> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.voltera.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.voltera.io/docs/nova/getting-started/starter-project/setup/mounting-the-substrate.md).

# Mounting the Substrate

{% hint style="info" %}
If you printed the exercises onto a sheet of PET, you will use the vacuum module to mount your substrate instead of the rigid mounting hardware. Check out [this article ](/docs/nova/learn-nova/novas-hardware/using-the-vacuum-module.md)to see how to mount your substrate with the vacuum module.
{% endhint %}

Before mounting our FR4 board to NOVA for printing, let's make sure we have all the necessary hardware ready. In NOVA’s drawer we’ll find a foam insert holding all of the rigid mounting hardware.

<figure><img src="/files/r7slSxTSSIWQYPuq9WIt" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

We should have the following:

* 4 x Anchor mount: As a single node for mounting, these mounts provide the most support for your substrate and should be used as the first points of contact when mounting your substrate.

  <figure><img src="/files/cFxFO9LLB3rqYAZpfYgR" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
* 4 x Swivel mount and thumb screw: Together these mounts provide the flexibility between the holes on the mounting grid. The thumbscrew inserts into the slot of the swivel mount and allows you to customize the placement with a range of 40mm in a 360° circle.
  \\

  <figure><img src="/files/RrvRI3Vv7xmCVgPFWh4R" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

### Mounting Your Substrate&#xD;

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Mount Anchor Mounts

Start by mounting 2 anchor mounts to support the top edge of your board. Loosen the screw on the top of the anchor mounts and clamp your substrate between the shaft and the screw.

<div><figure><img src="/files/j0SfKps8tD1OFfHt38jB" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/Z4avJcrxEqhtsfkp4US1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add Swivel Mounts

Add in your swivel mounts to the opposite side of the board to add support. Loosen the screw on the top of the swivel mount and clamp the board loosely between the shaft and the screw. Insert a thumbscrew in the shaft of the swivel mount to tie it to the mounting grid. Tighten the thumbscrew down as well as the screw on the top of the swivel mount.

<figure><img src="/files/JdIQgfspQD3QuMGfIs7S" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Test for Deflection

Test if your substrate is secure by putting downward pressure with your finger around the perimeter of the substrate. Add in extra mounts if you notice any deflection in the board.

<figure><img src="/files/T0TNW55eGGANFyaX58vh" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

With the board mounted, we can now move to assembling our dispenser.


---

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