don have the startup cash to pay for someone o do the complete assembly yet. Bu Ill keep it in mind!
PCB Fab that allows plated slots and > 1oz copper in USA - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: adammhaile
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2014, 02:23:16 am
content: Anyone know of a good and reasonably priced PCB fab house that will allow plated slots and (not required but a bonus) can do 2 or even 4oz copper?I almost always use OSHPark and have been super happy but any time I do a plated slot they just turn it into a huge circle and they will only do 1oz copper.

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2014, 08:03:45 am
content: I have used itead, and they have happily reproduced a plated slot that was un-intentionally part of a library part (only needed to be a slot, but came with pads..) it was 4mm x 12mm and was properly through plated,

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2014, 08:23:32 am
content: hackvana does plated slots im pretty sure and also does 2oz copper - not USA but with DHL shipping you can expect less than 2 weeks

author: Dagon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2014, 11:38:33 am
content: Not in the US but Itead and Elecrow both do plated slots. Itead also offers 2oz copper.Both also do DHL.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 08, 2014, 12:02:19 am
content: We have just fabricated a series of almost 6 ounce sample boards for a client here in Brisbane , Australia.Used 0.2mm thick copper sheet and laminated it it to 0.7 and 1.6mm FR4 single sided stock to produce the necessary base material which was then mechanically structured.

author: wraper
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 08, 2014, 12:10:58 am
content: smart-prototyping is doing plated slots by default, min slot is 0.8 mm IIRC.

author: jmole
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 08, 2014, 12:39:15 am
content: http://www.twistedtraces.comUsed them a lot, they have a nice deal where you can get an 11x17" panel, lay out whatever boards you want on it, and get it for like $300 shipped (2-layer)
Any reliable PCB Assembly (PCBA) Turnkey Service? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mountain-lee
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 14, 2014, 09:07:18 am
content: PCB manufacture is now a common, standard service around the world.But before PCB Assembly, Components sourcing is very complex, cost time and money.Thousands of components in the world, has variant of assembly process and quality specifications.I have found some:NexPCB, Alibaba, OneStop,Is it safe and convenient to try the PCB Assembly (PCBA) Turnkey Service online?

author: Scrts
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2014, 10:39:12 pm
content: I haven't checked that before, but to add to your list:http://smart-prototyping.com/

author: nuhamind2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2014, 06:08:33 am
content: OP signature is displaymodule which is a partner of NexPCB from their website. All the 7 post OP make always make reference/suggestion to NexPCB.The forum does allow a company to advertise/promote their business, but it's ethical to give a clear point of view who you actually is.

author: Nancy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 11:19:48 am
content: hi,I found a pitch in youtube:about nexpcb.Still by google, There is an interesting project : Apitronics Wireless Platform working with NexPCB. Feedback seems positive as following :https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lthiery/apitronics-wireless-platform/posts/685372Quote
PSR-4000 H85 (Locked) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: csj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 23, 2014, 07:53:49 pm
content: Who knows, where to find technical datasheets on the solder mask PSR-4000 H85 CA-40 H85 TAIYO?

author: kizzap
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 24, 2014, 01:01:29 am
content: Ifthisisn't what you are after,try hereIf you still struggle,then this is your best option.I would recommend trying to talk to either Pete Binzel or Steve Campisi.Next time, use google?

author: csj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 24, 2014, 06:42:28 am
content: http://www.taiyoamerica.com/index.php/products/products-pcbsThe list of products that the mask is missing.http://www.taiyoamerica.com/index.php/contacts/sales-technical-servicePete Binzel, Steve Campisi not responding.Next time, use google?This is the wrong answer to the question.You do not know the exact answer.Google search I well know how to use.In Google there is no information even on the official site.Forum in order and there is a person to get the correct answer.Sorry for the translation - I could hardly speak English.

author: csj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 27, 2014, 07:23:09 am
content: Quote from: csj on January 23, 2014, 07:53:49 pmLocked.Datasheets found.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2014, 07:02:51 am
content: Locked? Let's see if this message will go through...
Purpose of board outline? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: miceuz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2014, 06:30:10 pm
content: Now while preparing a board I have hesitated - if I have an irregular shaped board, does outline (Dimension layer in eagle, Edge cuts layer in kicad) have to follow the insides of routing, i.e. deisgnating exactly where the edges of my irregulary shaped board are or does it have to be a rectangle enclosing whole PCB including routing paths?What's the meaning of this layer anyway?

