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Step 3Make the PCB
There are various techniques out there to make your own PCB. However, due to the fine pitch of the surface mount components, the only method I'd recommend using here is the photo etch method. The alternative is to send the design away and have someone else (like BatchPCB) make it for you.
I cut the rough shape of the board using a band saw, then finished the edges on my scroll saw with a metal cutting blade. You could also smooth the edges with a belt sander, but if you do, be sure to use breathing protection! The fine dust is (likely) bad for you.
Once your board is made, check it very carefully for open and shorted traces. Pay extra attention to the pads on the surface mount ICs - tiny bits of copper can remain here and short pins together. I speak from experience.
I cut the rough shape of the board using a band saw, then finished the edges on my scroll saw with a metal cutting blade. You could also smooth the edges with a belt sander, but if you do, be sure to use breathing protection! The fine dust is (likely) bad for you.
Once your board is made, check it very carefully for open and shorted traces. Pay extra attention to the pads on the surface mount ICs - tiny bits of copper can remain here and short pins together. I speak from experience.
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