http://www.opencircuits.com/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=76.99.214.65&feedformat=atomOpenCircuits - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T17:40:57ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.34.2http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=PCB_Manufacturers&diff=18879PCB Manufacturers2009-10-17T01:59:05Z<p>76.99.214.65: Added a section for Screaming Circuits.</p>
<hr />
<div>The following is a user-submitted list of PCB manufacturers. Your results may vary.<br />
<br />
: ''This page lists "board houses" that take your custom PCB layout file and convert it to a custom printed circuit board (PCB) (ready for the next step: "assembly" adding parts). For "standard" prototyping PCBs, see [[stripboard]] and other [[techniques]].''<br />
<br />
''(FIXME: briefly mention the most relevant "capabilities": "preferred" and "minimum" trace width / spacing / via hole size / via pad diameter.''<br />
''Link directly to the manufacturer's "capability page" so readers can confirm these numbers for themselves.''<br />
''Boards that push the limit of manufacturability cost more than robustly designed boards that use preferred sizes.) For more details, see [[Submitting PCB's for fabrication]].)''<br />
<br />
=== homebrew fabrication ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-hobbyist-PCBs-with-professional-CAD-tools-by-/ capabilities]: (see also [[Techniques#Homebrew fabrication]])<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* 1-layer, FR-4, 0.062" thick<br />
* no-holes-plated<br />
* 0.031" (0.8mm) line/gap ... except for 0.020" (0.5 mm) gap between pads ... bigger if possible.<br />
* No mask<br />
* No legend<br />
* Minimum hole size 0.031" (0.8mm) diameter<br />
* minimum via: 0.031" (0.8mm) diameter, 0.024" (0.6mm) ring giving 0.080" (2 mm) outer diameter.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.ultimatepcb.com/ UltimatePCB] ===<br />
Best prices around for >2 layer boards. 4-layer boards up to 30 sq in. with 7/7 are $210 for 5, including shipping. Turn time is about 10 days including DHL from China. Service is not as fast as bigger outfits like Advanced Circuits, but still fine.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.batchpcb.com/ BatchPCB] ===<br />
<br />
* $2.50 / square inch + $10 setup: double-sided with silk screen and solder mask on both side.<br />
* $8.00 / square inch + $10 setup: 4 layer with silk screen and solder mask on both side.<br />
<br />
No minimum quantity.<br />
Must use your own software to generate Gerber files.<br />
Easy-to-use web ordering interface, but slow turnaround time -- sometimes 30 days.<br />
<br />
Sparkfun forum: [http://forum.sparkfun.com/viewforum.php?f=16 PCB Deal Details]<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.screamingcircuits.com/ Screaming Circuits] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.4pcb.com/ Advanced Circuits] ===<br />
Good online design rule checking, easy web ordering interface, and small standard trace/space tolerances. Students can order single PCB's for [http://www.33each.com/ $33 each].<br />
<br />
[http://petertodd.ca/tech/electronics/ Peter Todd] mentions "bare bones prototype: printed circuit boards" http://BareBonesPCB.com/ :<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* 2-layer, FR-4, 0.062" thick<br />
* All-holes-plated<br />
* 8-mil line/gap (?)<br />
* Cut to rectangle shape only<br />
* No mask<br />
* No legend<br />
* Minimum hole size 0.015"<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* 6 mil line, 10 mil gap on inner layers<br />
* 5 mil line/gap on outer layers (?)<br />
* 0.010 inch final finished hole size<br />
* minimum pad size: 0.024" (minimum [http://www.4pcb.com/index.php?load=content&page_id=15 0.014" over finished hole size ])<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.olimex.com/pcb/ Olimex] ===<br />
Bulgarian PCB manufacturer - 24 EUR (~$33) for a 6.3" by 3.9" board. I.E. cheaper than BatchPCB, but with a minimum board size requirement, and a more complicated ordering process. - shipping cost +8.5 EUR(~$12) outside of europe.<br />
<br />
They allow multiple designs per PCB, and will even panelize them for you.<br />
<br />
[http://olimex.com/pcb/dfm.html preferred]:<br />
* white component mark on one side<br />
* traces/spaces >= 0,254 mm (0,010")<br />
* via hole size: 0.6mm (0,024") ( standard drill tool: 0,7 mm (0,028") minus plating 0,1mm (0,004") ) ; via pad size: ???<br />
<br />
extra cost:<br />
* silkscreen both sides<br />
* minimum track/spaces: 0,203 mm (0,008")<br />
* minimum via hole size: ??? ; minimum via pad size: ???<br />
* using non-standard drill sizes<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.sunstone.com/ Sunstone Circuits] aka [http://www.pcb123.com/ PCB123] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
Sunstone Circuits<br />
<br />
Offsers three product lines:<br />
* Quickturn<br />
* Full-feature<br />
* PCB123<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/QuoteQt.aspx Quickturn] -<br />
<br />
Fixed (fast) leadtimes with restricted [http://www.sunstone.com/products-services.aspx capabilities]. Double-sided (with or without soldermask), 4 layer and 6 layer fabrication:<br />
<br />
* traces/spaces >= mm (0.006") (the [http://www.sunstone.com/pcb-resources/Downloads.aspx Sunstone DFM rules] mention preferred width: 0.006", clearance 0.010")<br />
* finished via hole size: mm (0.016") ; via pad size: 0.030"<br />
* Pre-set finish drill sizes: .016, .020, .025, .029, .033, .036, .040, .043, .046, .053, .061, .067, .080, .087, .093, .100, .110, .125, .141, .151, .167, .193, .251<br />
* power plane clearance: 0.012"<br />
* 2-side Solder Mask<br />
* 1-side Silkscreen<br />
* instant online quote<br />
* open quantities from 1 to 100<br />
* has "PCB123 - free PCB Design Software from Sunstone Circuits"<br />
<br />
extra cost:<br />
* 2-side silkscreen<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/QuoteFF.aspx Full-featured] -<br />
<br />
Wide range of capabilities, price depends on exact [http://www.sunstone.com/products-services.aspx specifications]. Instance online quote.<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/PCB123.aspx PCB123] -<br />
<br />
