The RFD X-Series Enclosure is a purpose-built, black ABS injection-moulded case designed for the RFD900x or RFD868x modem. It serves as a comprehensive solution for professionals and hobbyists alike, addressing critical aspects such as ease of mounting, protection, and security for the modem and its connecting cables. This robust enclosure is suitable for a wide range of applications, including both ground and air operations, and is engineered to perform reliably across a broad temperature range from -20°C to 80°C. Its design accommodates various output cable options and offers multiple mounting configurations, making it highly versatile.
Function Description:
The primary function of the RFD X-Series Enclosure is to house and protect an RFD900x or RFD868x radio modem. It ensures the modem's operational integrity by shielding it from environmental factors and physical damage, while also facilitating secure and stable mounting in diverse settings. The enclosure's design prioritizes both protection and accessibility, allowing for the modem's status to be easily monitored and its connections to be managed effectively. It integrates features that enhance the modem's longevity and reliability, such as optimized cooling and cable strain relief.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Material: Black ABS injection-moulded plastic, providing durability and rigidity.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for RFD900x and RFD868x modems.
- Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to 80°C, ensuring performance in challenging environments.
- Antenna Connectors: Fits RP-SMA antenna connectors, a common standard for radio equipment.
- Cable Compatibility: Supports FTDI and 900x Multi Cables, offering flexibility in connectivity.
- Mounting Dimensions (Configuration A: Tabs):
- Width: 30.00 mm (hole pattern)
- Length: 82.27 mm (overall)
- Mounting Dimensions (Configuration C: Inside Case):
- Overall Length: 94 mm
- Hole Pattern Length: 62.00 mm
- Inner Hole Pattern Length: 49.55 mm
- Overall Width: 31.50 mm
- Hole Pattern Width: 29.00 mm
- Screw Specifications:
- 2x M2.5 5mm screws (for modem fixation)
- 3x M2.5 14mm screws (for lid fastening)
- M3 screws (not provided, for mounting in Configuration A)
- M2 – 3 countersunk screws (not provided, for mounting in Configuration C)
- M2 – 2.2 self-tapping screws (not provided, for mounting in Configuration D), with a maximum penetration of 7.8 mm into the enclosure base.
- Cable Tie: Includes a 2mm cable tie for internal cable restraint.
- Compliance: Includes a compliance sticker (required in USA and Canada only) for regulatory purposes.
Usage Features:
The RFD X-Series Enclosure offers a variety of features designed to enhance its usability and adaptability:
- LED Status Light Visibility: The enclosure is designed with an integrated light pipe that makes the modem's LED status light visible from two sides, allowing for easy monitoring of the modem's operational status without opening the case.
- Cable Restraint: A built-in cable restraint mechanism, utilizing a provided 2mm zip tie, secures the connecting cable (e.g., FTDI or Multi Cable) to prevent accidental disconnections or damage from tugging. This feature ensures the cable remains firmly in place, enhancing the reliability of the connection.
- Multiple Mounting Configurations: The enclosure supports four distinct mounting methods, providing flexibility for integration into various systems and environments:
- Configuration A: Tabs: The enclosure features integrated mounting tabs that allow it to be directly attached to a desired location using M3 screws (not provided). This method is straightforward and provides a secure attachment.
- Configuration B: Zip Tie: For quick and flexible mounting, the enclosure includes slots at the top and bottom ends designed to accommodate two zip ties (up to 4.5mm wide). This allows for easy attachment to poles, frames, or other structures.
- Configuration C: Inside Case: This configuration involves disassembling the case and drilling through specific holes in the base (recommended M2) to mount the enclosure base directly to a surface using M2 – 3 countersunk screws (not provided). This method offers a more integrated and flush mounting solution, with careful consideration needed to avoid interference with internal components.
- Configuration D: Custom Mounting Bracket: The enclosure base can be mounted onto an external custom mounting board using M2 – 2.2 self-tapping screws (not provided) through designated holes at the back. This allows for the creation of bespoke mounting solutions, providing maximum adaptability for complex installations.
- Optimized Cooling: The design encourages mounting the modem with the heatsink facing outwards, which is crucial for optimized cooling and maintaining the modem's performance, especially during extended operation or in warmer environments.
- Ease of Assembly: The assembly process is clearly outlined, involving placing the light pipe, attaching the cable to the modem, securing the modem within the base, applying cable restraint, and finally fastening the lid with the provided screws. The use of different screw lengths for modem fixation and lid fastening simplifies the process.
Maintenance Features:
While the enclosure itself requires minimal maintenance, its design facilitates the maintenance and longevity of the modem it houses:
- Robust Protection: The rigid ABS plastic construction provides excellent protection against dust, moisture, and physical impacts, reducing the need for frequent modem repairs or replacements due to environmental damage.
- Cable Strain Relief: The cable restraint feature minimizes stress on the cable connections, preventing wear and tear that could lead to intermittent connectivity or cable failure, thereby reducing maintenance needs related to cabling.
- Clear Labelling Requirements: For compliance in the USA and Canada, the manual specifies the need for an external label on the enclosure, stating "Contains FCC ID: 2ADLE-900x2" or "Contains IC ID: 24610-900x2" respectively. This ensures regulatory adherence and simplifies identification for maintenance or inspection purposes.
- Considerations for Installation: The manual emphasizes important considerations during installation, such as keeping cabling short and away from electrical noise sources, and securing cables to prevent pulling. These guidelines contribute to the overall reliability and reduce potential issues that would require maintenance.
- Access to Components: Although the enclosure is designed for protection, the assembly instructions detail how to open and close the case, allowing for access to the modem for any necessary internal maintenance, upgrades, or troubleshooting. The use of screws for fastening ensures secure closure while allowing for future access.
In summary, the RFD X-Series Enclosure is a well-engineered product that provides robust protection, flexible mounting options, and user-friendly features for RFD900x and RFD868x modems, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications requiring reliable and secure modem deployment.
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