Simple Etching questions

[PattyRick]

First off never done. Would rather do it instead of using perfboard but I dunno how.

I heard the simplest way is to trace the thingy with sharpie. That doesnt seem right cause -wont the etching solution eat the marker ink? And one more thing. -How would I remove the sharpie ink if it does work; Rubbing Alcohol?

[Peter Snowberg]

I've never had great luck with sharpies but apparently there is a more industrial version that works better.

There are better ways if you have access to a copier or laser printer.

http://www.tonepad.com/photoessay.asp?photoEssayID=10

Also, use the search function above with terms like "press AND peel" or "etch AND board". There are other methods using photo paper with a laser printer.

If you do find a marker that works well for etching, you'll be able to remove it from the board with a light solvent like acetone. Nail polish remover contains acetone. Alcohol may work well too depending on the ink.  

Best of luck and welcome to a new level of DIY!

[Paul Perry (Frostwave)]

Suprisingly, the sharpie ink resists the etchant. Usually..
search for PCB resist pens for a million opinions.

And, nail varnish remover (acetone) will take of stuff like that.

[KevinHart]

I have used the PCB etching pens for a lot of years along with the Letraset type rub down transfers. These are great but take a bit of effort to get right.
I then stumbled on the Lazer printer method, whe you print the PCB layout onto photopaper and then iron it onto the copper clad board, then use warm water to remove the paper and the lazer (or photocopier) toner is left behind and is fully etch resistant.  You can even use this method to give an image of the component placement on the top side of the board for a really 'proffessional' look  :lol:

I have completed about 6 boards using this method and it has been perfect every time, right down to the 8pt lettering that I add to the board.

Have a look at this forum over at Headwise for more details

http://headwize.com/ubb/showpage.php?fnum=3&tid=5318&srch=laser;

[Dragonfly]

try using a paint marker instead of the sharpie...i find it works much better....

[Paul Marossy]

I have etched about four dozen different PCBs using a Sharpie marker and they have all turned out well. The trick is to make sure that the marker goes on thick and to etch it fast. The last board I etched (last weekend) only took 5 minutes to etch. I used a baggie full of fresh etchant in straight hot tap water.