Shenzhen Ready
Classics
Online Showcases of PCBs
Cardboardelectrnics Collection of PCB projects curated by D. Kera
How to prepare the files
Basics
Go crazy and draw, paint, design your boards as you wish!
some inspriations here: http://dusjagr.hotglue.me/
See some of our classics: File:MadLab_circuit_classics.pdf
Inkscape preparations
... still needs to be updated!
Example from ucok's Biosynth: http://lifepatch.org/Biosynth
The cut-milled border should be 2mm, some pcb manufacturers then just use a 2mm tool. this will be the cheapest, but reduced resolution in the sharp corners.
Important files and formats to export
- Export as bitmap the following layers: Copper, StopMask, SilkScreen
- 600 or 1200 dpi has been shown to give good enough quality
- Export the cut-out layer individually (copy into new file) as .dxf
- (the drill layer is best made in KiCAD)
Finalizing in KiCAD
First time KiCAD users
- install and start KiCAD
- Make a new project and define file path
- Make a custom personal library for your crazy footprints and logos
Import using Logo-Importer
- Be careful white means it's there
- double check negative/positive
- click export
- navigate into your personal library and name it understandibly
- find generated using your file browser .kicad_mod in your personal library
- Find/Replace with text editor to change to your wanted layer (F.Cu, F.Mask...)
Panelizing for automated assembly
Send for manufacturing
- Make extra notes to the manufacturer to use the file as is, or clarify all the weird shapes and layers.
Urs' favorite: http://www.pcbway.com/
- limited colors for silk screen.
- around 1$ for our typical size of pcb.
- delivery usually around 10-15 days, delivery and customs can add 20-40 $