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.
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
- 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
- Design: Create the schematic & PCB layout using EasyEDA.
- Print: Print the mirror image layout on glossy photo paper using a laser printer.
- Prepare Board: Cut copper clad board and clean with sandpaper/steel wool.
- Transfer Toner: Place printed layout on copper board and press with a hot iron (5–10 mins). Fill missing traces with a permanent marker.
- Etching: Immerse in FeCl₃ solution until unwanted copper is removed.
- Clean: Remove toner with thinner.
- Drill & Solder: Drill holes and solder components to complete the PCB.
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
Schematics
Routing
Top View
Bottom View
- 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.
This project is shared for educational purposes. Please give credit if you use it.
If you have feedback or suggestions, feel free to open an issue.