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# Prototype PCBA Manufacturing
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This documents free software and open source hardware manufacturing
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of PCBAs (Printed Circuit Board Assemblies).
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Focus is particularly on tools that can be used with hackerspace-
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level technology.
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# Software
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Various Free Software (as defined by FSF) applications available
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for the creation of PCBAs.
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## Debian
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The below packages are in Debian Buster. Note, even though it is in
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Debian, you may want to build some of these packages from scratch
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since the version in Debian is old. Debian `backports` maintains
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an up to date KiCAD.
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The following are in use in the current production toolchain:
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* `freecad` --- Visualization of PCBAs and more. 3D CAD application.
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* `inkscape` --- vector-based drawing program.
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* `kicad` --- Electronic schematic and PCB design software.
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The following are NOT in use:
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* `electronics-pcb` --- Debian packages for PCB development (meta package).
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* `fritzing` --- Easy-to-use electronic design software.
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* `geda` --- GPL EDA -- Electronics design software.
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* `gerbv` --- Gerber file viewer.
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* `lepton-eda` --- Lepton Electronic Design Automation.
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* `pcb` --- printed circuit board (pcb) design program.
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* `pcb2gcode` --- command-line tool for engraving PCBs using CNCs.
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* `pcb-rnd` - Modular Printed Circuit Board layout tool.
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* `visolate` - tool for engraving PCBs using CNCs.
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## Electronic Design Automation (EDA)
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To design PCBs, KiCAD is used.
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Export Gerber files for manufacturing.
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# PCB Manufacturing.
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You can make your own PCB or have them made by numerous suppliers.
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Recommended suppliers (amongst many):
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* OSHPark --- Strong FLO supporters, high quality, quick turn, USA.
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* DirtyPCBs --- Lowest possible cost out of Shenzhen, China.
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* ProtoExpress -- Quick turn, high quality, high cost, USA.
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* Many others that also support KiCAD!
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## Board Types and Features
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FR1, FR4, etc.
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## Copper Layer
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Cu later.
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## Soldermask
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Green...
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## Silkscreen
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White...
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## Standards & QC
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Standards:
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* RoHS (no lead).
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* cf. NASA Standards.
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# Assembly
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You can have a board assembled by a house such as ProtoExpress,
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or you can assemble it yourself. There is an endless variety of
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DIY approaches to this. This you have the PCB finished. You need to:
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* Source components.
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* Place components.
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* Solder Components.
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## Placement
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The many ways to place a part...
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* Fingers.
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* Tweezers.
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* Vacuum.
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* Pick and Place.
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What method is used depends on the type and size of the part
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and what equipment is available. We'll be working with SMT,
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BGA, and through hole parts.
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## Solder Paste
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To solder SMT parts to PCB.
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In use:
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* CHIPQUIK SMD291SNL50T3, 50g jar.
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* Zeph ZeroLead, 96.5Sn / 3Ag /.5Cu, 10cc syringe.
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## Solder Wire
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In use:
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* Kester K1000D, no clean, no lead, 0.8mm.
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* Kester Sn96.5Ag3.0Cu0.5, no clean, no lead, 0.8mm.
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## Flux
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In use:
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* Zephlux No Clean Flux, 14 gr. jar.
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## Flux Remover
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But you just put flux on...
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In use:
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* Zeph Flux Remover.
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## Low Melt Alloy
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To desolder, perchance.
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* Zeph ZERO No Lead Low Melt.
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## Solder Wick
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Solder wick, aka desoldering wire.
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In use: variety sizes.
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## Heat
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You need to melt that solder...
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* Solder Iron.
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* Skillet.
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* Oven.
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* Hot air pencil.
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* Hot air bath.
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# PCBA Testing
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Pins.
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# Equipment
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The equipment considered is what is generally available to
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hackerspaces. This leaves out industrial gear like large
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wave solder machines.
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## LASER
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LASERS can serve a few purposes in manufacturing PCBAs.
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Inexpensive LASER cutters are available at many hackerspaces.
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Inexpensive LASERs can be retrofit to RepRap 3D printers.
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* Cut solder paste stencils.
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* Etch paint, which is then chemically etched.
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* Board marking, such as serialization.
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## CNC
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Large CNCs are overkill for PCBA assembly.
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Very small CNCs can be used.
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CNCs are available at many hackerspaces.
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CNCs can be used to:
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* Engrave PCB.
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* Drill PCB holes.
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## 3D Printer
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RepRap 3D printers are available at many hackerspaces.
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3D printers can be used to:
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* Make CNC fixtures.
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* Make board holding fixtures.
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* Make other tools, etc.
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## Solder Station
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Solder station tools:
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* Soldering iron.
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* Hot air pencil.
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* Hot air bath.
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* Fume extrator.
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* PCB holder.
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* Lights.
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* Magnification.
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* Solder paste dispenser.
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* Vacuum pencil.
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* Oven.
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* Heat plate.
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* Solder pot.
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