[Milsurplus] PCB - masking question. heat mailable inkjet, ink ?

Brad Hernlem hernlem at gmail.com
Sat Jan 26 13:03:40 EST 2013


On this topic, I have successfully used laser printer toner printed onto 
glossy magazine paper (avoid pages with colored photos) salvaged from 
magazines. High heat and pressure lead to smearing of the traces. There 
seems to be an optimal temperature but the biggest problem is getting 
uniform heat across the board. Consequently, this works best for small 
boards. I hand paint with fingernail polish when I need to mask large 
areas or fine traces are not required. Toner transfer seems to work best 
for narrow traces and small pads. Careful cleaning and prep of the 
copper coated PC board is also vital to optimal toner adhesion. A 
Scotch-Brite pad and scouring powder works well.

Brad
KG6IOE


More information about the Milsurplus mailing list