Sunstone's own free (proprietary) schematic and PCB layout software -- easy to use, but you are locked into using their service unless you're willing to pay $50 for gerber files from them. Integration with ordering system simplifies the process of ordering boards. Unrestricted design size, live quoting of diki-key parts withing the bill of materials view.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbexpress.com/ PCBexpress] === <br />
<br />
All orders submitted before noon ship the next day. UPS ground shipping is free. Since they are located in the Portland, OR area this means you can get a board overnight to most places in the Northwest US. <br />
<br />
Basic service is a two layer board routed to any size and shape. Two 9 sq inch boards for $63 (including shipping). Soldermask and silkscreen doubles the price.<br />
<br />
EAGLE CAM export and design rule check scripts are provided.<br />
<br />
PCBexpress is apparently a division of Sunstone Circuits Quickturn service.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbfabexpress.com/ PCBFABEXPRESS] === <br />
5 Boards for $60 ($12 ea. for 10 sq. inches) with a 5 day turn time. Good quality work, but turn times can be delayed if you have to correct any issues that don't meet their specs.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.apcircuits.com AP Circuits] ===<br />
'''2 boards, 2 layers next day shipping for as low as 7.95 each.''' or '''2 boards, 2 layers, 2 solder masks and legend one side for as low as 9.95 each. 3 Day Service''' <br />
<br />
Online quotes at http://www.apcircuits.com/ap/calculator <br />
<br />
Full CNC contour routing including plated slotting, oversize holes, internal cutouts for a modest fee<br />
<br />
Instructions for creating Gerber and NC output from many popular PCB programs are also on this site.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.e-teknet.com/ E-TekNet] ===<br />
4 2 layer boards for $19.89 each. Great prices for production board runs. Helpful staff.<br />
<br />
preferred: ''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.e-teknet.com/ProductPCB.htm maximum capabilities]:<br />
* minimum 0.004" (0.1 mm) trace/space<br />
* minimum finished hole size: 0.008" (0.2 mm)<br />
* Very low cost quick turn proto promo prices too<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.expressPCB.com/ ExpressPCB] === <br />
Free proprietary schematic and layout software, used for all board services (like PCB123). Simplifies the process of getting a board done and out, by vertically integrating the design and production flow. Fewer options and less power, but fewer ways to screw up.<br />
*Good deal on small prototypes: Mini-Board Service (3 identical boards, 2.5" X 3.8", doublesided, plated through, no silkscreen or soldermask) is priced well at $51 total, plus $10 shipping. Orders placed by 2PM ET ship the next business day by 2nd Day Air. <br />
*Capabilities(inches) [http://www.expresspcb.com/ExpressPCBHtm/SpecsProduction.htm Production]: Minimum trace width: 0.006". Minimum clearance: 0.006", preferred 0.010" . Perimeter clearance: 0.015", suggested 0.025". Holes - 23 sizes: 0.014"(via only), 0.020" - 0.251". Minimum Hole Spacing: 0.021" between edges. Vias/holes: 0.031"/0.014" -0.115"/0.052" . Pads/holes(round/square): 0.041"/.020" - 0.450"/0.251" . SMT: 0.010"x.070" - 0.420"x0.420" BGA: 0.012" - 0.020" . <br />
*Software features: SCH netchecks. PCB imports PADS netlists, and illuminates nets nodes to assist in connection. Built-in updated price quotes for all offered board services. Copy to clipboard available for schematic & silkscreen+pads(layers must be screen-captured.) Pretty good selection of components, pads, symbols, for free. <br />
*Notes: No Gerber support. Primitive single-level undo/redo. No PCB footprint selection/placement wizard from SCH info. No autorouting. SCH generates BOM, but PCB can't back-annotate (frustrating because most PCB footprints have Digikey part#s.) No net-based vendor integration. No scripting or plugins integration. Not enough keyboard shortcuts, uneditable.<br />
*Review: The company is responsive and responsible. The Mini-Board service is addictively cheap and fast, and the other proto and production services are good, if not the cheapest option. Board quality is high; fine traces held up perfectly. The software is stable and simple, but tedious work for high parts-count or high-density boards. <br />
*Conclusion: The sweet spot for ExpressPCB is sparse, simple, quickly-designed boards, at low and very high quantities. At any other density or complexity, might as well learn and use Eagle or KiCAD.<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcbcart.com/ PCBCART] ===<br />
Fast turnaround (~8days + shipping), instant online quotes. $30 tooling fee, under $2/sq in.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.speedypcb.com/ Speedy PCB Prototype] ===<br />
No minimum order, $9.9 for protos, no extra charge for soldermask, silkscreen, E-testing, very low price on 2, 4, 6 layers.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.yongxinya.com/en/about.asp YongXinYaPCB] ===<br />
quick turn prototype and vol production choice, based in CN, price competitive while quality guarantee, contact for more detail: georgehgm@gmail.com<br />
<br />
=== [http://rocacircuits.com/ Roca Printed Circuits] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcb4u.com/ Accutrace] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://ourpcb.com/ OurPCB] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
[http://ourpcb.com/price.php prototype prices]: 3 small 2 sided prototype boards for a total of $54 + $22 shipping.<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcb-pool.com/ppus/info.html PCB-POOL] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcbpro.com/ PCBpro] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://custompcb.com/ Custom PCB] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://myropcb.com/ Myro PCB] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://myropcb.com/fab.html capabilities]:<br />
<br />
4 small (max. 30 sq. inch) 2 sided prototype boards for a total of<br />
$80 + $35 shipping<br />
<br />
* Min. track/space 0.015 mm (0.006"). ''(This looks like a typo -- is it really 0.15 mm ?)''<br />
* 0.35 mm via hole (0.014")<br />
