NetMarket USA

Electronics hobbying and DIY manufacturing of printed circuit boards requires the mastery of many skills. You will need to learn everything from design software technology to circuit design to chemical processes.

Find out about building a PCB prototype.

Taking Care of Your Custom PCB Prototype

A properly designed and built PCB prototype is the biggest challenge of any electronics project. Your PCB prototype is the heart and soul of your project. Whether you are making your own printed circuit boards or using a third-party manufacturer, your PCB prototype is critical to the success of your project. Since they are so important to your success, you need to know how to properly care for your PCB prototype. Your PCB prototype will be used for everything from testing to a production prototype so learn to take care of it.

While your PCB prototype isn’t necessarily fragile, you should treat it like it is. Be sure to handle it by its edges so that you don’t accidentally damage traces or components. Use sealable plastic container or zip top bags to store your prototype boards when not in use. It takes very little moisture or dirt to make printed circuit boards unusable.

Cleaning Printed Circuit Boards

Cleaning your printed circuit boards will ensure that they can achieve top performance. Here are some tips to help you keep your printed circuit boards clean:

1. Disconnect the electronics product from any power sources. This includes power cords and batteries.

2. Cans of compressed air are useful for remove loose dirt and dust that has collected on the surface of the board and its components.

3. Caked on dirt or oils can be removed with a cottone swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be careful not to soak the board or dislodge electronic components.

Learn more about caring for printed circuit boards.

4. The board and components must dry completely before you use it again. After the board has dried completely, you may want to spray it again with compressed air to remove any additional particulate matter.