Kaliko Systems Limited
Make a Low-Power Media Server
Case Overview
If you have designed your project to use a relay board, perhaps purchased the relay board and are now thinking “what should I do about a case for my relay board”? Then these Web pages can help you answer that question. My case for a board with 8 relays is pictured below. This shows the plug and sockets on the back of the case, and the cut-out on the side is for the connection from the PC. The socket numbers are the reverse of the status lights numbers on the front of the case, for easy use.
I have 3 computer controlled relay boards from different vendors and after making some quick, but unsatisfactory cases, I decided to design and build replacement cases that were both functional and family-friendly . On this Web site I describe the general design considerations and pitfalls in making such cases for your own relay boards.
My relay boards are used for switching mains power, which is obviously potentially dangerous. A well-designed case can reduce, but not totally eliminate this danger. Making the cases requires the use of cutting tools (preferably power tools) so you will need a safe environment in which to work. I would not recommend this as your first construction project, as to look good, the cases need to be made quite accurately. Also, if light-pipes are used with a relay board that has surface mounted LEDs, then the panel holes must position the light-pipes to within 1mm of the center of the LEDs. When considering my suggestions you should judge them in relationship to your own case requirements and craft abilities. Hopefully you will want to follow at least some of my suggestions, but you do so entirely at your own risk.
Let's start by considering the need for a case.