[sdiy] making panels with metalphoto?

[Danjel van Tijn]

I need to get a bunch of front panels made for the various DIY pcbs I
have been building.

I have looked at using Shaefer/Front Panel Express but I do not want
my graphics to be carved in.

After researching different methods I would like to use the METALPHOTO
product/process. It makes very durable and precise graphics on
aluminum up to 0.125" thick. You need to print the graphics first and
then cut the panel afterwards.

There are also seems to be a lot of fab shops around N.A. that offer
metalphoto services.

I was wondering if anyone had experience getting short runs of panels
made (e.g. 1-4 at a time) and had found the cheapest place to get the
panels made and cut (metalphoto and cnc cutting)?

It will be great if I can just send the place an Illustrator file: one
for graphics and one for drill/cut holes.

Examples of places I have found so far (and e-mailed for quotes):
http://www.mpofcinci.com/Panels/panels.asp
http://www.technigraphics.com/products_metalphoto.htm
http://www.tacomarubberstamp.com/metalphoto.aspx

The final products look very pro, but I fear there may be high setup costs....

cheers,
Danjel


Danjel van Tijn