I would like to purchase a few project boxes similar to the the one in these pictures. Both the case and PCB clip into place. I expect it will be a long search to find them so I figured that it was worth asking here first, even if it was a long shot.
I doubt you will find something ready-made like this (famous last words...) - likely GENIE had them custom designed and molded specifically for that application. I've seen boxes with mounting "ears" like that (both in plastic and cast aluminum), but never with clips on the mounting plate (now, you might find something with standoffs that you could screw the PCB onto - would that work?)... Good luck with the search!
I know this is not what you asked for, but...Snaptrack can be mounted with doublesided tape in any box. Serpac and Bud carry plastic enclosures with mounting flanges. E
Hammond (http://www.hammondmfg.com/scpg.htm) has several boxes with flanged lids and card guides. They are not exactly like your picture, but they are probably functionally similar. The flanged lid can be quite an advantage when mounting. You can also find similar styles in aluminum from the same supplier. DigiKey, Mouser, etc. carry the line.
As I tried to say in the first post. I know there are lots of places making boxes. This post was simply an attempt to shorten the search.
I intend to mount a few of these on the ceiling in the shop and I would just as soon not have to fiddle with screws to get the cover off. Screws for the PCB would be ok if that was the only choice.
Thinking it would be great to pop in a replacement PCB or radio without using a screw driver while standing on the ladder.
Although it pains me to say this, I have never been disappointed by a Hammond box. They may be a few dollars more than the competition, depending on where you buy them, but if you are buying less than 100, what difference does that make? The lids fit. Screws fit. Most of the plastic ones have brass inserts for the screws. Blueroomelectronics used them. What more can I say? Oh yes, even AG approves of them!
What if you found such a box (flanged with screwed on cover), but modified it to use small rare-earth magnets to hold the cover on (unless using magnets be a problem in your application)...?
What if you found such a box (flanged with screwed on cover), but modified it to use small rare-earth magnets to hold the cover on (unless using magnets be a problem in your application)...?
Magnets would be easier to manage then a clip/snap on lid. The boxes will house a PIC and a low power 2.4GHz radio. The only possible interaction I can think of is with the radio's inductors but I do not think a fixed offset in the existing magnetic field will bother.
Crosh's post has me thinking that I can make a flat base with flanges and mount the PCB to it. Then find a suitable plastic cover to he held on with magnets. The PCB mount could be a pair of slotted sticks (card guides) glued to the base. That comes closer then anything I have seen from the vendors. Need to see wee if dollar general has anything that would make a decent looking cover.
hi duffy,
Yes its correct, the boxes actually hold together snugly without the 4 screws, I would say as good as a regular magnet option.
I have one of that type next to me on the bench and I have to use force to pull the halves apart.
E.
I have one of the flanged Polycase gizmos. I don't exactly know which model it is, but I could find out. The overall is about 2" W x 1-1/8" tall x 3" L and 3.5" between the bolt holes.
The lid will snap and stay on without using the 4 screws.