DIY PCB Etching - PIC16F877A Development Board

This project documents the design and fabrication of a DIY PCB for the PIC16F877A microcontroller, built as part of a university assignment.

The PCB was made using the toner transfer method and chemical etching.

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🛠️ Tools & Materials

Tools:

• Drill machine
• Cloth iron
• Laser printer
• Sandpaper / Steel wool
• Soldering iron
• Gloves, pliers

Chemicals:

• Ferric Chloride (FeCl₃) – etching solution
• Thinner

Materials:

• Copper clad board (10×6 cm)
• Glossy/photo paper
• Black permanent marker

PCB Design Software:

• EasyEDA

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⚡ Components

• PIC16F877A microcontroller ×1
• ZIF40 socket ×1
• LM7805 voltage regulator ×1
• 16 MHz oscillator ×1
• Resistor 10kΩ ×1
• Capacitors: 22µF ×2, 0.33µF ×1, 0.1µF ×1
• Push button (6mm) ×1
• Male pin headers: 1×9, 1×6 (x2), 1×10, 1×5
• Screw terminal ×1

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📝 Fabrication Steps

1. Design: Create the schematic & PCB layout using EasyEDA.
2. Print: Print the mirror image layout on glossy photo paper using a laser printer.
3. Prepare Board: Cut copper clad board and clean with sandpaper/steel wool.
4. Transfer Toner: Place printed layout on copper board and press with a hot iron (5–10 mins). Fill missing traces with a permanent marker.
5. Etching: Immerse in FeCl₃ solution until unwanted copper is removed.
6. Clean: Remove toner with thinner.
7. Drill & Solder: Drill holes and solder components to complete the PCB.

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🔍 Project Purpose

This board serves as a PIC16F877A Breakout board, featuring:

• ZIF40 socket for easy IC insertion/removal
• On-board LM7805 regulator for stable 5V supply
• 16 MHz oscillator & capacitors for clock signal
• Pin headers for I/O interfacing
• Push button & resistor for reset or user input

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📸 Images

Schematics

Routing

Top View

Bottom View

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🧪 Safety Note

• Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when handling Ferric Chloride and thinner.
• Avoid direct contact with chemicals; they can cause burns or irritation.
• Dispose of chemicals responsibly according to your local hazardous waste guidelines.
• Keep all tools and chemicals out of reach of children.

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📄 License

This project is shared for educational purposes. Please give credit if you use it.

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📬 Contact

If you have feedback or suggestions, feel free to open an issue.

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