* 0.32 mm inner clearance (0.013").<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbnet.com/ Imagineering, Inc.] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
* [http://www.pcbnet.com/newcustomeroffer.asp $25 ea. for 2 layer board], including shipping, solder mask, and silkscreen, up to 60 sq.in. -- in qty 1<br />
* [http://www.pcbnet.com/newcustomeroffer.asp $50 ea. for 4 layer board], including shipping, solder mask, and silkscreen, up to 60 sq.in. -- in qty 1<br />
<br />
[http://www.pcbnet.com/p3.asp capabilities]:<br />
<br />
* min. track/space 0.08 mm (0.003")<br />
* ...<br />
* instant online quote<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.onboardcircuits.com/ Onboard Circuits] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.onboardcircuits.com printed circuit boards]:<br />
<br />
*Accurate, Fast PCB Quotes. OnBoardCircuits.com is the easiest Printed Circuit Board PCB quote site on the internet. We strive to make your purchasing process simple. From quick-turn prototype and ramp-to-volume production boards to full-scale production printed circuit boards, every phase is monitored and managed by highly qualified professionals.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.gcaero.com/ GC Aero] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.gcaero.com/htm/capabilities.htm capabilities:]<br />
<br />
"GC Aero specializes in the design and manufacture of flexible circuits and completed assemblies."<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.minco.com/products/flex.aspx Minco] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.minco.com/products/flex.aspx?id=112 capabilities:]<br />
<br />
"Minco has the ability to wind flat inductive coils and laminate them within flex circuits."<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.uniflexcircuits.com/ Uniflex Circuits] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.uniflexcircuits.com/capabilities.html capabilities:]<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* polyimide flex circuits<br />
* ''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* .003"/.003" Minimum Trace and Space on 0.5 oz. copper<br />
* .010" (drill size) Minimum Inner Diameter<br />
* .014" Minimum Annular Ring Over Drill Size<br />
* minimum pad size: 0.038" (calculated from min drill size + 2*annular ring)<br />
<br />
=== [http://pwtpcbs.com/ Printed Wiring Technologies Ltd] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.pwtpcbs.com/pwt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14 capabilities:]<br />
<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* FR4, Rogers 4003, Rogers 4350, Rogers RT/Duroid<br />
* "Lead Free HASL" or Gold surface<br />
* solder resist: Green, Green (Matt), Red, Blue, Black, or Clear<br />
* silkscreen: White, or Yellow<br />
* Minimum Track & Gap: 0.127mm (5 thou)<br />
* Minimum Hole (Drilled): 0.25mm<br />
* Minimum Annular Ring: 0.127mm (5 thou)<br />
* Minimum Inner Clearance: 0.254mm (10 thou)<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* minimum Track & Gap: 0.0762mm (3 thou)<br />
* minimum Hole (Drilled): 0.20mm<br />
* minimum Annular Ring 0.0762mm (3 thou)<br />
* Minimum Inner Clearance: 0.216mm (8.5thou)<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/pcba-service-c-12.html Seeed Studio] ===<br />
<br />
Hobbyists created studio with PCB/PCBA services, they have outstanding communication among Chinese. They have some $10 offer for rather small board and $89 for combined designs. A very good alternative if you don't need it in a rush, or in large volume. Eagle files are accepted too.<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/blog/?p=22 "An idea about open source PCBs"].<br />
<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/domino-pcb-service-cost-per-sqcm-p-68.html DOMINO PCB service]:<br />
$49 + $0.12 per sq.cm, .<br />
2 layers, silk screen both sides, soldermask both sides, free shipping.<br />
<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/propaganda-pcb-service-for-open-source-works-p-111.html Propaganda - PCB service for open source works]:<br />
$30 per board, qty 5, max 10cm*10cm each.<br />
2 layers, silk screen both sides, soldermask both sides, +shipping (?) -- must be open-source and allow seeedstudio to offer the boards to others.<br />
<br />
=== MicroConnex ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.microconnex.com/ MicroConnex]<br />
fabricates flex circuits including [http://www.microconnex.com/thin_film.html strain gauges].<br />
<br />
[http://www.microconnex.com/flex_capabilities.pdf capabilities]:<br />
<br />
* ...<br />
<br />
=== Circuits Unlimited ===<br />
Circuits Unlimited Inc.<br />
<br />
"Flexible circuit design, manufacturing, and assembly"<br />
<br />
[http://www.cuflex.com/ capabilities]:<br />
[http://www.flexiblecircuitry.com/ capabilities]:<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
<br />
single sided flex:<br />
12x12 panels 1oz copper with .001 Kapton on both sides.<br />
All solder pads on same side.<br />
Plating: HASL over all exposed copper.<br />
Stiffeners: 1 Kapton stiffener (.005 Kapton) and 1 FR4 stiffener PER design. <br />
<br />
double-sided flex:<br />
12x12 panels 1oz copper, 2 sides, with .001 Kapton on both sides.<br />
Plating: HASL over all exposed copper. Gold available at extra cost<br />
Stiffeners: 1 Kapton stiffener (.005 Kapton) and 1 FR4 stiffener PER design. <br />
<br />
"Summer Special":<br />
"$900.00 is the starting price for single and double sided flexible circuit designs."<br />
<br />
<br />
== Other fab lists ==<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other web sites with a short list of recommendations:<br />
* [http://www.electricstuff.co.uk/pcbs.html "How to make really really good homemade PCBs"] by Mike Harrison 2007<br />
* [http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/show?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A30196 "PCB fabbing advice"] by Chris Anderson 2008<br />
<br />
Other web sites with long lists of PWB fabricators:<br />
* http://massmind.org/techref/pcbfabs.htm<br />
* http://dmoz.org/Business/Electronics_and_Electrical/Contract_Manufacturing/Printed_Circuit_Boards/<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manufacturers]]<br />
