Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "Paul Sturpe" <sturpe@...> wrote:
>
> Can someone give me a short recap on the status of direct printing 
with 
> injet printers?  

http://techref.massmind.org/techref/pcb/etch/directinkjetresist.htm is 
just about everything known. If I've missed something on that page, 
please let me know.

> Is there a mod that is considered usable or is it 
> still pretty much in the experimentation stage?

Given thin enough PCB stock, the only mod necessary is to remove 
obstructions to a straight through paper path. For standard thickness 
stock, the mods on the page above are doable. The C84 version requires 
less technical ability. 

The advantage of direct injet printing is that not only the etch 
resist, but also the solder mask AND component silkscreen can be 
printed. No other hobby method offers all that at such a low cost.

- 4 mil traces
- print, cure and etch faster than photo and as fast as TT.
- solder mask
- component "silkscreen"
- Very low startup cost. Just a used C84, the ink, and the time to 
make the mods.

I'm amazed there aren't more people doing it.