When removed from the etching solution, the PCB is washed and a PCB eraser is used to remove any film from the tracks. This must be done carefully because the film will prevent good soldering of the components to the PCB. The tracks can be checked using a magnifying glass. If there are gaps in the tracks, sometimes they can be repaired using wire but usually a new PCB has to be etched.

The last stage is drilling the holes for the components. A small PCB drill is used for this purpose.

Again care is needed as a good PCB can be ruined by careless drilling.

This completed Printed Circuit Board (PCB) has all its components soldered in position. It has been manufactured through the processes described in the information sheets.
PCBs manufactured in industry are designed on a computer and then manufactured on an production line controlled by computers. Usually there is very little human contact.

QUESTIONS:
1. Describe the stages involved in the manufacture of PCBs - using simple, labelled diagrams.
2. What safety precautions should you take when using ‘developer’ and the ‘etching solution’ ?
3. Complete the notes on the PCB sequence drawing OR place in order the cards representing each stage of manufacturing a PCB. Then place the correct text box underneath each picture.
4. List the advantages of using electronics / PCB simulation software compared to using a breadboard to test a circuit design.
5. What quality checks should be carried out when manufacturing a printed circuit board (PCB).
6. What material is a PCB?
 

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