author: Kohanbash
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2014, 01:22:45 am
content: HiThe outline is usually what your final board should look like and how the PCB manufacturer should mill the edges.So for an irregular board your outline would be that irregular shape.

author: TommyGunn
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2014, 04:04:55 pm
content: Often an assembler will need it to for the stencil. It helps the center a board if all the parts are close to one side.
Seeed Studio Fusion PCB "EORI" Number - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: David
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 10:01:33 pm
content: Hi all,Has anyone purchased from Seed Studio using DHL shipping recently? It asks for an EORI number, however it does let you proceed without one. I assume you do not need to enter it unless you have one?Dave

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 10:04:02 pm
content: I got a headache over this recently and eventually just used EMS.There is an application form to get an EORI here:http://search2.hmrc.gov.uk/kb5/hmrc/forms/view.page?record=vx_L5bRZb-c&formid=7127I honestly, after a few hours of googling, still don't really know how it works. I think you need one for each shipment and you have to talk to HMRC, the courier, the supplier etc all at once. I don't think you can proceed without one, either.

author: David
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 10:08:59 pm
content: I feel better knowing I'm not the only one! I was having the same thoughts about using EMS too...

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 10:38:51 pm
content: The EORI number is not required for importing stuff as individual in a private capacity (there are rare exceptions).As a business you need on. You get it from your local customs authorities in the EU. It is not per shipment, but per business.
Has Anyone Used Fiberglass Tape on Their DIY Re-flow Oven? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TheRuler8510
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 28, 2014, 01:11:37 am
content: Q: Has Anyone Used Fiberglass Tape on Their DIY Re-flow Oven?I thought a nice touch or "gilding the lily," on my DIY re-flow oven would be to use fiberglass tape on the outside of the interior oven box. I was only questioning it because the tape is rated for 500 degrees F, and even at 250 degrees C (for lead free) we are under that, but I was concerned that 500F is OK on the fiberglass side, but maybe not the adhesive side which will be hotter.I am using a nice Black & Decker Convection oven i got from Target for $60 which I am rewiring now and a $80 PID.Any Opinions? Can I put the adhesive side on the hot oven surface?And also--has anyone done insulation experiments?Thanks,

author: salfter
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2014, 03:49:37 pm
content: Quote from: TheRuler8510 on July 28, 2014, 01:11:37 amOne "reflow toaster" project I ran across on YouTube used part of a fiberglass welding blanket, of the sort you might pick up at Harbor Freight or wherever. There wouldn't be any adhesive to worry about with that, and there would be enough material that you could probably fit two or three layers of it around the oven cavity.Found it:He's also using the same $20 toaster oven that I bought. He's using an Arduino with a Rocket Scream shield as a controller. I've mashed them into one small (about 2x2.5") board; most of the parts arrived from DigiKey yesterday, and I fired off a PCB order this morning after checking the parts against a printout of the design (one of the footprints was too small).

author: Fred27
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 05, 2014, 04:18:52 pm
content: I used some welding blanket on my unfinished oven build. Whilst it does provide some insulation it doesn't do as much as I thought it would.It's a thick weave designed to shield things from a gas flame rather than to trap air for insulation. Fibreglass loft insulation might be better but would be nastier to work with.

author: TheRuler8510
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2014, 04:30:54 pm
content: Here's what I ended up doing.I just felt that since I put in a cooling fan inside the space where the wiring & relay is, I wanted to insulate the oven box somewhat. I put down some fiberglass/Silicone tape rated to 250C and riveted an aluminum sheet on top of that because the tape kept peeling up. The aluminum sheet also helped to keep the thermocouple line in place.So I really have no idea if the tape does anything at all, it just felt necessary in my own mind. One thing I can say is the reflow works excellently.Pics:
micro speakers, power, and mikes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JOHN64
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 22, 2013, 05:41:24 pm
content: Ok I will be the first to say I don't know anything about electronics so I hope that you can help me with answers. I would like to find products to put together a lapel mike to micro power product to a micro lapel speaker. This can either be cabled as a consumer product or wireless if that would be possible without interference. I would like the power supply to be rechargeable with capability of at least 24 hours. I would like the power supply to be able to hang from the neck with cables to the speaker and mike. Are these products available to put together? What would the sound quality be like using micro assemblies? Now is when you tell me that people in hell want ice water also. Thanks John
Self-Laminating Two FPC halves? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 01:45:45 pm
content: I have a research project wherein I need to place an array of components between two layers of flexible PCB (FPCB). The components, which are piezo ceramics, will be glued with a Henkel conductive epoxy (TBD, but likely an Eccobond). What is involved in the laminating process on a DIY scale for proof of concept? I obviously don't want to crush the ceramics. I think I might have painted myself into a corner...It seems I would need a custom plate to avoid crushing my components - or very careful ironing. Anyone have experience with such a thing?

