Converting An Inkjet Printer To Print PCBs

Proof that no piece of technology is ever truly outdated, maker Ryan Pourcillie has converted an Epson C86 inkjet printer to print PCBs onto copper clad boards positioned on a modified metal print tray. Armed with a Dremel, and making many clever modifications to the printer chassis, his printer has been converted to print using a special ink that resists etching chemistry, all the while fooling the sensor into believe it is printing on paper! After several printing tests, and failures, Ryan achieved success and can now print an even-coated PCB without worrying about doing a thermal transfer of the etch mask.

Now instead of throwing out his antiquated printer, Ryan has entered his mod in the Project Remake Contest, which asks makers to submit functional or simple beautiful projects built from would-be landfill fodder. Ryan is now entered to possibly win one of five MakerBot Replicators and has a shot at an all-expenses paid trip to World Maker Faire in NYC this September! Submit your project to Project Remake today for your own chance to win these prizes!

See Ryan’s entire project instructions here.

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Calling all remakers, upcyclers, found object artists, and refuse miracle makers! Win a MakerBot Replicator and a trip to World Maker Faire in NYC! Submit your idea to Project Remake, presented by Schick.