Labeling Circuit Boards

[Atom058]

Hello - I build a lot of prototype single-layer circuit boards. I use the photo-resist etching method to do the circuit and it works great. Does anyone have suggestions on how to (inexpensively and easily) label the component side of the board? The boards look great until I put my chicken-scratch labels on them. Thanks!

[skimask]

Actual component labels (i.e. U1, R22, C33) ?
Or 'This PCB made by me!' type label off to the side?

[Atom058]

Sorry, I should have been more clear - labeling components, similar to the silk-screening that you see on production boards. It would be nice to find a clear peel-and-stick sheet that you can print on and then stick onto the board, but that would mean that I have to drill through it. I have also seen some iron-on transfer stuff but it all looks like it is to put the circuit layout on the copper surface of the board. Don't know how it would work on the component side...

[skimask]

Peel - and - stick...
I've used that 'sticker paper' from Staples (just what it means, like making stickers for kids stuff and whatever) and printed a 'silk screen' layer on that. Print on one side, peel it back and stick it to whatever.
http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/p4__229317_Business_Supplies_0_10051_SC1:CG10:CL14 1391
Problem is, like you said, you have to cut and/or drill it away wherever you want to solder.
It looks halfway decent though...halfway...:D

[Atom058]

Thanks! I'll give it a try... I was hoping for something clear, though, but I don't see a problem with white...

Thanks again!

[skimask]

Thanks! I'll give it a try... I was hoping for something clear, though, but I don't see a problem with white...


Only the back of the paper is white. The front that gets the ink from the printer is clear. Once you peel it back and stick it to something, like a window, it's clear. Not 100% see thru, but close enough for me.

[Atom058]

Skimask - Then that is exactly what I need! Thanks so much!

[dhouston]

I used transparent labels (Avery, I think) on a CD card product. It's very similar to the sticker paper so the latter should work.

This should be OK for onesies and twosies but for anything more I would use double-sided copper boards and make the labels in the copper.