ELECTRONICS PRODUCTION
This week I worked on the characterization of the milling machine modelaw mdx-20 3D to make the programmer FAB ISP44.
Use of mods
We follow the instructions shown in the image to select the machine and the task it should work with.
![](images5/5w1.jpg)
Once entered it will show us the configuration environment.
![](images5/5w2.jpg)
The first thing we did was select an image in PNG format because the JPG format is a compressed format and does not have a good resolution to do the job.
![](images5/5w3.jpg)
Before starting to generate the milling path, we must have parameters, such as the measurement of the milling cutter that, by default, looks like 1/64 (to trace the pcb) and 1/32 (to cut the circuit board). offset number: Here you can change how much copper you want to removes of your traces. This parameter works very well by default using 4 to do traces and 1 for cutting. Choosing 0 as an offset you tell to the machine to remove all the copper except the traces, but you extend considerably the machining time.
![](images5/5w4.jpg)
In parameters X and Y, we can move the machine's point of origin, in addition to calibrating the Z position of the mill. In "status" we can see if the machine is connected or not; besides being able to send the file of trajectory by means of a button in the inferior part.
![](images5/5w5.jpg)
By clicking on the calculate button, we can see a preview of the milling path in addition to useful information that may interest us.
![](images5/5w6.jpg)
To perform the work of cutting the PCB, a .png file must be entered with the appropriate measures in addition to selecting the 1/32 milling cutter (although in our case we use the 3/32 and 1/16 milling cutter) in addition to making the cut safe of the entry pcb in the "cut depth" parameter -> "in = 0.07" to ensure an adequate cut.
![](images5/5w66.jpg)
In the machine we will find 4 buttons, which are defined by their color: green-on; white-sight (to move the plate forward); orange-to define the position on the Z axis of the machine (it must be quite precise to give an adequate position).
![](images5/5w7.jpg)
To fix the copper plate, use double-sided spruce tape (preferably covering the entire bottom surface to ensure that it is level).
![](images5/5w8.jpg)
I started with the milling tests using 1/64 milling cutters and for cutting a 3/32 cutter, (at the time of the most complicated start it was to square correctly the Z-position of the cutter, because if it is located too low below can release too much copper from the plate).
![](images5/5w9.jpg)
Here I show the first result of milling both cutting and tracing. where a detachment of collection can be observed due to a bad location in the Z axis and milling of the milling cutter.
![](images5/5w10.jpg)
Continue to carry out more tests until I can be guided by the sound of the cutter when coming into contact with the copper in order to define a suitable position in Z, achieving a better result both in the trace and in the cut. In addition to identifying that the thickness of the copper tracks must be greater than .015
![](images5/5w11.jpg)
I proceeded to trace the circuit for the ISP44 in which I had to use a 1/16 milling cutter because the 3/32 cutter came to damage the circuit on the sides.
![](images5/5w12.jpg)
After properly sanding the circuit, I proceeded to gather the necessary electronic components.
![](images5/5w13.jpg)
To perform the welding process use, a clamp, a press, a soldering iron, tin and flux
![](images5/5w14.jpg)
Giving me the following result; where the most complicated thing was to solder the micro usb port and hold the smd components.
![](images5/5w15.jpg)
After finishing the circuit, perform continuity tests to verify that there is no short circuit. additionally weld a resistance of 0 ohms to temporarily connect the "SJ1 and SJ2" to be able to program it; When I connected it to the computer, I verified that there was no short circuit and that the welding was successful.
![](images5/5w16.jpg)
Self evaluation
What problems did I have?
I had problems with the programming because some computer with Linux was not available to be able to program, in addition to it I find it difficult to make the code.
How did I resolve the problems?
A specialist was called so that he could enable one of the computers and be able to carry out the programming.
What should I improve?
I must improve my programming skills, by welding I must improve my technique to give a better finish to my projects.