I want to make some PCBs

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JimGore

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Hi all,

Veroboard works well enough, but gets old quickly so I have decided to try and make some PCBs.

I know Gert likes the photo sensitive coated PC boards.  I can get them here: http://shop.rabtron.co.za/catalog/photopositive-coated-board-100x160mm-p-2407.html

Alternatively I could get this starter kit: http://shop.rabtron.co.za/catalog/complete-board-etching-p-2862.html

For the time being I am only interested in making single-sided PCBs, so no through plating, etc is needed for now.  I have done some homework on Google, etc but there are just too many different opinions on how to do this.

What I want to know is:
1.  What is the easiest (not cheapest) way to make a good PCB?  What will I need?
2.  Is there any software that will allow me to draw the PCB layout on and route the tracks?  Freeware or shareware recommendations which will allow me to experiment a bit before I commit 100% will be appreciated.

I have a pedestal drill, so I can get some 0.8mm and 1.0mm drill bits to do the drilling.  Other than that I don't have anything I think I would need.

For my first project I am plannin on making a regulated power supply which gives -15V 0 +15V output.  I have a circuit diagram for this which I have used a number of times on Vero.

Thanks for your assistance.

Regards,
Ian.
 
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