[[Category:Suppliers]]</div>76.99.214.65http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=PCB_Manufacturers&diff=18876PCB Manufacturers2009-10-17T01:36:06Z<p>76.99.214.65: /* PCBEXPRESS */ the name is 'PCBexpress' not PCBEXPRESS.</p>
<hr />
<div>The following is a user-submitted list of PCB manufacturers. Your results may vary.<br />
<br />
: ''This page lists "board houses" that take your custom PCB layout file and convert it to a custom printed circuit board (PCB) (ready for the next step: "assembly" adding parts). For "standard" prototyping PCBs, see [[stripboard]] and other [[techniques]].''<br />
<br />
''(FIXME: briefly mention the most relevant "capabilities": "preferred" and "minimum" trace width / spacing / via hole size / via pad diameter.''<br />
''Link directly to the manufacturer's "capability page" so readers can confirm these numbers for themselves.''<br />
''Boards that push the limit of manufacturability cost more than robustly designed boards that use preferred sizes.) For more details, see [[Submitting PCB's for fabrication]].)''<br />
<br />
=== homebrew fabrication ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-hobbyist-PCBs-with-professional-CAD-tools-by-/ capabilities]: (see also [[Techniques#Homebrew fabrication]])<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* 1-layer, FR-4, 0.062" thick<br />
* no-holes-plated<br />
* 0.031" (0.8mm) line/gap ... except for 0.020" (0.5 mm) gap between pads ... bigger if possible.<br />
* No mask<br />
* No legend<br />
* Minimum hole size 0.031" (0.8mm) diameter<br />
* minimum via: 0.031" (0.8mm) diameter, 0.024" (0.6mm) ring giving 0.080" (2 mm) outer diameter.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.ultimatepcb.com/ UltimatePCB] ===<br />
Best prices around for >2 layer boards. 4-layer boards up to 30 sq in. with 7/7 are $210 for 5, including shipping. Turn time is about 10 days including DHL from China. Service is not as fast as bigger outfits like Advanced Circuits, but still fine.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.batchpcb.com/ BatchPCB] ===<br />
<br />
* $2.50 / square inch + $10 setup: double-sided with silk screen and solder mask on both side.<br />
* $8.00 / square inch + $10 setup: 4 layer with silk screen and solder mask on both side.<br />
<br />
No minimum quantity.<br />
Must use your own software to generate Gerber files.<br />
Easy-to-use web ordering interface, but slow turnaround time -- sometimes 30 days.<br />
<br />
Sparkfun forum: [http://forum.sparkfun.com/viewforum.php?f=16 PCB Deal Details]<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.4pcb.com/ Advanced Circuits] ===<br />
Good online design rule checking, easy web ordering interface, and small standard trace/space tolerances. Students can order single PCB's for [http://www.33each.com/ $33 each].<br />
<br />
[http://petertodd.ca/tech/electronics/ Peter Todd] mentions "bare bones prototype: printed circuit boards" http://BareBonesPCB.com/ :<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* 2-layer, FR-4, 0.062" thick<br />
* All-holes-plated<br />
* 8-mil line/gap (?)<br />
* Cut to rectangle shape only<br />
* No mask<br />
* No legend<br />
* Minimum hole size 0.015"<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* 6 mil line, 10 mil gap on inner layers<br />
* 5 mil line/gap on outer layers (?)<br />
* 0.010 inch final finished hole size<br />
* minimum pad size: 0.024" (minimum [http://www.4pcb.com/index.php?load=content&page_id=15 0.014" over finished hole size ])<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.olimex.com/pcb/ Olimex] ===<br />
Bulgarian PCB manufacturer - 24 EUR (~$33) for a 6.3" by 3.9" board. I.E. cheaper than BatchPCB, but with a minimum board size requirement, and a more complicated ordering process. - shipping cost +8.5 EUR(~$12) outside of europe.<br />
<br />
They allow multiple designs per PCB, and will even panelize them for you.<br />
<br />
[http://olimex.com/pcb/dfm.html preferred]:<br />
* white component mark on one side<br />
* traces/spaces >= 0,254 mm (0,010")<br />
* via hole size: 0.6mm (0,024") ( standard drill tool: 0,7 mm (0,028") minus plating 0,1mm (0,004") ) ; via pad size: ???<br />
<br />
extra cost:<br />
* silkscreen both sides<br />
* minimum track/spaces: 0,203 mm (0,008")<br />
* minimum via hole size: ??? ; minimum via pad size: ???<br />
* using non-standard drill sizes<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.sunstone.com/ Sunstone Circuits] aka [http://www.pcb123.com/ PCB123] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
Sunstone Circuits<br />
<br />
Offsers three product lines:<br />
* Quickturn<br />
* Full-feature<br />
* PCB123<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/QuoteQt.aspx Quickturn] -<br />
<br />
Fixed (fast) leadtimes with restricted [http://www.sunstone.com/products-services.aspx capabilities]. Double-sided (with or without soldermask), 4 layer and 6 layer fabrication:<br />
<br />
* traces/spaces >= mm (0.006") (the [http://www.sunstone.com/pcb-resources/Downloads.aspx Sunstone DFM rules] mention preferred width: 0.006", clearance 0.010")<br />
* finished via hole size: mm (0.016") ; via pad size: 0.030"<br />
* Pre-set finish drill sizes: .016, .020, .025, .029, .033, .036, .040, .043, .046, .053, .061, .067, .080, .087, .093, .100, .110, .125, .141, .151, .167, .193, .251<br />
* power plane clearance: 0.012"<br />
* 2-side Solder Mask<br />
* 1-side Silkscreen<br />
* instant online quote<br />
* open quantities from 1 to 100<br />
* has "PCB123 - free PCB Design Software from Sunstone Circuits"<br />
<br />
extra cost:<br />
* 2-side silkscreen<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/QuoteFF.aspx Full-featured] -<br />
<br />
Wide range of capabilities, price depends on exact [http://www.sunstone.com/products-services.aspx specifications]. Instance online quote.<br />
<br />
- [http://www.sunstone.com/PCB123.aspx PCB123] -<br />
<br />
Sunstone's own free (proprietary) schematic and PCB layout software -- easy to use, but you are locked into using their service unless you're willing to pay $50 for gerber files from them. Integration with ordering system simplifies the process of ordering boards. Unrestricted design size, live quoting of diki-key parts withing the bill of materials view.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbexpress.com/ PCBexpress] === <br />
