Cutting electroless copper costs

Abstract

Few processes in the modern PCB shop engender as much fear and loathing as the electroless copper line. Voids, rough deposits, and the plate-outs are the cost-driving headaches in any of this process. Production is ever fearful of this process sudden malfunction while management loathes its high costs. Examining some of the details of the operation can reduce the degree of pain and expense involved. Electroless solutions are inherently unstable. Continuously filtering the solution and using an autodoser will help avoid plate-out, but the best prevention is experience.