Wire Wrapping on Perfboard to Create Circuit

Previously we talked about some boards which a beginner should use to create circuits with basic electronic components. Wire Wrapping Makes Components Reusable Which is Great For the Hobbyists. In this guide, we are listing the tools for Wire Wrapping on Perfboard to create circuit. Wire Wrapping is almost a lost art, partially due to direct soldering, usage of breadboard and needless to say – PCB.

Basics of Wire Wrapping on Perfboard to Create Circuit

A correctly made wire wrap connection for 30 or 28 AWG wire is seven turns of bare wire with half to one and a half turns of insulated wire at the bottom for strain relief. The square hard gold-plated post in this way forms 28 redundant contacts. The silver plated wire coating cold welds to the gold. If corrosion occurs, it occurs on the outside of the wire, not on the gas tight contact where oxygen cannot penetrate to form oxides. A correctly designed wire wrap tool applies up to twenty tons of force per square inch on each joint. Adafruit has a perfboard which has breadboard layout. Ordinary perfboard costs just lesser – one tenth of Adafruit’s perfboard. At this point, one need to select cost effective yet good quality board. Rule is same – wiring will be on opposite side of the board.

Tools Needed For Wire Wrapping

We are listing the tools which are perfect for using wire wrapping at current scenario. Not all tools, wires used in 1970s computers are available today or are cost effective.
Wire wrap pins, sockets are actually different and lost from current mainstream. The electronic parts needs to be plugged into sockets. The components needed to be soldered with sockets for stability. Whether sockets with components will be soldered for stability that depends on practical matters.

1. Hand wrap/unwrap tools or wrapping bits for electric screwdriver. RadioShack #276-1570 is a standard wrap/unwrap tool. These wire wrap tools are for 30 Gauge wires. Cost will be around $15 for good quality tool.
2. Wire wrap needs 30 Gauge solid insulated wire with thin insulation, usually sold as roll. Cost will be around $15 for good quality roll.
3. Solder may be needed
4. May be wire stripper, plier
5. If you use gold coated Male Header Pins, they must not be round. Wire wrap pins, sockets are still available at some online shops.
6. Practice

Here are some god articles and resources :