Hardware to mount pcb/prototype board to metal box?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on recommendations for hardware to mount a prototype PCB to a metal enclosure. Participants explore various mounting options, including different types of stand-offs and enclosures, as well as considerations for drilling and installation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks advice on hardware for mounting a prototype board to a metal box, expressing uncertainty about the best approach.
  • Another participant suggests using stand-offs, describing them as hexagonal rods with tapped holes for securing the PCB to the box.
  • It is mentioned that stand-offs can be attached directly to thick metal using threads, but this requires precise hole placement and possibly access to machine tools.
  • Some participants note that adhesive plastic stand-offs are available, which can be glued inside the box and have barbs for securing the PCB.
  • Links to specific products on Protostack are provided, indicating that they offer suitable hardware for the task.
  • One participant mentions nut inserts as a potential option, although they express uncertainty about their suitability for the specific application discussed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to mounting the PCB, with no consensus on a single best method. Different opinions on the suitability of various hardware types and installation techniques are evident.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the need for specific tools and techniques based on the thickness of the metal and the type of enclosure, indicating that the effectiveness of the proposed solutions may depend on these factors.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals involved in electronics prototyping, particularly those looking for practical solutions for mounting PCBs in metal enclosures.

atlbraves49
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Engineering news on Phys.org
They are called 'stand-offs'
Little hexagonal rods with a tapped hole in each end - you screw through the box into one end and trhough the PCB into the other
Or you can get stick on plastic ones that glue to the inside of the box and have little plastic barbs that go through the hole in the PCB
 
If you have fairly thick metal, you can get stand-offs that have a thread on one end, allowing you to screw it into the bottom of your box. This works best if you have access to a machine shop with a lathe, or someone that's really good with a drill press. You also need to know exactly where your holes are to be located.

If you just have a sheet metal box, well, the ones with tapped holes are probably the way to go, along with some round head screws through the sheet.
 
Nut inserts probably aren't what you'd want for your application but I thought they would be worth mentioning because they come in handy sometimes. For example, when a "backer plate" is desired in the bottom of an enclosure and you want to put standoffs on it to mount PCBs.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#nut-inserts/=qoac3"
 
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