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Photo fabrication for PCB's

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Johnson777717

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Heya folks!
Does anyone know how to create a power supply for a fluroescent lamp? I don't have one of these lying around, so I can't see how it works, and what kinds of connections are made.

What I'm trying to do:
I'm interested in getting into the Photodevelopment PCB fabrication process, and I don't want to simply purchase a light fixture for making the PCB's, for two reasons.

1. I believe I can make a similar fixture for a fraction of the cost.
2. I'd like to learn how fluroescent lamps are "wired" or how they work etc.

Another question that I have regards the type of lamp bulb to use for the photo PCB fabrication process. I can order a specific lamp which comes with the normal kit for about $9. Are there any alternatives to spending $9 on a replacement lamp? If so, what kind of lamp should I purchase for this? I took a stroll by the lamp section at a local hardware store, and they have a few different types of lamp bulbs. I didn't see a bulb which advertised "UV light" so I'm assuming I may need to go with the lamp bulb that the PCB fabricator offers???

Has anyone else taken the back road approach to setting up a UV lamp for the photo PCB fab process?

Thank you for your time, and any assistance that you can provide. Have a good one!
 
I haven't built a lamp/timer assy (yet), I just use a clamp-on desk lamp with two fluorescent blacklight bulbs in it. The bulbs I used are F15T8BL. I did a quick "google" and found a source for $5US each (considerably less than what I paid!) I've always had good results with these, as they were recommended by the PCB mfg. Here's the link:
**broken link removed**
I also have a horseshoe shaped UV lamp I picked up on eBay for a few bucks (couldn't pass it up) but I haven't used it yet. I use my lamps at about 4 inches from the PCB, for about 4-5 minutes (experimentation on exposure times required here on your part to get suitable results, depends on your artwork opacity). JB
 
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