Cutting PCB trace with utility knife?

[bobsun]

Hello,

Is it possible to break a PCB trace using sharp utility knife?

I need to replace one trace on the top surface of the board with another jumper wire connection. This is a multi-layer board and quite fortunately there are no other traces beneath the intended break point. In this situation, may I simply use a sharp utility knife to do the cutting?



Bob

 

[alexan_e]

You can do it with a screwdriver, a knife or a pcb scraper, scratch the trace carefully back and forth until the thin copper layer is removed, be careful because you don't want to damage the surrounding traces so work slowly and precise.
Another option is to scratch the trace with the corner of a screwdriver to cut it vertically.

Alex

 

[bobsun]

Alex,

How about X-ACTO knife? I googled and it seems many stores are selling this brand of knife for PCB modification. Is it superior in effect?

Bob

 

[alexan_e]

If you have it you can use it but it can be done with anything that has sharp edge.
The PCB is not going to be cut like a paper , you have to scrap it a few times until the thin copper layer goes off.

Alex

 

[bobsun]

Alex,

I see it, thanks.

Bob

 

[FvM]

People have different preferences. I personally like small (9 mm blade) snap-off blade cutters for all kinds of PCB modifications. For wide traces, a Dremel with a small milling tool should be considered. With it, you can even access inner layers of a multilayer board.

 

[bobsun]

FvM,

Nice seeing you again My first board worked and I am doing some modification work for new connections.

Thanks for the information.


Bob