How can i print something thats in a pdf format?
You would have to find a converter that can change the format to something that a 3D modeling software can use. I have no idea if something that that exists though.
Im trying to convert the 1:1 scale pdf of my PCB top paste layer into something i can 3d print. Or something i can import into a modeling program to extrude it to .2mm
Your original question is extremely vague. Without your follow up I would have no way to give you an accurate answer.
As for exporting a layer from a PDF, you really can’t. Try to hide all layers aside from that one in your pcb software and then export the outlines you need into a dxf. Then open that dxf in your cad software and extrude it. Done this a lot in Eagle.
Huh. How do i export to Dxf? Can you point me to a tutorial? I was following sparkfun’s tutorial they export to pdf but then they use a plotter to cut it out of vinyl and im looking to print it. I really dont want to spend $35 on a stencil for a prototype so im hoping to print one out
I have no context as to what software you are using. Need more info
Im using eagle CAD
File -> export -> dxf
Only export your outline and whatever layer you want. Honestly though, I’ve tried what you’re doing. It doesn’t work well. Go to oshstencils and get a cheap kapton stencil.
And what 3d modeling program can read the dxf file? Will it work on fusion 360? And i know its not perfect but its for a 1 shot thing
In the time it takes you to figure all that out and wait for a 3D print that’s not likely going to work anyway, you could’ve used a small syringe or just a pin and put solder paste on the pads manually and be done with it. Why over complicate things?
Something you can easily google. Problem solving 101.
@Ashley_M_Kirchner_No has it right though. A stencil is great if you have really fine pitch parts but otherwise a syringe is the way to go.
All 0603 components and i really dont feel like spending that much time. I havent ordered the PCBs yet but i want to make sure i can make a stencil at home so i dont have to pay extra to make one. Because if the PCB turns out to be usable theres gonna be 30 of them in the same shipment (same price as ordering 5)
I’ve been making small electronics for several years now. Take it from me, $25 for a piece of kapton stencil is well worth it, even if it turns out you have a mistake on the board. Look at the time you’re spending NOW trying to figure out how to print one. It’s a waste of time.
Search Youtube, there are some folks able to laser engrave a kapton sheet with a layout. Cutting doesn’t work because the heat melts the plastic and you end up raised edges, but engraving appears to work. I’ve never tried it. $25 to save countless hours of figuring this out, and/or go over multiple boards is worth it.
Yeah i see your point
I use Ohararp for my stencils. They charge $25 for a full stencil sheet, meaning if your design is 1x1", it’s $25, if it’s a full 8x10, it’s still $25. If you have different layouts, you can have up to 6 DIFFERENT ones on the same sheet, and it’s still $25.
Cool!
If the PDF is 2D then Adobe Illustrator should be able to open/import it. Then you could export that artwork as a DXF. It seems like the stencil suggestions make more sense if you don’t know and have Illustrator.
Dare I say it but windows 3d builder has an image importer. If you can convert the pdf to jpg for example