<br />
All orders submitted before noon ship the next day. UPS ground shipping is free. Since they are located in the Portland, OR area this means you can get a board overnight to most places in the Northwest US. <br />
<br />
Basic service is a two layer board routed to any size and shape. Two 9 sq inch boards for $63 (including shipping). Soldermask and silkscreen doubles the price.<br />
<br />
EAGLE CAM export and design rule check scripts are provided.<br />
<br />
PCBexpress is apparently a division of Sunstone Circuits Quickturn service.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbfabexpress.com/ PCBFABEXPRESS] === <br />
5 Boards for $60 ($12 ea. for 10 sq. inches) with a 5 day turn time. Good quality work, but turn times can be delayed if you have to correct any issues that don't meet their specs.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.apcircuits.com AP Circuits] ===<br />
'''2 boards, 2 layers next day shipping for as low as 7.95 each.''' or '''2 boards, 2 layers, 2 solder masks and legend one side for as low as 9.95 each. 3 Day Service''' <br />
<br />
Online quotes at http://www.apcircuits.com/ap/calculator <br />
<br />
Full CNC contour routing including plated slotting, oversize holes, internal cutouts for a modest fee<br />
<br />
Instructions for creating Gerber and NC output from many popular PCB programs are also on this site.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.e-teknet.com/ E-TekNet] ===<br />
4 2 layer boards for $19.89 each. Great prices for production board runs. Helpful staff.<br />
<br />
preferred: ''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.e-teknet.com/ProductPCB.htm maximum capabilities]:<br />
* minimum 0.004" (0.1 mm) trace/space<br />
* minimum finished hole size: 0.008" (0.2 mm)<br />
* Very low cost quick turn proto promo prices too<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.expressPCB.com/ ExpressPCB] === <br />
Free proprietary schematic and layout software, used for all board services (like PCB123). Simplifies the process of getting a board done and out, by vertically integrating the design and production flow. Fewer options and less power, but fewer ways to screw up.<br />
*Good deal on small prototypes: Mini-Board Service (3 identical boards, 2.5" X 3.8", doublesided, plated through, no silkscreen or soldermask) is priced well at $51 total, plus $10 shipping. Orders placed by 2PM ET ship the next business day by 2nd Day Air. <br />
*Capabilities(inches) [http://www.expresspcb.com/ExpressPCBHtm/SpecsProduction.htm Production]: Minimum trace width: 0.006". Minimum clearance: 0.006", preferred 0.010" . Perimeter clearance: 0.015", suggested 0.025". Holes - 23 sizes: 0.014"(via only), 0.020" - 0.251". Minimum Hole Spacing: 0.021" between edges. Vias/holes: 0.031"/0.014" -0.115"/0.052" . Pads/holes(round/square): 0.041"/.020" - 0.450"/0.251" . SMT: 0.010"x.070" - 0.420"x0.420" BGA: 0.012" - 0.020" . <br />
*Software features: SCH netchecks. PCB imports PADS netlists, and illuminates nets nodes to assist in connection. Built-in updated price quotes for all offered board services. Copy to clipboard available for schematic & silkscreen+pads(layers must be screen-captured.) Pretty good selection of components, pads, symbols, for free. <br />
*Notes: No Gerber support. Primitive single-level undo/redo. No PCB footprint selection/placement wizard from SCH info. No autorouting. SCH generates BOM, but PCB can't back-annotate (frustrating because most PCB footprints have Digikey part#s.) No net-based vendor integration. No scripting or plugins integration. Not enough keyboard shortcuts, uneditable.<br />
*Review: The company is responsive and responsible. The Mini-Board service is addictively cheap and fast, and the other proto and production services are good, if not the cheapest option. Board quality is high; fine traces held up perfectly. The software is stable and simple, but tedious work for high parts-count or high-density boards. <br />
*Conclusion: The sweet spot for ExpressPCB is sparse, simple, quickly-designed boards, at low and very high quantities. At any other density or complexity, might as well learn and use Eagle or KiCAD.<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcbcart.com/ PCBCART] ===<br />
Fast turnaround (~8days + shipping), instant online quotes. $30 tooling fee, under $2/sq in.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.speedypcb.com/ Speedy PCB Prototype] ===<br />
No minimum order, $9.9 for protos, no extra charge for soldermask, silkscreen, E-testing, very low price on 2, 4, 6 layers.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.yongxinya.com/en/about.asp YongXinYaPCB] ===<br />
quick turn prototype and vol production choice, based in CN, price competitive while quality guarantee, contact for more detail: georgehgm@gmail.com<br />
<br />
=== [http://rocacircuits.com/ Roca Printed Circuits] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcb4u.com/ Accutrace] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://ourpcb.com/ OurPCB] ===<br />
<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
[http://ourpcb.com/price.php prototype prices]: 3 small 2 sided prototype boards for a total of $54 + $22 shipping.<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcb-pool.com/ppus/info.html PCB-POOL] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://pcbpro.com/ PCBpro] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://custompcb.com/ Custom PCB] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
=== [http://myropcb.com/ Myro PCB] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://myropcb.com/fab.html capabilities]:<br />
<br />
4 small (max. 30 sq. inch) 2 sided prototype boards for a total of<br />
$80 + $35 shipping<br />
<br />
* Min. track/space 0.015 mm (0.006"). ''(This looks like a typo -- is it really 0.15 mm ?)''<br />
* 0.35 mm via hole (0.014")<br />
* 0.32 mm inner clearance (0.013").<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.pcbnet.com/ Imagineering, Inc.] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
* [http://www.pcbnet.com/newcustomeroffer.asp $25 ea. for 2 layer board], including shipping, solder mask, and silkscreen, up to 60 sq.in. -- in qty 1<br />
