Printer makes functioning tools

[Chip Fetrow]

And for panels and enclosures try Front Panel Express.

I used to cut panels on a drill press, then for the square and  
rectangular holes, drill a hole for a saber saw blade, and cut the  
panel with a saber saw mounted upside down under a router table.  Talk  
about LOUD even with aluminum panels.  Then I had to use dry transfer  
letters and seal the entire panel because just sealing the dry  
transfer looks less than professional.

I always ended up with four (or more) screw heads on the front panel  
to hold the chassis in place while Front Panel Express can press fit  
threaded studs so there are no fasteners visable on the panel.

Things have gotten to be much easier.

--chip

On Jul 10, 2011, at 6:52 AM, tacos-request at amrad.org wrote:

> Message: 7
> Date: Sat, 09 Jul 2011 20:38:49 -0500 (CDT)
> From: Robert Stratton <bob at stratton.net>
> To: tacos at amrad.org
> Subject: Re: Printer makes functioning tools
>
> If all you want to do is fab your designs, just use Shapeways  
> online. They've been around for a few years now and continually  
> increase their material options and ease-of-use.
>
> I think Philips originally started it, but the site/service has  
> pretty much taken off on its own.
>
> They started with 2 or 3 plastic choices but are now offering  
> several metals as well. The site will take CAD output in a number of  
> standard formats.
>
> --Bob S.