This week, our group explored the practical workflow of PCB fabrication using the Modela milling machine as a core tool. We characterized design rules including trace width and spacing, keeping these guidelines in mind in order to produce a functional PCB design ready for submission to a board house.
Our PCB project followed a straightforward workflow: first, we created the digital schematic and characterized design rules such as trace width, spacing, and drill tolerances. Using this mill file as a base, we found that 0.015 inches is the minimum trace width that the Modela can process with a 1/64" end mill bit—any narrower and either the wire peels off the page, or, in the case of a 'milled out' gap, it approaches the limit of being registered correctly in the CAM software. Next, we prototyped the PCB using the Modela milling machine, tested for functionality, and then submitted the design to a board house for professional fabrication.
Stasya uploaded her PCB design to JLCPCB to produce a professionally manufactured board.