What tools to use for SMD prints?

Hi all,


I was wondering what tools you guys use for SMD prints (witch tools do you use for placement of the SMD's (solder tool, SMD placer,...) and witch tools do you use for etching a SMD print?

Re: SMD prints

I guess u can find the SMD prints at the end of data sheets but if u want to desgin a SMD thats another thing

Re: SMD prints

I mean with this question:

What tools can I use for making some SMT prints at home (layout, placement of fine-pitch SMD components,...)

SMD prints

From what i know
- you can do it by hand without special tools (dont recommend that - will get problem with eye )
- you can get stereoscopic microscope (few 100 USD ) which help you solder and place them . MIne has builtin usb camera, but i dont recommend use microscope with usb camera - they delay view if you wish to work via monitor. It is good to shot picture of pcb.
- you can buy special handwork tools (e.g. http://microcontrollershop.com/product_info.php?products_id=724)
- you can get pick and place tool (starting few 10K USD ) and use it .
- you can use oven for smd soldering
- ...

QFP is easiest stuff to work with
then goes QFN ...
BGA stuff is toughest - you need at least manual rework station (few kilo USD).

said is dependent on pin count and package specifics.

Search google (f.e. "manual smt soldering") there are plenty of links such as :
http://www.geocities.com/vk3em/smtguide/websmt.html

Re: SMD prints

if you mean a schematic of a circuit that includes the ICs with SMD packagings then u can use veraiety of softwares such as Orcad or Protel etc all u gatta do is to find out the lay out of that IC by searching it in the software liberary.other than this designing the interior layout of an SMD packaged Ic is not a task that can be performed by individual(expensive and protected software and great knowledge og VHDL is neede as far as I know)

Re: SMD prints

yes but; are there handy tools to get for assembling SMT components on a print?

SMD prints

let say :
http://www.zeph.com/probes_tweezers.htm
http://www.wassco.com/meisnowokiso1.html
http://smtinspection.com/

just an example i never used them , but you can find similar tools and famous brands. it is about money you are willing to spend , i guess for quality small setup about 1-2 K usd

Re: SMD prints

First make the PCB
- you can use Protel (easy),Eagle or any other software for design.
- produce the pcb, see my method here -


Purchase all the components.

Get your tools & equipments
- SMD stencil (if you are serious) or paste applicator (syringe type).
- Solder paste.
- Oven for reflow (must be temp. profile controlled).
- Pair of fine tweezers or pick & place mc (again if you are serious).
- Magnifying glass for inspection (you got to have it).

Of course many of the tools & components areavailable on Digikey, RS etc.

Hope you hv the idea.

Re: SMD prints

Hi..

There are a lot of references on the web that shows/illustrates how to do SMD work. If you want try to search on youtube. Some people even posted videos on how to do it. But in the end its really up to you which approach you want to take.