Free Republic
Browse · Search
Bloggers & Personal
Topics · Post Article

To: ilgipper

Not really but close.

3d printers don’t really do circuit boards at the moment and they do not do micro chips. However, with modifications to the 3d printer’s head (3d printing with a Dremel tool) it is possible to etch out circuit boards. That requires significant changes to the head end, the existing electronics, the slicing software, etc to switch between the two “modes”.

Given the cost of pre-built electronics vs the time required .... it is just easier to buy for most.


11 posted on 12/02/2014 9:43:37 PM PST by taxcontrol
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 3 | View Replies ]


To: taxcontrol

I have to admit this whole concept is beyond my understanding. I don’t get how a printer can create things like car parts or guns. It is mind blowing to me.


12 posted on 12/02/2014 9:52:32 PM PST by ilgipper
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 11 | View Replies ]

To: taxcontrol

You don’t use 3D printers to make circuits. But you do use inkjet printers or regular gravure or offset printing processes. Printed Electronics has been the next big thing for a decade now. See: http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Printed_electronics


13 posted on 12/02/2014 9:53:55 PM PST by ProtectOurFreedom
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 11 | View Replies ]

To: taxcontrol

In the 1970’s I was screen printing PC boards with photographic methods. Still have the equipment. Anything that can be printed on paper or transparent sheets can be transferred to copper foil on G10 fiberglass PC board. It was precision of it’s day. Simple mass production.

Lithography


27 posted on 12/03/2014 3:29:17 AM PST by Texas Fossil (Texas is not where you were born, but a Free State of Heart, Mind & Attitude!)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 11 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
Bloggers & Personal
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson