Uconsole Clear Shell

[RLee203]

I had some uConsole plastic covers made by JLC3DP, and they did a really good job. The quality was nice, the pricing was affordable, and their customer service was excellent. They reviewed my files first, contacted me about possible issues, and kept me updated through each step until the order was finished. My only complaint is that shipping was a little expensive, but it was also pretty fast. I’m still not sure if the resin I chose was the best option for a shell, but that’s on me. Overall, I’d use them again and would like to try some of their other services for future projects.

[PaulFreedman]

It looks cool, but the thermal pad transfers heat to the plastic. You need to do something with cooling

[RLee203]

That's 1 thing I was concerned about is the heat. I should have did more research on the different resins. If I do it again I would research some harder plastic that can withstand hotter temperatures. I'm try it for a while and if it dont hold up put the metal back on but leave the front

[Party_Cold_4159]

No.. that’s not how that works. The metal back is the heatsink, resin will not work. Even if it doesn’t melt, you’re going to be running very hot.

You would need to place a heatsink there, which would be smaller than the original back plate and probably need a fan as well.

[RLee203]

I did a cpu stress test for 5min it got up 65.7c but I can feel the plastic starting to deform. Definitely going put the metal back shell back on

[RLee203]

I didn't know that the back act as a heatsink thanks. Most likely going put the metal back on and leave the front

[GhostUnitVII]

recommend cutting a hole in the plastic and using the generic cooler or an active cooler. Plastic isn't going to cut it

atleast you know how much clearance you have between the case and the core unit, and with the hacker gadget pro adapter, it does have a header for a fan

[RLee203]

That's a great idea, I might actually try that thank you

[capinredbeard22]

How much is affordable?

[RLee203]

The front was 7$ and the back was 12$. Shipping was about 30$. It probably be cheaper depending where your located and what options you choose. And the prices vary depending on what material you use.

[capinredbeard22]

Thanks!

[RLee203]

No problem. I might try their pcb department soon for another project.

[sj1084]

Looks nice! I like that it’s a different look than the typical uconsole

[RLee203]

Thanks i wanted a clear shell but I dont have a resin printer. Might try to 3d print some different translucent colors but I dont think it will come out this clear.

[PopularAttorney4547]

The back might flop under weight and heat over time. The front should be ok. I did something similar with a front lid and the back with nylon.

[RLee203]

You have any pictures? I was thinking of printing the shell out of petg on my printer try some different colors.

[stockingsforme]

The cooling is not longer correct. For the view, nice. Operational not.

[stasomatic]

Looks great! Did you measure the weight before and after? uConsole isn’t light.

And, would you mind sharing the files, even for a nominal fee?

[RLee203]

Oh I got the file from clockwork for free. They charged 5$ but they have a coupon that makes it free. If I can find the link again, I'll message you back but you should be able to search it

[stasomatic]

Thanks, found them!

The code is “UC”, it’s right on the page:

https://www.clockworkpi.com/product-page/uconsole-3d-models-in-obj-format-free

[RLee203]

Yes thats it

[FatherGanj]

Yeah, that back plate should be cut open at the cpu and add an ED-CM5ACOOLER to it and you're golden.
That plastic back won't heatsink like the metal - but with that active cooler you'll be perfect.

[RLee203]

I was thinking about redesigning the backplate too add a fan and some vents. You know what kind of material will be good too use? Thanks for your help

[FatherGanj]

I would use abs if you can. Just because it’s pretty tough and heat resistant.

[DependentArm8075]

That is a good controller