* [http://www.pcbnet.com/newcustomeroffer.asp $50 ea. for 4 layer board], including shipping, solder mask, and silkscreen, up to 60 sq.in. -- in qty 1<br />
<br />
[http://www.pcbnet.com/p3.asp capabilities]:<br />
<br />
* min. track/space 0.08 mm (0.003")<br />
* ...<br />
* instant online quote<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.onboardcircuits.com/ Onboard Circuits] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.onboardcircuits.com printed circuit boards]:<br />
<br />
*Accurate, Fast PCB Quotes. OnBoardCircuits.com is the easiest Printed Circuit Board PCB quote site on the internet. We strive to make your purchasing process simple. From quick-turn prototype and ramp-to-volume production boards to full-scale production printed circuit boards, every phase is monitored and managed by highly qualified professionals.<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.gcaero.com/ GC Aero] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.gcaero.com/htm/capabilities.htm capabilities:]<br />
<br />
"GC Aero specializes in the design and manufacture of flexible circuits and completed assemblies."<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.minco.com/products/flex.aspx Minco] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.minco.com/products/flex.aspx?id=112 capabilities:]<br />
<br />
"Minco has the ability to wind flat inductive coils and laminate them within flex circuits."<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.uniflexcircuits.com/ Uniflex Circuits] ===<br />
''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
[http://www.uniflexcircuits.com/capabilities.html capabilities:]<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* polyimide flex circuits<br />
* ''(FIXME:)''<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* .003"/.003" Minimum Trace and Space on 0.5 oz. copper<br />
* .010" (drill size) Minimum Inner Diameter<br />
* .014" Minimum Annular Ring Over Drill Size<br />
* minimum pad size: 0.038" (calculated from min drill size + 2*annular ring)<br />
<br />
=== [http://pwtpcbs.com/ Printed Wiring Technologies Ltd] ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.pwtpcbs.com/pwt/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14 capabilities:]<br />
<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
* FR4, Rogers 4003, Rogers 4350, Rogers RT/Duroid<br />
* "Lead Free HASL" or Gold surface<br />
* solder resist: Green, Green (Matt), Red, Blue, Black, or Clear<br />
* silkscreen: White, or Yellow<br />
* Minimum Track & Gap: 0.127mm (5 thou)<br />
* Minimum Hole (Drilled): 0.25mm<br />
* Minimum Annular Ring: 0.127mm (5 thou)<br />
* Minimum Inner Clearance: 0.254mm (10 thou)<br />
<br />
minimum:<br />
* minimum Track & Gap: 0.0762mm (3 thou)<br />
* minimum Hole (Drilled): 0.20mm<br />
* minimum Annular Ring 0.0762mm (3 thou)<br />
* Minimum Inner Clearance: 0.216mm (8.5thou)<br />
<br />
=== [http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/pcba-service-c-12.html Seeed Studio] ===<br />
<br />
Hobbyists created studio with PCB/PCBA services, they have outstanding communication among Chinese. They have some $10 offer for rather small board and $89 for combined designs. A very good alternative if you don't need it in a rush, or in large volume. Eagle files are accepted too.<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/blog/?p=22 "An idea about open source PCBs"].<br />
<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/domino-pcb-service-cost-per-sqcm-p-68.html DOMINO PCB service]:<br />
$49 + $0.12 per sq.cm, .<br />
2 layers, silk screen both sides, soldermask both sides, free shipping.<br />
<br />
[http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/propaganda-pcb-service-for-open-source-works-p-111.html Propaganda - PCB service for open source works]:<br />
$30 per board, qty 5, max 10cm*10cm each.<br />
2 layers, silk screen both sides, soldermask both sides, +shipping (?) -- must be open-source and allow seeedstudio to offer the boards to others.<br />
<br />
=== MicroConnex ===<br />
<br />
[http://www.microconnex.com/ MicroConnex]<br />
fabricates flex circuits including [http://www.microconnex.com/thin_film.html strain gauges].<br />
<br />
[http://www.microconnex.com/flex_capabilities.pdf capabilities]:<br />
<br />
* ...<br />
<br />
=== Circuits Unlimited ===<br />
Circuits Unlimited Inc.<br />
<br />
"Flexible circuit design, manufacturing, and assembly"<br />
<br />
[http://www.cuflex.com/ capabilities]:<br />
[http://www.flexiblecircuitry.com/ capabilities]:<br />
<br />
preferred:<br />
<br />
single sided flex:<br />
12x12 panels 1oz copper with .001 Kapton on both sides.<br />
All solder pads on same side.<br />
Plating: HASL over all exposed copper.<br />
Stiffeners: 1 Kapton stiffener (.005 Kapton) and 1 FR4 stiffener PER design. <br />
<br />
double-sided flex:<br />
12x12 panels 1oz copper, 2 sides, with .001 Kapton on both sides.<br />
Plating: HASL over all exposed copper. Gold available at extra cost<br />
Stiffeners: 1 Kapton stiffener (.005 Kapton) and 1 FR4 stiffener PER design. <br />
<br />
"Summer Special":<br />
"$900.00 is the starting price for single and double sided flexible circuit designs."<br />
<br />
<br />
== Other fab lists ==<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other web sites with a short list of recommendations:<br />
* [http://www.electricstuff.co.uk/pcbs.html "How to make really really good homemade PCBs"] by Mike Harrison 2007<br />
* [http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/show?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A30196 "PCB fabbing advice"] by Chris Anderson 2008<br />
<br />
Other web sites with long lists of PWB fabricators:<br />
* http://massmind.org/techref/pcbfabs.htm<br />
* http://dmoz.org/Business/Electronics_and_Electrical/Contract_Manufacturing/Printed_Circuit_Boards/<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
[[Category:Manufacturers]]<br />
[[Category:Suppliers]]</div>76.99.214.65http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=PCB_Footprints&diff=18871PCB Footprints2009-10-15T01:48:39Z<p>76.99.214.65: </p>
<hr />
<div>{| class="wikitable"<br />
! Manufacturer !! Description !! Available footprints<br />
|-<br />
|Trimble || Lassen iQ GPS Module || [[Media:Trimble Lassen iQ GPS Module.zip|Protel]]<br />
|-<br />
