开云体育

Dave,

First: sit down, take a deep breath, and release it slowly:-)

I don't understand the problem with printing a pdf on the HP1022. I have an HP1018 which is closely related, and never had a problem with printing pdfs. You might visit the HP website and look for an updated driver. I am still on Win 7, dreading the day I have to migrate to Win10.

Regardless of how you print your pattern, you must double check it for dimensional accuracy. Both of the printers I use print pdfs slightly under size to the tune of 1-3%. It doesn't sound like much, but you will notice some difficulty inserting a 14 pin dip, unless your holes are very large. As the board gets bigger, or uses long headers, this becomes more than just an annoyance.

Once you have verified the dimensional accuracy of your print, make several copies. That will save you time when you have to redo because you didn't get the coverage you were expecting.

If your reference to the "no Iron" method is the so called cold process where you use acetone and alcohol, be prepared for an adventure. When I tried it, I found that I had to experiment with the proportions of the chemicals, and once I had that correct, I still had spotty results. Sometimes the transfer was almost perfect, other times, not so much. I eventually abandoned that process.

The iron is ok for experimentation, but if you continue to make boards, you should consider getting a laminator.? Search the archives for more on this. We do have some strong proponents of the iron method, but I think you will find that there are more laminator users.

The T shirt press sounds interesting. I don't remember any discussion on that type of equipment.

Don't get ahead of yourself with regard to the drill bits. If you are using a glass/epoxy laminate (FR4, etc), using regular high speed bits will be a disappointment. They will be dull after a few holes, and they might also tear up your pads. Wait for the bits, you won't be sorry. Drill at high speed, but feed slowly. The bits are brittle and you will break a few while you are learning.

As regards the etchant, pay attention to the safe handling rules. Wear gloves, eye protection, and an acid proof apron or other acid proof clothing, work in a well ventilated area, and keep a bucket of clean water close by in case of accident.

Best of luck for your first try.

Harvey