author: scientist
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 03:10:36 pm
content: Why bother with flex PCBs if you're going to laminate the halves together? It's not going to be rigid, and it's not going to be anywhere near as flexible as a single board.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 04:55:31 pm
content: If you are going to laminate you will need a press as large as the complete board, and with a platen top and bottom lined with a soft silicone rubber and with some PTFE sheet ( or other non stick plastic that your particular epoxy will not bond to) to apply a firm pressure while the epoxy cures. You assemble the components and align within the work time and then carefully press together.

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 05:13:53 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on May 08, 2014, 04:55:31 pmThank you. I have a press for doing LCD flex and anisotropic epoxy. This assembly is larger, but not by much. I have decided that the custom platen is the way to go.

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 05:14:30 pm
content: Quote from: scientist on May 08, 2014, 03:10:36 pmThe application demands an FPCB.
flex-pcb prototyping - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: daedalus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 04:08:27 pm
content: Can anyone recommend suppliers for cheap flex-pcb prototyping? I'm looking for a run of 10 2-layer boards that will fit in a 200mmx200mm space. I had originally designed for iteadstudio, however they cant handle the size, and am keen not to cut the design up into multiple parts.

author: ElectricGuy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 07:31:48 pm
content: Quote from: daedalus on October 25, 2013, 04:08:27 pmHi;This company does that however i don't know if they have the 200mmx200mm limits.Ask them.http://www.nciproto.com/

author: ElectricGuy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 07:35:59 pm
content: I forget this onehttp://www.multi-circuit-boards.eu/en/pcb-design-aid/flex-rigid-flex.html

author: Alphatronique
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 26, 2013, 06:13:45 pm
content: Hiplease checkhttps://www.internationalcircuits.com/flex.php?cat_id=16that were i made all my pcb for my company ,sale office was in usa and fab in china

author: vivien
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 29, 2013, 02:39:37 am
content: We could make it for you.We exported kinds of PCB with high quality,competitive price and punctual time.No MOQ requirement, both prototpe and mass production are acceptable .For enquiry, please send me Gerber files and I will feedback you timely.For further info, please visit our website atwww.kingcredie.com.King Credie Technology LimitedAddress:Room 1801, Building A ,FuYong Chamber of Commerce Information Building,QiaoTou,FuYong,BaoAn District,Shenzhen,Guangdong,ChinaTel:+86-0755-23110700Phone:+86-15119474139Fax:+86-0755-23110701Email: sales03@kingcredie.comWebsite:www.kingcredie.comSkype:vivien.zhan@hotmail.com
Routing power traces through unused i/o pins - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2013, 02:58:07 am
content: Hey guys,On a PCB i'm making I really want to get MCU VCC to the other side of the MCU for the reset pullup, but the layers and layout is very constrained.I'm thinking about routing the VCC trace through an unused i/o pin on the MCU and it got me thinking about the general issues that might cause.The only three i can think of are- Depending on layout, current draw in the trace, and trace resistance it maybe possible that the i/o pin voltage could be higher than the voltage at the VCC pin.This could cause power to backfeed into the i/o pin with unpredictable results.(In my circuit this can't happen, as power goes to VCC first, then off through the i/o to the reset pullup resistor)- Accidentally coding the MCU to set that i/o pin to output low, which would short it out.- Bad practice. (or is it?)Can anyone think of others?

