5.5-5.8 Systems: stock forms, processes, specialist processes, treatments GapFill

Machinery can be used to speed up the prototyping process. For example, a CNC milling machine can be used to   engrave copper PCBsapply a surface finishfix components to a PCBstrip wires in an electrical system.   In order to program a CNC milling machine, a   CAD modelCAM modelbudgetquality control check needs to be produced digitally and then sent with specified instructions.   Shaping techniques can also be used when producing high-quality prototypes.  Rotational mouldingInjection mouldingLine bending Vacuum forming is a common method used when making an outer casing from thermoforming plastic.   Laser cutting is a wastage CNC method that can be used to   cut outconstructfilesand wooden or plastic components for the outer casing.   A more modern method used to help produce prototypes is   3D printingblow mouldinginjection mouldingCNC milling. This is an additive process that creates polymer forms using digital design and manufacture methods such as CAD.   A useful piece of equipment when constructing a high-quality prototype is a  file hand drillhacksawpencil. This allows for free movement when creating holes for fixture components.  A PCB holds most of the electrical components that give function to an electronic system. It is usually located and fixed to the outer casing. This can be done by  gluing screwingboltingnailing it to a raised piece of material or mounting it onto a surface.   The cables that connect all of these internal components together also need to be managed. This can be done by using  nailsstaplesscrews cable ties or tape to prevent them from getting tangled.   Printed circuit boards are the most common method used to make circuits, and are coated in a thin layer of   coppergoldsilveraluminium, a very conductive and relatively low-cost material.   Solder, which is the material used to make connections between the circuit board and the components, is made from tin and  ironaluminiumcopper lead and it melts at a relatively very low temperature.   The outer casing that contains an electrical system can be decorative, so physical properties are important. Properties such as the surface hardness of an aluminium handheld torch can be modified through a technique known as  varnishingoiling anodisingwaxing, which is a process that also allows the colour of the surface to be changed.   Electrical wires need to be  coveredstripped insulatedconducted so they do not short circuit or damage anything with a high voltage.   Resistors need to be in order for them to be used correctly in a circuit . This is done with  heightcolour-coded spots colour-coded bandswidth.   The outer PVC coating needs to be removed from an insulated cable to expose the wire inside, and  a guillotine isside cutters area soldering iron is wire strippers are used to remove this safely.