Question on pcb traces?

arcaderookie

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Not sure, if I put this in the right place or not. Hope I did though. I was wanting to know a good way to fix a pcb trace. What things will I need, and dont need to do so. I seen where I can get a conductive pen. Do they work well or am I wasting my money on it. Do they have different size pens too. Just need some direction.


Thanks In advance
 
Usually a jumper wire is installed in order to replace a pcb trace. The pens you are talking about may be useable but you have to be sure you are replacing a low amperage line or the new trace will likely burn quickly.
 
I wouldn't use a conductive pen anywhere where a simple jumper would work, soldered wire is infinitely more reliable and durable, pens are more appropriate where soldering isn't an option because of heat or because of the materials involved. If it's going to be a long run consider using dabs of non-conductive epoxy to anchor it down so you don't accidentally pull it off later, with some patience everything can be made as reliable and rock-solid as the original traces.
Also either use a Xacto blade to scape off the silk screening to expose the trace's copper for soldering or preferably use a pencil eraser to simply wear it off, it takes come effort but leave the trace in much better shape. Also invest in a decent soldering iron if you don't already have one, not one of those cheapo $10 pieces of excrement that you can pick up anywhere which are like soldering with a heated chip of flint, Weller makes some really good low-budget irons.

I used to work on PCBs as a trade so if you have any questions feel free to PM me.
 
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