My cardboard enclosure got people talking about the project, but it was far from pretty. It’s time to turn a virtual design and a cardboard NAS-pi prototype into the real thing. The frosted green perspex I got for that purpose will make it looks stunning! I got my laser cutting training completed and I can safely operate all laser devices, from phasers (stun mode mandatory) to laser guns from Fallout 4.
NAS-pi – lasers and enclosure
Laser cutters are amazing. Period! I had a great time watching the CNC style machine cutting out my enclosure for the NAS-pi. Also, the first time in many months (thank you Jim) I had someone teaching me something. The usual approach is to google it and find a solution on my own, but it is so nice to have someone real answer all the silly questions on the spot and teach you all the relevant information at once. It’s easy and saves a lot of time.
I made some errors, while some were more serious than the others, I managed put the NAS-pi box together. Always check everything twice. The moment I failed to listen to my own advice resulted in a fairly hilarious mistake! (see video).
The perspex is easy to cut, the edges are polished, therefore, there is no need for the flame treatment and it should be easy to glue things together. I have to correct the design before I share the files, as the bottom of the box had issues with wings.
Tomorrow, I will focus on vents, logo, and the internal mounting for Raspberry Pi 2 and the USB hub. Raspberry Pi comes with mounting holes, and I will have to get more creative with the hub. Given enough time I should come up with a nice solution. The last thing I want is something rattling inside my NAS-pi. If you want to read more about the hardware and performance check the part 1 & part 2.
Shopping for components:
| Item | Amazon UK | Amazon USA | Aliexpress.com | Banggood.com | Comments |
| 1 x USB 3.0 4 port hub | £8.99 | $9.99 | $6.64 | $11.99 | I picked the microUSB powerd one, other are available |
| 4 x USB angled cables | £6.99 pack of two | $6.99 pack of two | $1.68 | $2.99 | Plan the bends accordingly |
| 1 x 2.5 -3 A 5V power supply | £5.79 | $8.99 | $4.99 | $5.75 | Works from 2.4A but aim for 3A if possible |
| 1 x Raspberry PI 2/3 | £32.00 | $35.10 | $39.50 | $39.99 | There is no speed penalty for RPI2 |
| 3 x HDD | £5.95 | $8.99 | $8.49 | $9.49 | Needs to have a specific opening mechanism |
| USB hub with power 2.5A | £12.22 | $16.99 |
Conclusion
This project wouldn’t be possible without access to the Teeside Hackspace. If you have a similar workshop around, seriously, sign up now!
Project Download
Download project files here. Bear in mind that Patreon supporters have early access to project files and videos.
