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Homebrew PCBs

Index last updated: 2026-04-28 23:05 UTC

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Re: Printer

2017-02-02 by craigl2@...

Use your laser printer to make transparencies.


When I was trying toner transfer to make PCBs I bought some "Green TRF" from the "PCB Fab - in a - Box" site. It is used to further protect the toner while etching the board. I also bought some "Black TRF" and some "White TRF" to use in making labels. They apparently no longer sell the black.


I have used the "Black TRF" on laser transparencies to make a negative. It gives blacker areas than any inkjet or laser toner could ever possibly do. You can run it through any laminator, even a cheap $20 one, It does not need to be one capable of handling PCBs.


The foil is available in many colors from various sources including Amazon and eBay. Search for "reactive foil". One widely available brand seems to be "Heidi Swapp Minc Reactive Foil". Probably any color would work although the pigment colors may work better than metallic colors. One comment on Amazon about the black foil in particular said it was flimsier than the others and harder to use. Any tiny pin holes can be touched up with a Sharpie or other fine tip pen.


Craig

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