Printed circuit board have many uses in technology. However, it is more cost-effective to do concept testing before moving into PCB manufacturing. PCB prototype boards allow ideas to be approved cheaply before a full print version is produced.

In this article, we will cover the different types available and how to use PCB prototype boards to plan final circuit board designs.

How to use PCB prototype board

Before you can learn more about how to use A PCB prototype board, you must understand the different types of prototype boards available.

Perforated plate

Performance boards are one of the available types of prototype boards. This category is also known as a “per-hole pad” design, in which each hole has its own conductor pad made of copper. Using this setting, you can test solder connections between individual pads. In addition, you can wire between pads on perforated plates.

The strip plate

Like other common prototype PCBS, the plugboard also has a separate hole setup. Instead of a single conductor pad for each perforation, copper strips run parallel to the length of the circuit board to connect the holes, hence the name. These strips replace wires that you can also disconnect.

Both types of PCB prototypes work well on the planning board. Because copper wires are already connected, plugboards are also good for planning simple circuits. Either way, you will use prototype plate welding and prototype plate wire to test potential boards.

Now you’re ready to learn more about how to use prototype board design in more detail.

planning

Even if you know how to use a PCB prototype board, you don’t want to jump right into prototyping. Although prototype boards are much cheaper than printed circuit boards, they still have a more durable configuration. Before starting to place components, you should spend some time in the planning phase to get the best results for yourself.

A straightforward way to get started is to use a circuit board planning application on a computer. Such software gives you the option to visualize the circuit before putting down any components. Note that some programs work well with both Perf and Stripboard, while others work with only one type, so plan to purchase prototype boards accordingly.

If you want to use a less digital solution, you can also use square paper for prototype board layout. The idea is that every place where the lines cross is a hole in the board. Components and wires can then be drawn. If stripper boards are used, it is also helpful to indicate where you plan to interrupt the stripper.

Digital programs allow you to edit ideas faster, but hand-drawn content can help you target projects in different ways. Either way, don’t skip the planning phase, as you can save time and effort when building a Protoboard.

Cutting prototype board

With a Protoboard, you probably don’t need a whole sheet of paper. Since the boards may vary in size, you may need to cut one. Be careful, however, as this process can be complex.

Part of the reason is because of the materials on the prototype board. The design usually laminates the paper with a resin that resists soldering heat, which is very useful when you enter this stage. The disadvantage is that this resin can easily break the original plate, so it is best to be extra careful.

One of the most efficient and accurate ways to cut a prototype board is to use a ruler and a sharp knife. You can use the edge as a guide to cut lines where you want to cut the board. Repeat on the other side, then place the prototype board on the edge of a flat surface such as a table. You can then grab the board neatly according to your own marks.

Experts suggest that a cleaner fracture can be obtained by marking along the position of the hole in the board, because there is no such stable prototype board that can break and break easily.

Band saws and other band tools can be used, but these tools are much more likely to damage the prototype board in the process.

Bread board to strip board

If you’ve done any work on a prototype PCB, you’ve probably come across a breadboard. These prototype boards are great for developing designs because you can move and change components to build plans. Bread boards can also be reused.

In this regard, the component layout can be moved to a strip board for further testing. In addition, ribbon and perforated prototype boards are less restrictive because you can make more complex connections. If you plan to move from breadboard to stripper board, you can help purchase a directional matching stripper board or destroy stripper board traces.

If you want temporary circuits to have a more robust and permanent configuration, moving components from the bread to the stripper board is one of the most convenient ways.

Break the strip board marks

As mentioned earlier, ribbon-board PCBS have copper strips at the bottom that serve as connections. However, you won’t need to connect all the components all the time, so you’ll need to break these limitations.

Fortunately, all you need is a drill. All you have to do is take a 4mm drill bit and press the nib on the hole you want to disconnect. With a little twist and pressure, the copper can be cut off to form a barrier strip. When learning how to use a double-sided PCB prototype board, note that copper foil is on both sides.

If you want something more advanced than a standard bit, you can use specific tools to disconnect these connections, but the DIY approach works just as well.

conclusion

Knowing when and how to use prototype boards is a critical skill for anyone who wants to design and test circuit boards without the cost of printing them. With prototype boards, you can make great strides toward finishing your product.