|(none) || Compact Flash IDE Connector || [[Media:Compact Flash IDE connector.zip|Protel]]<br />
|-<br />
|Linx Technologies || RF transmitters, RF receivers and USB transcievers || [[Media:Linx_Technologies.zip|Protel]]<br />
|-<br />
|Spark Fun Electronics || [[SFE_Footprint_Library|Old SFE Footprint Library]] || [[Media:SFE-Custom-Footprints.zip|Protel]] <br />
|-<br />
|Spark Fun Electronics || [[SFE_Footprint_Library_Eagle| Updated Eagle SFE Footprint Library]] || [[Media:SparkFunEagle-3-2-07.zip|Eagle]] <br />
|-<br />
| Cypress || PSoC microcontrollers || [http://www.psocdeveloper.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1029 Protel], [http://www.psocdeveloper.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4147 Eagle]<br />
|-<br />
| Microchip || PIC microcontrollers || [http://www.geda.seul.org/links.html gEDA ?] [http://www.isl.ee.boun.edu.tr/projects/motordriver/ ORCAD ?]<br />
|-<br />
| Atmel || Atmel AVR || [http://agentj.osk-net.pl/index.php/ProtelLibraries Protel] (dead link)<br />
|-<br />
| Philips || ARM microcontrollers in LQFP-48 package || [http://k9spud.com/arm/lpc2103/ Eagle]<br />
|-<br />
| Various || Sarang: Many Protel libraries from Altium || [http://jp.altium.com/forms/libraries/p99se/library_list.asp Protel]<br />
|-<br />
| Misc. || Variety of footprints for gEDA/PCB || [http://www.luciani.org/geda/pcb/pcb-footprint-list.html PCB] [http://massmind.org/techref/app/PWB_libraries.htm Protel ] ||<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
==gEDA Symbols and footprints==<br />
*[[Media:GEDA_sym_footprint.zip|un-tested gEDA symbols and footprints]]<br />
**All of these Symbols are heavy symbols. gEDA has already provided most of the above symbols in light format for us to modify. The above symbols include more information than normal to save some time instead of configuring each symbol every time you use them.<br />
<br />
== Other footprint libraries ==<br />
<br />
[http://freelabs.com/~whitis/opensymbol/ "Open Symbol Project" with Mark Whitis (dead link)]<br />
"The Open Symbol Project aims to create an open collection of schematic symbols and PCB footprints released under a license that does not interfere with use in either commercial or free projects.<br />
...<br />
can easily be modified to accommodate various design rules."<br />
<br />
What can we do to help the Open Symbol Project?<br />
<br />
-----<br />
<br />
[http://www.pcb123.com/community/content/modules.php?name=screen_shots PCB123 Libraries] includes some footprint libraries (and a gallery of PCBs).<br />
<br />
----<br />
See also the [[SFE Footprint Library Eagle]].<br />
<br />
-----<br />
[http://www.luciani.org/geda/pcb/pcb-footprint-list.html "John Luciani's gEDA/PCB Library"]<br />
<br />
A collection of footprints for use with the gEDA/PCB program. Also on the site are a<br />
variety of scripts to build footprints and automate PCB layout tasks.<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
QFN footprints<br />
<br />
I'm a little intimidated by these little QFN packages.<br />
Alas, I've been asked to use a chip that doesn't have any alternative package.<br />
<br />
[http://focus.ti.com/general/docs/techdocsabstract.tsp?abstractName=slua271a "QFN/SON PCB Attachment Application Report: SLUA271"]<br />
<br />
[http://focus.ti.com/general/docs/techdocsabstract.tsp?abstractName=sloa122 "QFN Layout Guidelines: sloa122"]<br />
<br />
[http://www.schmartboard.com/index.asp?page=products_csp prototyping boards for Chip Scale (QFN) Packages from SchmartBoard]<br />
<br />
Any other tips?<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components]]</div>76.99.214.65http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=Components&diff=18701Components2009-09-20T01:52:51Z<p>76.99.214.65: Undo revision 18700 by Bestmodule (Talk)</p>
<hr />
<div>__NOTOC__<br />
<br />
= Passives =<br />
==== [[Resistors]] ====<br />
<br />
and Potentiometers<br />
<br />
==== [[Capacitors]] ==== <br />
==== Inductors see [[Other Passives]] ==== <br />
==== Transformers ==== <br />
==== [[Other Passives]] ====<br />
<br />
=== [[Microcontrollers]] ===<br />
Little Computers for your entertainment.<br />
<br />
=== [[Integrated Circuits | Other Integrated Circuits ]] ===<br />
[[Op amp|Op Amps]], Voltage Regulators, Drivers, Digitally Programmable Potentiometers, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Transistors, Diodes, etc.]] ===<br />
Diodes, Transistors are described here.<br />
<br />
=== [[Optoelectronics]] ===<br />
LEDs, photodiodes, optoisolators, LCDs, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Oscillator]] ===<br />
Crystals, Ceramic Resonators, oscillators, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Connectors]] ===<br />
<br />
=== [[battery|Batteries]] ===<br />
Power Up.<br />
<br />
=== [[Enclosures]] ===<br />
<br />
=== [[Sensors]] ===<br />
Accelerometers, Gyroscopes, Temperature Sensors, Pressure Sensors, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Switches|Switches and Relays]] ===<br />
Turn things on and off.<br />
<br />
=== [[Motors]] ===<br />
Make thing move.<br />
<br />
=== [[Modules]] ===<br />
GPS, Mobile Phone, RF Transceiver, Bluetooth Modules, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Popular Parts]] ===<br />
So many parts to pick, but which ones? Why not pick a popular part, or a group of parts for areas of interest?<br />
<br />
=== Component [[Manufacturers]] ===<br />
Links to homepages, phone numbers, contact info, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[PCB Manufacturers]] ===<br />
contact info, PCB trace width/spacing capability, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Suppliers]] ===<br />
Good places to buy, numbers to call, people to talk to, ...<br />
<br />
=== [[Bargains]] ===<br />
Get it cheap ( but is it cheap? ).<br />
<br />
=== [[Free Samples]] ===<br />
Free is nice.<br />
<br />
=== [[Free From Salvage]] ===<br />
Dig in, to the free stuff, a list of links and a bunch of ideas on how to use your loot.<br />
<br />
=== [[Salvage Ideas]]===<br />
<br />
Unusual ideas for the fruits of your labor.<br />
<br />
=== [[demo board]] ===<br />
<br />
Lots of people put a microprocessor and most of the other essential stuff on a tiny little demo board, easy to plug into your solderless breadboard (or your custom PCB) that has just a few more things that make your project special.<br />
