Hi Phil:

I checked out the Batch PCB web page and for me there are a number of 
problems:
(1) the ExpressPCB software for schematic capture and confirming the 
layout is very easy to use and free but learning to use Eagle or one of 
the other PCB layout programs (that may or may not have linkage to the 
schematic) seems like a lot of extra work.
(2) Express PCB has an extensive library of symbols for the schematic 
capture program and a similar set of footprints for the PCB layout program.
(3) The total turnaround time is a few days for EPCB vs 2 or 3 weeks for 
Batch PCB.
(4) When the EPCB Standard or Production service is used the cost comes 
way down as the quantity goes up.
(5) The free Eagle software is limited to 4 x 3.2 inches and non profit 
use.  The limit at ExpressPCB is 12 x 14 inches.
The cost per square inch is lower at Express PCB
So for now I'll stay with http://www.ExpressPCB.com

Thanks for the pointer,

Brooke Clarke

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Date: Sun, 12 Feb 2006 08:35:30 -0800
From: Phil Keller <Phil@pkeller.net>
Subject: Re: [EE] Prototype Board Thru-hole & Surface Mount?
To: PICLIST Post <piclist@mit.edu>
Message-ID: <43EF63D2.4010500@PKeller.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Brooke,

  Not sure what you consider prohibitive but you might take a look at 
BatchPCB (www.batchpcb.com) from Sparkfun.  They offer inexpensive PCB's 
in about 3 weeks.  At $2.50 per square inch plus $10.00 setup fee plus 
shipping it's not too bad.

Phil

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