Raspberry Pi Cases

[metalphreak]

So, now the RPi has been available for a while, there seems to be a fair few options for cases already

So far I've tried out the Built To Spec enclosure (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:25100) and it's quite nice. I'm about to cut out the Adafruit one (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:24461) to see if its much better. I've seen a couple of ideas for mass produced injection mold cases as well.



Pics of BuiltToSpec: http://imgur.com/a/NMt7M (Haven't got correct M3 screws atm)

What is everyone else using for a case? Before, I had the free-air cable suspension case 


Edit: http://imgur.com/a/eWjSX Found some suitably long bolts (phillips countersunk... not ideal) and took some proper quality pics

[djsb]

My Pi is on it's way from Farnell (was expecting a 5 week wait-but was dispatched yesterday after ordering on Thursday). I may be ordering the same case from AdaFruit but will have to get it direct from them as non of the distributors seem to stock them in the UK.
I'll have a look at the built to spec one and reply here.

David.

P.S Now that I've had a look it's obvious that you have to have a 3d printer to make one of these, which I don't have. Suppose I could get one made up at shapeways. Probably cost me more though.
P.P.S So you can buy them already printed up, wonder how much that will cost me? I think I'll buy one of the black case kits.

[Chet T16]

I have a Built to Spec one (without light pipes) made by someone over here which was €15 delivered

[metalphreak]

Just cut out the adafruit version which basically clips together. You really want this one precision cut with a laser cutter. There is very little margin otherwise its a total pain in the ass to clip together.

If you just want something to stick the RPi in, the adafruit one isn't a bad choice. It's not as tall, perhaps a little easier to assemble. It's not something you want to be opening up all the time though and there is no access to internal pins except for the slot to the GPIO using a ribbon cable. Best thing going for it is availability.

To be fair, this is one I did cut myself using their design files on thingiverse. One you purchase from them will probably be perfect.

Built To Spec one is a bit taller, but I feel it holds the RPi more securely, is much easier to disassemble, and you can leave the top panel off to gain access to everything while still protecting the board. Light pipes are a cool idea too. I'll probably end up making one out of smoke grey acrylic and then making some light pipes out of the clear stuff.

djsb: I used my CNC machine to cut it from sheet acrylic. Probably only about $3-4 worth for each one

Edit: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:24461 Eh, first comment there is someone complaining that the clipping system is a bit rubbish, even on bought ones.

[Chet T16]

What cnc machine have you? Is it a good one?

[djsb]

I've sent built to spec a message asking if they ship to the UK or have a distibutor here. I like the look of that black version.
I can't be bothered getting one made up at work (CNC machines all over the place). Wonder if there is anywhere I can buy these in the UK?

David.

[Chet T16]

There is a delivery option but it's more than the case!

[metalphreak]

http://builttospecstore.storenvy.com/products/404262-raspberry-pi-enclosure-kit

Shipping to the UK (and Australia) is $16 though.

Chet: I have a chinese CNC6040 machine. There's a thread somewhere in the products forum about it.

[djsb]

I might have a go at designing my own and get it made at Shapeways. Not sure if they do acrylic though. I'll keep looking around.

David.

[metalphreak]

Seeed Studios: http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/laser-cutting-service-p-1009.html?cPath=185 They only do 2.55mm so you have to adjust the design a bit.

Ponoko: http://www.ponoko.com/make-and-sell/materials/ponoko-razorlab-london?kind=Plastic&mode=materials Through RazorLAB UK - 0.118" = 3mm

Ponoko also have manufacturing studios in the USA, New Zealand etc so most areas of the world are covered. Ponoko probably won't be anywhere near as cheap as Seeed though.
Also, Seeed only do cutting. They do not do engraving at the moment so no port labels.

[RCMR]

My Pi is on it's way from Farnell (was expecting a 5 week wait-but was dispatched yesterday after ordering on Thursday).

Well that sucks (for me).

I got the email advising that my slice of the Pi was able to be ordered about a month with delivery expected in 9+ weeks.  I paid and have been waiting with no notification of shipping yet.

Looks like Farnell/E14 are doing a much better job that RS.

Bugga!

[notsob]

RS also have pi cases black/clear/white ~$12   http://australia.rs-online.com/web/p/processor-microcontroller-development-kits/7644389/?origin=PSF_431027|acc