[sdiy] Frontpanel Legends - Revisted

[Tom Arnold]

I just got the Metalphoto catalog, sample, and pricelist.
I think Harry understated how rugged the metalphoto process is.  They sent two
samples.  I sandblasted one sample for about 30 seconds and the sample was still
in very good condition with only a slight hazing which I found amazing.

Now, the cool thing which I didnt grok from the website... This stuff is 
available in .125" thickness.  A box of 12 10"x12" plates is $161.  Thats 
roughly 30 MOTM sized faceplates, or a whole lotta FracRac. 
I think the metalplate printing is tough enough to handle some machining, so
you'd get the faceplates made by your printing company, cover them with some
clear mask, and drill/punch away.  This doesnt look like a process you'd
want to try at home.  Looks like a good bit of specialized equipment.  But
its an intriguing idea for someone supplying kits to get the metalphoto
plates done and leave the drilling to the assembler.

Perhaps of more interest is the ID-MARK process.  It requires only UV 
exposure and water to process. 10 pack of 10"x12" .014 thick sheet is
$159.  Should be pretty rugged with a couple coats of your favorite spray
on it.

Both look promising so I figured I'd pass on what I found.

Oh.  Both of the above are black on silver.

-- 
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 - Tom Arnold -       When I was small, I was in love,                  - 
 - Sysabend   -       In love with everything.                          -
 - CareTaker  -       And now there's only you...                       - 
 --------------         -- Thomas Dolby, "Cloudburst At Shingle Street" -