How to Go Postal

Step 5 Hook a Sticka Up

Now you can add your components. This happens in three steps:

1. Placement
Position the component so that it lays flat, or upright or on "it's back". Determine the position that is most stable for that given package or form factor. Bend the leads so that they touch your conductive contact pads or traces. Don't worry about cutting the excess lead yet.

2. Epoxy
Epoxy the component body to the postal label. Make sure to not get epoxy on the component leads or the traces as it will act as an insulator.

3. Bend and Clip
Once the epoxy has dried (in about 15 minutes) you can bend the leads so that they follow the traces and make contact exactly where you want them. Just clip off any excess.

4. Hook it Up
Now you can do two things. You can put a thick layer (glob) of conductive paint or ink on the area where the component leads make contact with the traces. This is the quick and dirty way. It is less stable but who are we kidding -- we're making a circuit on postage. You can also use conductive epoxy. The connection will be very strong, but it will require at least 6 hours drying time.

Check the photos for more details on attaching the hardware.

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