Creating an enclosure to mount a PCB

One of the most common uses for Protocase Designer is to design a custom enclosure to mount a PCB and associated components. This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating a custom rackmount enclosure to mount a mini-ITX PCB using self-clinching fasteners, and create cutouts for the PCB, power supply, and fan.

Select components to mount in enclosure

Note: Mounting dimensions are not needed for the 60mm fan since a built-in cutout for the fan will be used.

Note: It is important to properly understand how to mount each component including any required clearances.

Sketch mounting locations for components

Note: Dimensions are always measured from the absolute origin on the OUTSIDE of the enclosure (i.e. you must factor in the thickness of the enclosure)

Add PCB and power supply cutouts to rear panel

This enclosure requires two rectangular cutouts on the rear panel to accommodate the mini-ITX PCB and power supply. Template:Procedure

Add built-in fan cutout to rear panel

Protocase Designer® offers a library of cutouts for common components including fans of various sizes. Template:Procedure

Add cutouts to chassis

Template:Procedure You can now customize your enclosure further by adding additional cutouts, silkscreen, and hardware to the other faces and then request an instant quote.