Electronic – How to read the text printed on top of every IC

components

I find very difficult to read part numbers. I haven't figured out how which kind the ideal amount of light and inclination would help me.

I also wonder why chipmakers don't paint the numbers in white for a better contrast.

Best Answer

1. Clean up the text with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

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2. Wait for the alcohol to evaporate and rub yellow or white chalk on markings.

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3. Wipe gently with a cotton swab and bingo!

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Source (in Portuguese): http://www.piclistbr.org/paginas.php?fname=%20dicas.htm%20&autor=%2009/2010%20-%20Luciano%20Sturaro