Week 4

Then click on open programs

Then choose Roland SRM 20 Mill, Mill 2D PCB

Next you wil be directed here

Select SVG File: Start by selecting the SVG file containing the design you want to convert to RML.

Select Mill Traces: Specify crucial milling parameters such as tool diameter, cutting depth, and spindle speed, ensuring they align with the material properties and desired machining outcomes.

Select Add Module and Save File: Create detailed toolpaths for the milling operation and save them in RML format for CNC machine compatibility.

Set Origin to 0: Set the origin point (0,0) in Mods CE serving as the reference for precise tool movement calculations throughout the milling process.

Calculate Path: Calculate the toolpath and send the file to the milling device.

After calculating the path, it will take us to a different tab which shows us the toolpath preview of the board. This is very helpful as we can detect the possible errors in the milling such as joining of different routes and others.

Processes for Milling a PCB

1. Prepare the Milling Bed

1. Tape a sacrificial board onto the milling bed to secure it.
2. Use double-sided tape to attach the desired supply firmly to the bed, ensuring it sticks well.

2. Establishing Sacrificial Board

A level and stable sacrificial board is crucial for milling as it ensures even and accurate cuts, preventing issues like irregularity or imprecisions in the end product.

3. Choose and Set Up Bit

1. Choose the appropriate bit size for the milling process and secure it in the set screw using an Allen wrench.
2. For tracing, use a small bit like the 1/64 inch size.

4. Machine Setup

Prepare the Milling Bed

1. Tape a sacrificial board onto the milling bed to shield it.
2. Use double-sided tape to attach the preferred supply and securely attach it to the bed, ensuring it sticks well.

Establishing Sacrificial Board

A level and stable sacrificial board is vital for milling because it ensures even and accurate cuts, preventing issues like roughness or mistakes in the end product.

Select and Install Bit

1. Choose the suitable bit size for the milling procedure and secure it in the set screw using an Allen wrench.
2. For mapping, use a bit like the 1/64 inch size.
3. For the edge cuts, use the bit 1/32 inch

5. Machine Setup

1. Close the guard of the milling machine and turn it on.
2. Set the origin point to the desired location on the supply.

6. Bit Adjustment

1. Loosen the bit and manually lower it until it touches the supply surface.
2. When tightening the bit, hold it in place to prevent it from riding up.

7. Bit Change for Cutting

1. Replace the milling bit with a cutting bit, such as a 1/32 inch size, for the boundary cutting process.

8. Load Cutting File

1. Download the photo to be cut and repeat the previous steps.
2. Make sure the appropriate RML file is selected for cutting.

9. Set up Cutting Tool

1. Set the PCB tool to "cut" and select the appropriate bit size for cutting.

Milling!

Me with the Milled board

Now, soldering the board!

Soldering is a process used for joining metal parts to form a mechanical or electrical bond. It typically uses a low melting point metal alloy (solder) which is melted and applied to the metal parts to be joined and this bonds to the metal parts and forms a connection when the solder solidifies.

Steps for Soldering a PCB

Step 1: Prepare PCB

Clean the PCB thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. Place it securely on a heat-resistant surface to ensure stability during the soldering process.

Step 2: Heat Soldering Iron

Allow the soldering iron to heat up to the proper temperature, which should be between 600°- 650°F. Ensure the iron is hot enough to melt the solder effectively.

Step 3: Solder Components

Position the component leads in their designated spots on the PCB. Apply the soldering iron to the solder pad and the component lead simultaneously, then add solder to create a solid joint. Keep the soldering iron tip clean by wiping it on a wet sponge or brass wool ball to prevent oxidation.

Step 4: Test Connections

Once all components are soldered, test the connections with a multimeter or power up the circuit to check for proper functionality. Ensure the PCB is disconnected from any power source before testing. Set the multimeter to continuity mode, where it emits a sound or shows a low resistance reading when a circuit is complete. Place one probe on a point (such as a component pin or PCB trace) and the other probe on the second point to check for continuity. A continuous path indicates proper connectivity, while a high resistance reading suggests breaks, shorts, or faulty connections. This test helps in identifying issues and ensures the PCB operates correctly.

Firstly the components, Sorry I forgot to include the 3 LEDs I used.

Now photo session with the boards!!

Testing!

Firstly, open your Arduino IDE

You will be needing the below URLs

https://github.com/earlephilhower/arduino-pico/releases/download/global/package_rp2040_index.json https://raw.githubusercontent.com/espressif/arduino-esp32/gh-pages/package_esp32_index.json

Add the URLs I mentioned above here

Then open the arduino Blink file

Downloading Pico, because it is needed for the QuenTorres board

Before uploading,make sure to do the following

Me done with this week's assignment

My files

My .rml zipped file All are in the zipped file

My .svg zipped fileAll are in the zipped file