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Bijou Home recommendations

post #1 of 8
11/12/10 at 5:28pm
Thread Starter 

Hello,

 

  Another Bijou needs a home!  What dimensions are needed for a nice sized case?  The case needs good ventilation and enough room to avoid over heating.  The components will be inverted.  The tubes will stick out the top.

 

What cases are recommended?  Can links be provided?  I live in the States and would prefer avoiding international.  Aluminum is a must.  In the future I will be painting the case and going for a glossy black look.  I hope to find a way to use chrome moulding for accenting the case.  I am also VERY interested in lucite for cool lighting effects.

 

Thank you for all advice.

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post #2 of 8
11/12/10 at 6:56pm
I don't know what size is best, but you might want to check Par-Metal's stock offerings. I've bought a few cases from them.

As for chrome trim, you can buy bits and pieces from people who make car reproduction parts. Though I'd recommend using a jigsaw to cut pieces of aluminum hobby plates. File them to shape then use automotive sandpapers and polishes to get them really bright. It's almost as shiny as chrome and you won't have to deal with plating.
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post #3 of 8
11/13/10 at 1:15am

You can use about any size chassis you wish. Many have opted to use a small footprint and as long as you use proper wiring techniques and are careful with component layout you should not have any issues with noise. I prefer a powder coat finish instead of painting. Powder coating is much more durable and can have a mirror look when applied correctly and cured properly (see Bijou in my sig).


Edited by balderon - 11/13/10 at 1:16am
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post #4 of 8
11/14/10 at 9:32pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Uncle Erik View Post

I don't know what size is best, but you might want to check Par-Metal's stock offerings. I've bought a few cases from them.

As for chrome trim, you can buy bits and pieces from people who make car reproduction parts. Though I'd recommend using a jigsaw to cut pieces of aluminum hobby plates. File them to shape then use automotive sandpapers and polishes to get them really bright. It's almost as shiny as chrome and you won't have to deal with plating.


Where can I buy aluminum hobby plates?  I have a oscillating hand tool and a professional rotary tool (neither of which are Dremel wink_face.gif)

Would either of those be suitable?  Perhaps I can get a vertical stand for the rotary.  I think I like your idea.

 



Quote:
Originally Posted by balderon View Post

You can use about any size chassis you wish. Many have opted to use a small footprint and as long as you use proper wiring techniques and are careful with component layout you should not have any issues with noise. I prefer a powder coat finish instead of painting. Powder coating is much more durable and can have a mirror look when applied correctly and cured properly (see Bijou in my sig).


I understand about saying any size I wish.  Would there be any links for specific chassis?  I really want this to look professional so any advice, AT ALL, would be greatly appreciated.

 

 

I am mostly considering getting a chassis and building quickly, then implementing the eye candy later.  I am trying to build this in time for the Nov 20th NYC can meet.  I am realistic in the probability that this isn't likely.

 

Thank you for all the advice.

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post #5 of 8
11/14/10 at 9:38pm
You can find small aluminum plates in varying thicknesses at most Ace Hardware stores. You'll find them at places that sell RC airplanes, boats, model rockets, etc. Around here, I can get them for $3-$6 each. You should find some brass and copper plates, as well as an assortment of small tubes and square tubes. They're pretty handy for fabricating small parts and trimwork.

You can work them with a Dremel, but I like jigsaws and scrollsaws. They won't give you the finest cuts, so use an assortment of fine flat and round files followed by sandpaper. It's more labor than skill, but you'll end up with professional-looking bits.
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post #6 of 8
11/14/10 at 9:43pm
Thread Starter 

Thank you for the hobby recommendations.  This is valuable information.  Is there an online resource for purchasing these?  I work lots of hours and finding time and effort to go out and buy is difficult for me now.

 

*Sigh* perhaps it is time to purchase a jigg.  I hear Hitachi makes a quality and inexpensive unit.  Any recommendations (Value > Quality > Price)

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post #7 of 8
11/16/10 at 6:26am
Thread Starter 

*bump*  Any links for cases?

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post #8 of 8
11/16/10 at 9:44am

Hammond Manufacturing

BUD Industries

Par-Metal Products

McMaster Carr

Online Metals

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