Fully software controlled PCB hole-position processing system

Abstract

The purpose of the thesis is to design and realize a microprocessor-based system to process and simulate the drilling of hole-positions in printed circuit boards under software control. System is based on Z-80 microprosessor which controls a stepper motor driven mechanical moving stage scanner. Scan-control, detection and drilling of hole-positions are performed by the Z-80 microprocessor-based card which is connected to the drivers of the stepper motors through which the power requirements of the motors are supplied during acceleration, steering and deceleration of the mechanical stages. In the developed system, hardware is minimized, giving all possible controls to the software. System can also be viewed as an intelligent system, since the detection of hole positions is done by optical means but not manually. Also, the drilling process utilizes optimum-path concepts, minimizing drilling time.