Published on: June 5, 2012 by Blair Haas
Bud Industries, a leading manufacturer of plastic enclosures for electronics, announced an affordable case for the Raspberry Pi, a credit-card size microcomputer created to help kids learn programming. Made of two identical halves that fit together, the Bud “Pi Sandwich” case has windows on four sides, allowing easy access to ports for keyboard, TV/video, audio, USB, and LAN connections that need to be accessible when the case is closed.
Unlike other cases, the Bud case has a patented-design in which the windows are oversized to accommodate future versions of the Raspberry Pi board if port locations change or if new ports are added. Without cutting holes in the case, users can use flat cable connectors to attach an LCD screen or keyboard and use I/O ports for various applications, such as sending power or commands to a DC motor, another computer, or a robot.
Constructed of transparent, friendly raspberry-colored ABS plastic, the raspberry pi case is impact resistant and enables curious students and hobbyists to see the components and indicator lights clearly. The printed circuit board easily snaps into place, and holds the board securely so users will not make accidental contact with the base of the circuit board when the user attaches cables.
The compact enclosure measures 5.12 inches x 3.35 inches x 2.52 inches (130 x 85 x 64 mm). It contains enough space to mount a battery compartment and gives the option of mounting a second board, because the top and bottom of the case are identical. No hardware is required for assembly.
Case windows have built-in slots to accept user-supplied cover panels. An optional silicone band is in development that will cover windows and allow users to easily create custom cutouts.
“The Pi Sandwich is ideal for users who will frequently connect and disconnect from the PCB ports, because it holds the board securely and offers easy port access,” said Josiah Haas, Bud Industries Director of Sales. “And the case can be reused even if future versions of the Raspberry Pi board have a different configuration.”
The Bud Pi Sandwich is available for immediate delivery from stock via Bud distributors Allied and Newark, who also have the exclusive distribution rights to the Raspberry Pi.
To see a demo, video and detailed information, visit www.budind.com/78 or contact Bud at:
Phone: 440-946-3200
Fax: 440-951-4015
Web: www.budind.com
Email: saleseast@budind.com
Founded in 1928, Bud Industries, Inc. is the nation’s leading manufacturer of enclosures and related products for the electronics and data industries. The Bud line includes products ranging from small hand-held boxes to large cabinet racks, products made from plastic as well as metal, and standard electronic products as well as those that meet NEMA and seismic requirements. Bud’s standard product line of more than 2,500 products is heavily stocked by distribution channels as well as by the company itself, allowing same-day shipment of more than 90 percent of the enclosures sold. Modified standard and custom products are also available, as is complete design support.
Raspberry Pi is a trademark of the Raspberry Pi Foundation.
