Introduction to surface mount technologies - build a running PCB

Course Summary:  This is a multi-evening hands-on class to make your own customized and operational printed circuit board (PCB) based on surface mount technologies.  This is an introductory course designed for someone who is new to surface mount PCB technology.

The Details: You will learn how to use the free and open source KiCad application to make a schematic and layout a PCB.   Your individual challenge will be to make a schematic and 2-layer PCB layout from a simple electronics circuit (provided) based on famous 555 timer and some LEDs.  We'll also dabble in PCB art - you'll be able to add some custom graphics to your PCB.  Maybe a custom shaped PCB as well.  Your PCB will be manufactured by JLCPCB.  While the PCBs are being manufactured and shipped to Victoria (about 2 weeks) we'll make laser cut PCB stencils (used to apply solder paste to the PCBs) and have a dry run practice session with some donated PCBs and some components from our Makerspace SMT component inventory.  When your PCBs arrive you'll apply the solder paste with your stencil, inspect the paste application with our microscope, use our manual pick-and-place tool to attach the electronic components, and then finally bake your PCB in the Controleo3 reflow oven.  If all goes well you'll apply power to your PCB using a USB-C cable and the LEDs will come to life !

Here are the skills you'll learn:

• schematic capture and PCB layout using KiCad
• setup of KiCad for JLCPCB fabrication capabilities
• design checking using the JLCPCB online tool
• ordering PCBs from JLCPCB
• selecting and ordering electronic components from DigiKey
• making a mylar stencil using a laser cutter
• applying solder paste to a PCB using a mylar stencil
• populating a PCB with components using a manual pick and place tool
• using a microscope to inspect the solder paste application and component placement
• baking the PCB in a reflow oven

What you will need:

• Laptop PC capable of running KiCad 8

What's included in the course fees:

• manufacturing PCBs at JLCPCB factory
• all electronic components
• mylar for stencil

Instructor:  Mike Teachman

Cost: 

$100 for Members

$200 for Non-Members

Class size:  Max 4 participants.  Minimum 2

Cancellation Policy: Non-refundable, fully transferable.  Directors to make exceptions based on cases of hardship (injury, death in the family, etc.)