[OT]Homebrew PCB fabrication

[James Nugen]

woodelf wrote:

> The prices may be low but what about good cad software?
> Free or under $100 US would be nice.
> Here in Canada I was looking at about $75? setup and $1.00 can per sq 
> inch.
> Of course two boards minum. Unless you plan to do 3x4 inch pcb's or 
> thousands
> I too think getting the pros to do it is a better idea.

I use Eagle from CadSoft.  They support both Windows and Linux.  The 
freeware version has a few limitations, but the only one that caused a 
problem for me was the 80x100 mm board area restriction.  They also have 
a 'Non-Profit' version that is the same as their 'Standard Edition'.  
The board area is increased to 160x100 mm along with the other 
enhancements.  And it's only $125!

http://www.cadsoftusa.com/

The PCB house I've been using for my project is Sierra Proto Express.  
They have a pretty inexpensive service called 'No-Touch'.  They do a 
quick check of you files, make the boards, and send them to you.  Two 
layer is $34 per board and 4 layer is $51 per board, minimum two 
boards.  I've been happy with the boards they have made for me so far.

https://www.2justforyou.com/NASApp/sierraproject/jsp/tabs_welcome_home_.jsp

Hope this helps,
James Nugen