this post was submitted on 12 Apr 2024
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That sounds like a legitimate use case, tbh.
Sometimes the complexity of a "better" system isn't worth it when a "lesser"-but-easier system exists that produces satisfactory results.
I know PCB etching enthusiasts have developed a way to transfer laser toner onto copper PCBs.
I wonder if there is a similar system that could be done, but between print paper and product paper.
The transfer is done because it's really hard to feed a PCB into a printer.
Color is the main concern.
Ah, right enough. I remember destroying a $20 inkjet so I could feed PCBs through it.
I stopped prototyping my own PCBs before I got into UV transfer or toner transfer. Its been a good many years
One lab I was in used a CNC mill to route boards. It was pretty effective, and really great for custom geometry like encoders formed to the back of motors or boards doubling as structural components.
I bought a 3d printer with an eye to get back into PCB fab... Either by swapping to a CNC head, or by printing plastic onto PCB.
I just don't make enough PCBs these days to justify the FAFF of making it work. Which is a shame. I bet if have a lot of fun