[sdiy] Plexiglass Panels

[Tim Parkhurst]

On 11/13/06, -- Stefano -- <stefano74 at hotmail.com> wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I'm planning (and budgeting) to build a modular synth (designs by Ray
> Wilson). I'm trying to cut the costs of buying metal panel (MOTM). I think
> that dark PLEXIGLASS panels may be used instead of the expensive dark metal
> panels. The enclosre could be wood+metal rails to host the modules. I know
> that metal panel are more good-looking...
>
> Does anybody have ever implemented rack panels with plexiglass? Which are
> pros and cons of this technique?
>
> Bye
>

I think the biggest problem (especially with a panel tall enough to
fit MOTM) will be the flex you'll get when plugging/unplugging jacks.
This may eventually crack the panel, especially around any drilled
holes. This flex will get even worse if you're planning on using 1/4"
jacks (require more force to insert and remove). You might want to put
a length of metal angle along the left and right edges of the panel to
help reduce the flex.

Tim (I crack when I flex too) Servo
-- 
"Imagination is more important than knowledge." - Albert Einstein