ProtocaseDesigner.com

Simple question to which I think I already know the answer:

I'm working on a case design that needs a few Neutrik XLR DLX-series cutouts. They are actually in the library (nc3fd-lx). However, the holes they create top left / bottom right appear to be just holes and are neither tapped, nor have a PEM nut on the far side to allow fixing the connector to the panel.

As I'm using aluminium, I'd prefer to use a nut as it will be stronger than just a few turns' worth of M3 screw into my tapped 2.05mm thick aluminium chassis. But the software doesn't like it because it's too close to the main cutout.

So what are the possibilities & recommendations?
- nut is possible with cutout right next to it
- nut not possible, tapped thread possible
- nut and tapped thread not possible, manual nut

Thanks

We recommend using self clinching nuts, sheet metal just doesn't have a lot of room for threads. If you use FEX or FEOX variety self clinching nuts, they can be placed that close to the main cutout. There will be some bulging but not too much for the connector to go in.

Currently there seems to be an issue editing a cutout - it doesn't save properly so the best thing would be to request a specific pem instead of the current cutouts via the note tool.

Thanks Douglas.
So you know it's been done before OK with PEMs on the Neutrik XLR cutout?
I guess the designers / engineers at Protocase would let me know in the final approval stage if it was a problem?

Also, is there an easy way to understand the differences beteen the PEMs. Some of them seem to have identical description text, made out of the same metal, yet have multiple designations.

P.S. regarding custom cutouts for things like logos and strange shapes, are there any rules / limitations? I can ensure I have at least 1.5x material thickness between cutouts, but is there anything else I should be aware of?

Cheers,
Xavier

It has been done before with cutouts that are at least very similar to the neutrik xlr cutouts, and yes as part of the final approval stage the engineers would tell you there was going to be a problem. Of course there is a region where the answer becomes "how much deformation can you accept".

I have been told it should not be a problem in this case provided you use the FEX or FEOX nuts.

Thanks Douglas.

In fact, I've placed my order - just trying to get through to Georgie
As I'm using metric, I went for the thin F-M3-1 nuts as they're hexagonal and if aligned correctly, will clear the main cutout.

I've made notes in the file against them and also in the order notes web page so it'll get checked by the engineers anyway.

excellent, they will get back to you shortly.