"I'll buy that for a dollar!" -- Running Man? Robocop?
I think that's a great idea. But here's my spin on it... Rather than
make a 10U or 12U size, why not make a 5U size? (I think this is what
someone else was suggesting as well.) For an SKB, you'd have to buy
another, but this way you could easily use them in other cases, where
you have maybe 15U of MOTM.
Personally, I'd be happy having them non-painted. I can paint them
myself. But I wouldn't complain if there wer bulk-painted with black
powdercoat for a few extra duckets. I'd skip the logo-- it's cheaper
without and I'll happily blather on about MOTM to anyone who asks
anyway.
Sides would be nice (extra protection!). Top should be optional, in
that you can fasten one on. Bottom not necessary.
I don't fully understand how it would be fastened on, though. You
mentioned longer screws for the rails... are you suggesting that this
guy saddle up on the screws then be nut'ed on from behind? Or does it
go between the rack and the rails? (If it's the second, I think it
might need a second thought-- applying the power cords would be somewhat
more difficult. I like to bolt the module in place, then attach the
power cord from behind. Less stretching and potential for droppage.)
--PBr, hoping that Santa will make me a SKB pop-up user...
-----Original Message-----
From: J. Larry Hendry [mailto:
jlarryh@...]
Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2001 11:28 PM
To: MOTM List
Subject: [motm] Yet another useful MOTM compatible product...
So, here is the basic concept. I would love to have some feedback from
those that are interested in such a product. I am not a SKB pop up
user, so
your input into the product design is highly valued. I do however, have
a
SKB case coming my way graciously on loan from a fellow MOTMer so I can
make
sure the prototype fits perfectly.
Here is the idea (once again, Paul's idea, not mine):
A back cover for the MOTM modules so that the backs of the modules are
not
hanging out there unprotected when the case is open. The cover would
fasten
on from the back. The screws used to fasten the rack rails would be
longer
so the cover could attach to them from the back. That way, the cover
could
be snatched off quickly and easily without removing anything from the
front.
It will be made from stainless steel (I learned that from brackets).
So,
without paint it wont rust, but it would be shiny.
So, here are the questions...
How many people would be interested in such a beast?
Would you prefer 12 spaces high to cover the back
of everything or just 10 spaces high to cover the 2
rows of MOTM modules?
What about a top? Should it have one? Or, should
it just be two sides and the back with the top open?
If it has a top, should it be removable? Maybe the
basic back would not have a top, but a top would be
a fasten on option. You tell me.
I expect most people want a black finish.
There are two options when painting black.
1 - black powdercoat like the rack rails
2 - Black Polane with texture like the front of
MOTM panels
Option # 1 will give you the most durable finish.
It will also be the least cost I expect.
Option # 2 will be the prettiest. It will also be
considerably more expensive. But, I could
paint the outside only for option 2 to help cost.
How much, I don't know. I will have to get the estimates
after I get the prototype built.
What about a big SynthTech logo on the back?
Remember I have no experience with the pop up.
Can you actually see the back when opened?
The logo would be another significant cost adder.
But depending on interest. I can put the logo on some
and have some without. Of course, I would have to
consult with the brains of Stooge Panels Inc, Mr. Moe
Bradley concerning the logo. And, Paul would have to
OK the use of his trademark.
So, let me know of your interest (if any). I plan to make one for Paul
to
take to NAMM. If I make any more past that, it will be up to you guys.