5 Precautions to Take When Fabricating PCBs

Certain precautions need to be taken when working with Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). These precautions need to be taken at all stages of PCB fabrication.

Precautions to Take When Fabricating PCBs

When working around PCBs, certain precautions needs to be followed for your own safety.

1. The different steps involved in PCB fabrication are complex. Hence, it is important for the fabricator to work in a well-lit place. A visually enhanced workplace will ensure that the technician/ engineer work with maximum efficiency. 
2. Since the PCB comprises many small components. It is imperative to work with forks and pins of the appropriate sizes. This will ensure accurate installation and keep you from causing any damage to the components. 
3. Wearing the right safety gear will ensure that you are protected at all times. Wearing goggles is important to protect your eyes from any undesirable fumes emitted by the acids used, as well as from any parts that may fly off if not handled properly. Hand gloves are also essential during the entire fabrication process. Protective gloves will keep you safe from any harmful effects of chemicals used during the fabrication process. Most gloves will also provide you with better grip. 
4. When checking the connection of the PCB, ensure that the power source is functioning well and is compatible with the voltage required by the PCB. Using the wrong voltage can lead to electric shocks, short circuits, and other such problems. 
5.  As the final step, it is important to check all the connections and installation of the components. Loose connections are the primary source for short circuits. The components need to be firmly installed onto the PCB.

If you are unsure about any procedure, you should consult a manual, professional, or your vendor. Following these steps should help increase your efficiency when designing and fabricating PCBs. Safe and secure handling of the PCB is essential for your own safety as well as to create a well-functioning PCB.