<br />
=== data sheets ===<br />
<br />
You will want data sheets for you parts.<br />
Check:<br />
* original manufacturer<br />
* parts distributor<br />
* http://www.datasheetcatalog.com/<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Components]]</div>76.99.214.65http://www.opencircuits.com/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=18665Main Page2009-09-01T21:47:33Z<p>76.99.214.65: /* Components */ We don't use Ellipsis here!</p>
<hr />
<div>Open Circuits is a wiki for sharing [[open source electronics]] knowledge, schematics, board layouts, ports and parts libraries. This include open hardware [[Music Player]]s, [[atomic microscope]]s, [[PC]], [[PDA]] and [[Open Mobile Gadgets|mobile phone]]s, and [[battery|batteries]]. Please help us to build this resource by submitting your component descriptions, projects, techniques, and PCB footprints.<br />
<br />
<br />
== [[Projects]] and [[Ideas]] ==<br />
Descriptions, instructions, board layouts, and other documentation for electronics<br />
* [[projects]] and <br />
* [[ideas]].<br />
<br />
== [[Components]] ==<br />
Lists of components, where to purchase them, how to use them. For many components there are links to projects using that particular component, this is especially true for microcontrollers, for example follow the links down to PIC microcontrollers and you will find many project links as well as tutorials.<br />
<br />
== [[Basic Circuits and Circuit Building Blocks ]] ==<br />
Circuits you will use over and over.<br />
<br />
== [[Techniques]] ==<br />
How to do things.<br />
<br />
== [[Tutorials]] ==<br />
How to understand and plan what you are doing. These are for general theory, more specific information is linked to its topic.<br />
<br />
== [[PCB Footprints]] ==<br />
Don't reinvent the wheel. Known working open PCB footprints for various components.<br />
<br />
== [[Got A Blog, Wiki or Website?]] ==<br />
<br />
Link to it on the [[Got A Blog, Wiki or Website?]] or [[WikiNode]] page.<br />
<br />
== [[Got a Technical Question?]] ==<br />
Perhaps it will be answered, perhaps not. Google for it first in the spirt of RTFM. Please do not ask us to do a school project for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
== [[Meta Open Source ]] ==<br />
Not projects or information on projects, but stuff about the open source movement ( mostly hardware ) itself.<br />
<br />
== [[Open Hardware Initiatives ]] ==<br />
The '''Open Source Movement''', typically covers '''Open Hardware''', '''Open Firmware''', and '''Open Software'''.<br />
<br />
'''Open Hardware''' is the hardware equivalent of the '''Open Source Software''' movement originally developed by [http://www.gnu.org GNU/Linux] and the [http://www.fsf.org Free Software Foundation]. <br />
<br />
The '''Open Firmware''' movement provides firmware (i.e.: micro-code specifically related to the subcoding of hardware devices) which you may also know as '''soft-IP''' or '''FPGA''' coding see [http://www.opencores.org Open Cores] for more details.<br />
<br />
Excellent examples of Open Hardware projects range from projects at ''OpenCircuits'' to [http://www.ethernut.de Tiny Embedded Ethernet Devices] and [http://www3.elphel.com Advanced & Intelligent Camera Designs] which provide solid-state camera and FPGA assisted hardware designs. A solid overview of projects can also be found at [http://open-innovation-projects.org/project-list/ Open Innovation Projects].<br />
<br />
== Licenses ==<br />
<br />
The most common "open hardware" licenses are the [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/ Creative Commons Licenses] and the [http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/gpl.html GNU General Public License].<br />
The GNU people wrote the [http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq.html#DoesTheGPLAllowMoney the GPL FAQ]<br />
to deal with common questions and misunderstandings of the GPL.<br />
The GNU people go on to say<br />
: "We encourage people who redistribute free software to charge as much as they wish or can. If this seems surprising to you, [http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/selling.html please read on." -- GNU: "Selling Free Software"]<br />
<br />
For example, Linksys makes money selling (among other things) their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linksys_WRT54G_series Linksys WRT54G series] routers, which use Linux under the GPL license.<br />
<br />
To understand what your entitlements and responsbilities are under the applicable licence(s); each hardware, firmware and/or software peice you have either copied, modified, developed using tools provided or if you intend distributing your development, you '''MUST''' read each and every licence, and be specifically aware that you may not mix such licence(s) together unless they can co-exist under one umbrella licence. For example you may modify, copy, enhance and distribute parts your project which are all under the same licence e.g.: [http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/gpl.html GNU General Public] or [[Open Circuits:Copyrights]].<br />
<br />
== Help Us Make Open Circuits Better ==<br />
<br />
What are we:<br />
<br />
Looks like we are defining this by way of who contributes and what. I ( [[russ_hensel]] ) am a new member so may or may not have it right.<br />
This is what I think:<br />
<br />
*An introduction to Electronic theory, suitable for the hobbyist.<br />
<br />
*Guide to locating and using components and tools.<br />
<br />
*Details on how to build various projects.<br />
<br />
*Building some sense of community among builders.<br />
<br />
There are two means of carrying this out:<br />
<br />
*Write material for the site or<br />
<br />
*Link to material you may have written or have located on the web. There is so much stuff on the web that lets not write it here unless it is at least somewhat unique. <br />
<br />
What do you think, discuss it here if very general, else on the discussion page ( link at top of page ).<br />
<br />
See also:<br />
<br />
*[[We love volunteers]]<br />
*[[Help:contents]]<br />
*[[Spam]] What should we do about it, it is a real problem now ( Feb 08 ).<br />
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