[Elecraft] K3: machined concentric knobs from Mouser

[Ed Muns]

>    From: drewko <drewko1 at verizon.net>
>    Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:06:01 -0400
> 
>    It's funny though, sometimes I think the K3 should have 
> some kind of
>    hardshell cover for the front panel.  Then you could transport it
>    without having to worry about banging up the fragile 
> controls and LCD.
>    Not that I transport the rig much... I guess I just think 
> it would be
>    cool to have a snap-on or hinged panel cover.
> 
> I tried to get one made at my local TAP Plastics (El 
> Cerrito), but the fellow there didn't seem to be able to get 
> it the right size, even with my leaving the K3 with him.

I had a foam shop fabricate a custom die set for punching out foam
protectors for both the front and rear panels of the K3.  The closed-cell
foam is then glued to a thin sheet of PVC which protects the foam and
distributes any shock applied to the front or rear panel.  The foam cut-outs
clear the knobs and connectors, contacting the sheet metal portion of the
panels.  See http://www.w0yk.com/images/k3_foam.jpg.  If there is enough
interest, I might consider having another run of them made up.  Price would
be $15 plus shipping.

Ed - W0YK