PO-XX cases

Pocket Operators
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1

Hi everyone,


Since the units seems to be pretty sensitive I want to have a proper case that covers the hole unit. It is probably just a matter of time before someone digs in to it and makes some proper cases for the PO:s. Even though I haven’t got the engineering skills neither the right tools by myself there must be someone at the forum that knows some way of doing it.

What you guys say, are you going to buy the silicon cases from TE or would you prefer a full covering hard case instead?


2

I’m gonna build my own case, probably in wood. Just gotta find some buttons to go with it

3

^im having a hard time making my own buttons… maybe a custom designed keybed but that looks expensive. maybe 3d printed is the way to go!

4
^im having a hard time making my own buttons... maybe a custom designed keybed but that looks expensive. maybe 3d printed is the way to go!

Yeah, I think 3d is the best way to. I couldn´t resist the thought of a custom retro-looking case. Mmmm.

5

yah id really like a calculator case! or a DMG gameboy. !

6
I'm thinking maybe these would fit nicely
http://www.ebay.com/itm/100PCS-Switch-CAP-For-Tact-Switches-Cover-Connectors-Pushbutton-Round-Caps-Black-/181020096872
or maybe square ones for the calculator look
http://www.ebay.com/itm/100sets-Square-Plastic-Switch-Caps-for-12x12mm-Tact-Switches-Pushbutton-Cover-BK-/171174483606

Would also be cool to find an old calculator thats the same size and gut it.
7

cool buttons @defectus




8
I'm thinking maybe these would fit nicely
http://www.ebay.com/itm/100PCS-Switch-CAP-For-Tact-Switches-Cover-Connectors-Pushbutton-Round-Caps-Black-/181020096872

Yeah those looks nice! The buttons are must be the hardest thing about making the case, even though it doesn’t seem to be impossible.

9

Surely they need a transparent quality to see the LEDs through?

10

That’s true. Unless you cut away a little bit at the top of the hole for the button. But transparent would be better.

11

There is already a cases thread here:


http://www.operator-1.com/index.php?p=/discussion/678/po-cases
12

I’ve been thinking of a decent way to store/transport PO’s. I have 12 and 14 but of course I am still waiting for the silicone cases.


The idea is this:


case1

This is a protective hard shell case I purchased from EBAY (around £9) a while back for my GoPro’s. It measures 22 x 16.5 x 7cm.



case2

This is the case as I use it. You see it has a thick foam insert with pre cut shapes for GoPro cameras and other items.
The idea is to use an identical case, with some foam sheeting and cut holes to size for the ‘cased’ PO’s.



case4

Here you can see a 12 and 14 sitting inside the empty case. There is already plenty of room, even with the tabs (which will be removed once they are housed in the official silicone cases).



case5

These are a couple of approximated scale PO’s in silicone cases sitting inside the case.



case6

The idea is to purchase two sheets of protective foam (like above). One will sit on the bottom of the case, the other sheet will have two holes cut out which will hold the PO’s (in case) nice and snug.

I’ll then attach the top sheet to the bottom with some double side tape, so it doesn’t move around at all.

Once I get the PO cases I’ll give this a go and report back.
13

What about laser cut bamboo? Would look pretty fly, add a “Kung Fu” style font for bouns points.


Or maybe a acrylic job styled to look like a Game and Watch?

Or the old Sinclair look (kindof similar to the silicon cases a bit no?)
http://www.vintagecalculators.com/html/cambridge_models.html


14
What about laser cut bamboo? Would look pretty fly, add a "Kung Fu" style font for bouns points.

Or maybe a acrylic job styled to look like a Game and Watch?

Or the old Sinclair look (kindof similar to the silicon cases a bit no?)
http://www.vintagecalculators.com/html/cambridge_models.html


This must be really close to the PO. Looks awesome.

15
What about laser cut bamboo? Would look pretty fly, add a "Kung Fu" style font for bouns points.

Or maybe a acrylic job styled to look like a Game and Watch?

Or the old Sinclair look (kindof similar to the silicon cases a bit no?)
http://www.vintagecalculators.com/html/cambridge_models.html


This must be really close to the PO. Looks awesome.


Even closer :slight_smile: Design by Dieter Rams and Dietrich Lubs in 1987

16

yeah I was thinking of retro fitting a calculator body to them too.

17

I have one of the original ET66 calculators from Braun. But I shudder to think of sacrificing such a classic piece of vintage design by Dieter Rams for a bit of case hacking 0_0

18

@buramu very cool! The one I posted is from someone’s listing on eBay going for over a $100.

19

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DUDU2Q6/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/179-0014108-0818518#immersive-view_1425203812576

Look we can get a replica tehe

20

Oh gawd in white! Gasing for calculators here…