The LosT ArT of sTrip
BoArd
proToTyping
By Louis Dratwa
These days, we see many forms of ready-to-go development platforms such
as the Arduino and Raspberry Pi which are primarily SMT component
based. Not long ago, if you wanted a similar device you would build it
using a copper clad strip board. One manufacturer of these prototype
boards is Vero ( www.verotl.com).
Many techs of yester year built heir projects on a breadboard, then would transfer everything to a mirror copper clad board. I
built a development Vero board project
(Figure 1) based on the Microchip
PIC16F877A-04 10 years ago. Most
PICs are still available in through hole
packages, along with common transistors,
diodes, and resistors.
48
June 2013
Having been an electronic technician
for over 30 years (and still employed
today), I have built countless Vero board
circuits for both protyping and functional
every day use. My experience using Vero
boards has helped me be a better printed
circuit board (PCB) layout designer. I
recommend you give these timeless
techniques a try.