Homebrew PCBs

Leon wrote:
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "jusdebra" <pookie_debra@...>
> To: <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 9:17 PM
> Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: Newbie questions
> 
> 
>> OMG, my dad is a Dave Miller.  Almost freaked me out when I saw it.  I was 
>> thinking, "Is he in this group?"
>>
>>  Anyway, you guys have me confused again.  Some recommend acid and some 
>> alkali.  I've worked with both in some very strong concentrations and know 
>> how to handle them.  I have a $300 respirator with O2 feed and lots of 
>> gloves.  My biggest question is the type of paper you use in the printer 
>> so you can get a transfer.  Where do you get it?  Also a good source for 
>> blank boards (single side to start with).  What about software?  Is there 
>> a freeware that works good for simple layouts?  Is there a standard 
>> commercial package that everyone uses or is the most popular.  I've read 
>> about Eagle????
>>  I've done some layouts by hand with a felt tip pen, but it's time 
>> consuming and difficult to edit.
> 
> We were discussing the photo etch process, not toner transfer. NaOH solution 
> is for developing the resist after UV exposure.

I use 10% Na2CO3 sodium carbonate for the developing. Unlike NaOH,
it's much less reactive to skin.

> Everyone uses different software. I use Pulsonix which is excellent but 
> rather expensive. A free version of Eagle is available that will do small 
> boards, but it isn't an easy program to use. Then there is PCB (completely 
> free) which is usually run under Linux. KiCAD is another free program.