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THE ETHERNET DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Part 1: Putting it all Together
by Fred Eady

Start ý Overview ý Elmerýs Silicon Glue ý Time to Kill ý The CS8900A-CQ ý Software and Firmware ý ICSP and LVP ý Assemble the Ethernet Electronics ý No Floating Allowed ý Installing the Bypass Capacitors ý Pin Point ý Finishing Installation ý Assemble the PIC16F877 Electronics ý The Rest of the Project ý Winding Down ý Finishing Up ý Sources and PDF

ASSEMBLE THE ETHERNET ELECTRONICS

Iýll have lots more to say about the firmware and software later. Right now, letýs continue putting the Ethernet and PIC16F877 hardware together. Because the main component, the CS8900A-CQ, is packaged using surface-mount technology, I decided to dive in and make everything I could on the Ethernet Development Board SMT as well. I weighed the consequences of providing a kit with tiny components versus giving you a kit of dinosaur parts. I even discussed the pros and cons with Circuit Cellar Onlineýs George Martin. After all was said and done, I decided to build an SMT version of the Ethernet Development Board myself before pushing it out to you.

Overall, I was pleased with the results and found that there are things you must do differently to be a successful SMT circuit builder. The first and most important thing is to get the correct soldering equipment. I was leaning towards hot air but decided that the cost was too high and not everyone would have access to such a device. I finally settled on a standard sort of soldering iron.

I chose the Metcal SP200 SmartHeat soldering system. Itýs a bit pricey ($300), but it turned out to be worth every penny. I chose a fine conical Metcal tip designed for SMT work (SSC-645A), ordered a roll of just as fine solder, put on my magnifiers, and went to work. I figured it would be easier for you to find a similar soldering tip than to purchase or borrow a hot air station.

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