[Premium-Rx] Front Panel Decals

[Bob Betts]

Dave and Jack:
I do a similar thing that is a standard procedure for our product prototypes. 
We've been doing this sort of thing since 1963, but back then there were no computers or printers, so much of it was done with photography.
Today, we use a graphics program (like Pagemaker or Indesign) and print with a laser printer.
The graphics get laminated with peel-n-stick sheets on both sides.
The decals are applied with what's variously known as carpet tape or window tape. It's thin and double-sided adhesive - holds real well, but can be removed if you do it carefully.
 
As Jack mentioned, it's fun to create a layout that suits you. I have pics there with a Racal and ITT Marine receiver that I did. Sometimes the purist collectors holler at me, but I don't care.
 
Here's a link of one of the projects on my site.
 
Good luck with the project.
73,
Bob
 
http://bobsamerica.com/am-demod-2.html
 
 
Dave:

I'll give you an off-the-wall solution if you don't mind it not looking 
like the original.

Have a vinyl sign printed with the labeling, shading, etc.  Apply it to 
the front panel with spray-on adhesive. The applique is the same size as 
the front panel. You can use whatever colors you want, add grouping 
boxes, etc. Let you imagination be your guide.

I've used this for some home brew projects and the results have been 
quite good.

I prepared the layout with a computer drawing tool, Visio, but most 
anything can be used. Then saved this as a PDF file and sent it to 
Kinko's, a print chain (I know they have offices in the UK) but most any 
sign shop can do this.

They printed it on a large specialist inkjet printer and the cost was 
next to trivial. My last project was 19" rack panel size wide, 3.5 
inches tall and I think it cost something like $10.00. But that was a 
while ago and prices have likely increased.

There are various types of material these signs can be printed on, as 
well as various inks. The material and ink used on my panels is 
waterproof so it can be cleaned and it holds up reasonably well to daily 
use. Ideally one would laminate with thin polycarbonate for wear 
resistance but that will increase the cost.

You have to cut the holes with a hobby knife or razor blade, but that's 
not too hard to do. I add the cutout as a graphic element to the print.

I can send you a photo or two directly if you care to see how it turned 
out.

A similar approach is used by Watkins Johnson for the 8711A/HF1000 
receiver and that's where I got the idea. They use a proper adhesive 
backed substrate instead of sign vinyl and it's thinner, but the results 
can be quite satisfactory.

Jack




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