Week 4: Electronics Production
February 18, 2024
This week at Fab Academy, we focused on the precision of electronics production, particularly utilizing the Roland MonoFab SRM-20 for PCB milling, soldering, and understanding PCB design.
Group Assignment Page
In our group assignment, we explored the effective use of the Roland MonoFab SRM-20 and documented key considerations.
This week was incredibly fun. Adjusting the SRM-20 and achieving a smooth PCB print required significant effort. I discovered a 0.4mm tilt in the plate using calipers, but eventually, I succeeded in printing correctly after numerous tests. I attempted Adrian’s Quentorres and Krisjanis’s swd+uard adapter xiao rp2040 designs, producing at least three of each before finally getting it right.
I conducted experiments on both Linux and Windows operating systems using Arduino and necessary libraries.
I added 24 and .) extensions to the circuit in Kicad.
My process involved reviewing and editing in Kicad, then creating the PCB with the SRM-20. I followed Kris’s suggested settings of 0.1mm and 1mm for 0.3 and 0.8 speeds, respectively, for re-printing and comparison.
Extensive soldering was performed, followed by measurements with a multimeter. I used desoldering twice to remove rp2040 from the PCBs. As Adrian suggested, I placed tape under the RP2040 to prevent short circuits. After ensuring correct soldering throughout the circuit, I completed debugging with Arduino and LEDs.
It was truly a week of Make, Fail, Learn, Repeat.
[Welcome to Quantorres]
After more than 10 attempts at PCB.
Tools I used during all soldering processes: heat gun, soldering iron, air blower (critical for soldering), desoldering machine, solder, and solder paste.
PCB component list.
For small components, soldering one side first and then heating the other side before soldering makes the process easier.
Using a multimeter for debugging is crucial.
Using a magnifying glass, I can zoom up to 16X.
Fail
Conclusion
I learned the importance of checking the +/- direction on SMD 1206 LEDs before soldering. Neglecting this cost me 5 LEDs. After adhering the plate for SRM PCB milling, measuring each side with calipers is crucial. Ensure your .png file is not below 1000 dpi to avoid issues with SRM-20’s XY settings. Move quickly when using a heat gun to prevent damaging the PCB underneath. Paying attention to prevent short circuits on the rp2040 is vital; never forget the tape underneath.
