need advice on case modding

[Sparrowhawk]

Hi, not strictly speaking QL related, but I'd like to put my N-GO (ZX Spectrum Next clone board) into a Spectrum+ case.

I have never tried sawing/making holes in a case before - can anyone advise me on tools needed for these sort of job and any howtos on how to start a hole and cut it out smoothly, how to screw a board into a case where which it was not made for etc?

Any do's and dont's?

Thank you!

[Chr$]

I popped a Pi into a QL case. I had to make holes at the front along the bottom for 4 USB ports and a slot for the SD card. To do so I used a dremel with a cutting disk on it and then some small hobby files to make it neat. There may be alternative ways but that certainly worked for me. To fit the Pi in place I used plastic standoffs that I screwed to the bottom (drilled holes for that).

[Trent51]

Hello,

Thanks for the tips. There must be other ways to do it, but I think it's easier this way. And as long as it works, what more could you ask for?

[Sparrowhawk]

Thanks Chr$.

I had to tootle off to Amz to check out what a dremmel was of course!

[Chr$]

Thanks Chr$.

I had to tootle off to Amz to check out what a dremmel was of course!

I have a cheap dodgy rotation tool that clogs up and melts the plastic unless applied in very short bursts and takes forever. Recently I got a proper Dremel that spins at an incredible speed and will cut through even metal like a mini angle grinder. You get what you pay for.

You could probably also drill a pilot hole and then use a hacksaw to expand it to the required size.