Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Alessio Sangalli <alesan@...> wrote:
>
> Hi, I moved recently to USA and I am building up my hobby "lab" from
> scratch.
> 
> I already got a laminator (I hate to use the iron, the results are so
> uncertain), the etching tank, H2O2 and muriatic acid, and the like.
> 
> I'm using Tom's page as a reference:
> http://www.fullnet.com/~tomg/gooteepc.htm
> 
> I've read that a very good paper for toner transfer is the one found at
> staples, SKU 471861 or 471865, called "photo basic" "gloss". I have
> found one with the same name but a different SKU (648181):
> 
> http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/StaplesProductDisplay?storeId=10001&jspStoreDir=Staples&productId=274671&cmSearchKeyword=photo+basic+glossy&fromUrl=home&cmArea=SEARCH&catalogId=10051&langId=-1
> 
> It should be the same, right?
> 
> 
> Then, Tom says the JetPrint "Multi-Project" paper is perfect for the
> silk screen side. I have not found this paper at Wal*Mart or Staples.
> Any idea which paper is good for this application?
> 
> 
> Thank you
> Alessio
>

The Staples paper is OK, but not great - It takes a LOT of work to get all the paper off. One that works much better is HP Presentation paper Q2546A - http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/StaplesProductDisplay?storeId=10001&jspStoreDir=Staples&productId=156882&cmSearchKeyword=q2546a&fromUrl=home&cmArea=SEARCH&catalogId=10051&langId=-1

This requires less pressure and heat than the Glossy Photo paper - I assume this is because of the lower thermal mass? - and comes off very cleanly.
A neat trick to help remove the paper: instead of soaking in water, soak the PCB+paper in ordinary white vinegar. The longer you leave it, the easier it is to remove, but about 10 minutes in room-temperature vinegar works great. Then a quick wipe with your thumb or a paper towel dipped in the vinegar and all the glue/coating comes right off.

~flight