author: kizzap
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 27, 2013, 03:23:31 am
content: One thing I have seen people do is leave the soldermask over the pad of the pin, thus isolating the pin from the pad. Depending on your application this might be a usable solution (dependent on vibration, etc.)If the pin 100% will never need to be used could you break it off?-kizzap

author: digsys
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 27, 2013, 04:59:26 am
content: Quote from: PsiAbsolutely bad practice !! Even the idea of cutting the pin is fraught with fear :-) ... c'mon, you can do it !!Chuck a via or two near it or 1 trick I use - add a 0R 1/8W resistor to the design. That way you can pick up Vcc a greater distance away.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2013, 05:44:33 am
content: yeah, i wont be cutting the pin off, or leaving soldermask over it.But having +5V on an i/o pin seems fine otherwise?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2013, 05:55:34 am
content: digsys was right, i had another look and found a way that hadn't occurred to me before.So all sorted now, and no i/o pin pass-through
Gloves - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: akis
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2013, 06:35:09 pm
content: The photo resist developer, and the photo resist remover are "harmful" and "do not touch skin, eyes" etc etc. I wear latex gloves but they are melting - not drastically but I have seen a few holes developing on the gloves. After the developer I also need to use the photo resist remover which is also "harmful" and finally the copper etchant which I presume is also "harmful".Is there a proper gloves make/material I can use for these processes?

author: dfmischler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2013, 06:53:31 pm
content: I think EPDM is better than latex for this kind of application. But I don't know if it's good enough.

author: manticore00
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2013, 07:33:25 pm
content: Here's a link that compares the various rubber compounds and shows what they're resistant to and attacked by:http://www.jjshort.com/Rubber-Properties.php

author: strangelovemd12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2013, 07:37:01 pm
content: Manticore FTW.My bet goes on nitrile, do you have the MSDS for this developer?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2013, 07:54:51 pm
content: use nitryl gloves (typically blue in color)

author: strangelovemd12
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2013, 08:09:09 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on November 21, 2013, 07:54:51 pmNitryl is actually an NO2 group, whereas nitrile is CN triple bonded. The latter is what is found in various rubbers (IE gloves). Also note that various types of gloves use various types of nitrile rubbers. Pedantic but true. Seriously, get the MSDS then consult manticore's table. Not just for this post, but for any unfamiliar chemicals you're working with.
Will Itead be able to manufacture PCB with a .5mm pitch 100 pin QTFP footprint? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jabramo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2013, 03:14:55 am
content: I'm starting a design for a new project using a bunch of 100 pin .5mm pitch pic32mx460's in a TQFP package that we were throwing away at work.I was hoping that I could use Itead or Seeed to manufacture my boards because the fab we use for prototypes at work would charge 100+ bucks per piece!Has anyone designed a board with a .5mm pitch? I've been searching online for peoples experiences but so far I haven't found anything conclusive.I don't care if the yield isn't 100% working. I have 6 or 7 chips and apparently Itead will send you 12 if you opt for the open source option so 75% working yield would be good enough (I know desoldering each chip will be a pain but it still beats paying 100 bucks a board).I don't really want to waste my time designing only to get 1 or 2 working boards when I need 6 or 7... Also it'd be a waste of 50 bucks.Edit: I may be wrong about get shipped 12 boards. Rather they make 12 and send 2 out to random people and you get 2 random boards from other people. If anyone could confirm that'd be great

author: Hideki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2013, 03:38:48 am
content: 0.5 mm QFP. Yes, several times and I never had a problem. Make sure you have at least 0.1 mm of solder mask between the pins or they may simply remove the thin lines.Even 1 mm BGA is possible. 0.8 mm not so much, because the minimum hole size is 0.3 mm, which leaves little room for the annular ring.

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2013, 10:48:18 pm
content: 0.5mm pitch TQFP is nothing special and every PCB fab house should be able to make a PCB for that kind of package, even chinese ones...

author: Hideki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2013, 11:04:55 pm
content: You get two random boards from other people. Not 12 of your own boards.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 08:43:23 am
content: well i got 22 boards instead of 20 from seed none of them marked bad. i will check them when i assemble it

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 01:56:43 pm
content: They sometimes send extras, I've even gotten 14 instead of 10. I guess it has something to do with panelization or something and they sometimes have extras left over.

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 12, 2013, 09:49:03 am
content: I've gotten extras on multiple occasions too. I think they simply run a few boards more in case some of them have manufacturing faults. If they made the exact number you've ordered and one would be faulty, then they would have to re-run the process. This ways they have a safety margin. Since boards are useless to them they simply send them too.