Noob. Looking for a case for a b2

[bvz]

I tried searching this forum, but it says that "b2" and "case" are too common to let me search.

I am new to the Raspberry Pi world. That said, I am excited to say that I just created an always on Google Cloud Print Connector (server) that handles printing to a local printer from any computers, android phones, and (most importantly for my considerations) chromebooks that are on the local network! I.e. the print data never leaves the subnet (out to the cloud) and the printers are never exposed to the internet (to become part of huge botnets). The Raspberry Pi and the communities around it are amazing!

I now need to embed my Pi into a case so that it is protected from the elements.

I have a b2 (which I get from running "cat /proc/cpuinfo" which returns a revision of "000e". According to this link (http://raspberryalphaomega.org.uk/2013/ ... b1-and-b2/) suggests that I have a b2. Visually, it has an ethernet port and 2 (not 4) USB ports.

I am looking for a case that will seal up the pi (with any concessions to its possible need for airflow) to protect it as much as possible. I prefer one that is opaque, but looks aren't a priority for me. I would prefer it to be relatively inexpensive. I only need access to the power port, the USB ports, and occasionally the HDMI port. The SD card can (and preferrably would) be enclosed. I don't need access to any of the IO pins.

Whenever I see cases advertised, though, they don't specify which particular "B" model they are for. Additionally, all of the images seem to show the later version with 4 USB ports (even as they claim to support my board as well). Wouldn't that just leave a big hole where the second set of USB ports is missing from my version?

So... all that long winded stuff aside... can anyone recommend a very basic case that will mostly (completely? Is that possible?) seal up my version of the Pi?

Thanks!

[bvz]

Anyone have any ability to confirm or deny that these "universal" cases leave holes for b2?

Anyone willing to help out a total noob?

[DougieLawson]

Where in the World are you? Go here: ucp.php?i=173 and add your location

Take a look at this photo which one matches your RPi?


If you're in the UK with a RPi 1B rev2 then I've got two cases that are spare (one is green, the other is green base/white lid). They've got lots of holes in them for cables and connectors and some air flow.

[karrika]

If you have a chance to print a case using a 3D printer I really like this case from thingverse. In Finland you can use 3D printers for free in the libraries so printing this just costs your time.

I printed one in PETG yesterday and the case fits the Pi B perfectly. It also has VESA screw holes for securing the Pi somewhere.

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:608169

[bvz]

Thanks for the replies!

Alas I do not (yet) have access to a 3d printer, though the idea of finding one for this project is appealing.

I also live in California so I'm a bit far away to take the extra case of of your hands (thanks though!)

Looking at the chart, it looks like I have a version b v2.1

I guess I'll keep looking. I suppose I could always get one of the later cases and block the extra usb holes up with some tape... But that seems kind of janky to me.

Or maybe it is time to invest in my own 3D printer

[karrika]

If you decide to invest in a printer have a look at Monoprice Select Mini ($199). I finally got one of these and it produces great prints.

The only problem is that the extruder lever shipped with the printer is crap. Your first print should be a better extruder arm and purchase of a RC bearing for it. I got one extra lever with my printer and broke the original and the extra lever within the first month.

Also ABS printing is the way to go for making a case - not PLA. And get the free Craftware slicer instead of Cura that comes with the printer.

[bvz]

Thanks! I'll take a look at it. To be honest, I'm not sure I can afford a 3D printer at the moment (even one as relatively cheap as the one you listed). Still, I keep watching them with great interest.

I also saw this one which seems to be similarly priced and get good reviews:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_TYzy5YQTI

[karrika]

The printer in your video is a DIY printer. The one I was writing about is pre-built and calibrated when it arives.

It is not worth to buy a printer for a single RPi case. Just buy a case from the net.

What I really love about Finland is that the city of Espoo has a lot of free services for anybody. Vinyl cutters, 3D printers, power tools, computer help. Lots of old people book an hour for personal computer guidance at the library and they can come there with their problems with setting up and using computers. And the service is free. Perhaps that is one reason why taxes are a bit high in Finland.

It really makes sense to have some kind of hobby/service centre so that everyone does not have to invest in tools you may use only once a year. They also lend out books, music, videos and games as libraries used to do in the past.

[rpdom]

What I really love about Finland is that the city of Espoo has a lot of free services for anybody. Vinyl cutters, 3D printers, power tools, computer help. Lots of old people book an hour for personal computer guidance at the library and they can come there with their problems with setting up and using computers. And the service is free. Perhaps that is one reason why taxes are a bit high in Finland.

It really makes sense to have some kind of hobby/service centre so that everyone does not have to invest in tools you may use only once a year. They also lend out books, music, videos and games as libraries used to do in the past.

I've been told that our main local library is going to have a "maker space" with workbenches, equipment and 3D printers for people to use. I somehow doubt it will be free, but it is a start. I'll find out more later (this hasn't been officially announced yet, but the people who work there know me well).

[bvz]

The printer in your video is a DIY printer. The one I was writing about is pre-built and calibrated when it arives.

It is not worth to buy a printer for a single RPi case. Just buy a case from the net.

What I really love about Finland is that the city of Espoo has a lot of free services for anybody. Vinyl cutters, 3D printers, power tools, computer help. Lots of old people book an hour for personal computer guidance at the library and they can come there with their problems with setting up and using computers. And the service is free. Perhaps that is one reason why taxes are a bit high in Finland.

It really makes sense to have some kind of hobby/service centre so that everyone does not have to invest in tools you may use only once a year. They also lend out books, music, videos and games as libraries used to do in the past.

You actually bring up a good point. In Chicago (nowhere near here, but where my parents live) the public library has 3D printers that the public is free to use. There must be something like that here in San Francisco. After all, we like to think of ourselves as being so technologically advanced!

It would also be an opportunity, if I can locate one, to try out 3D printing before deciding that I want to (or don't want to) buy one myself.

Thanks again!