The term “custom” often gets a bad reputation for translating into expensive and lengthy lead times.
However, this is not always the case when researching the best computer enclosure for a factory or plant deployment. The importance of choosing an enclosure provider that utilizes off-the-shelf items - to customize a solution that meets the users’ needs - is critical.
The right enclosure solution is more than just simply picking out a box. Enclosures are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials with numerous options for mounting, connecting and climate control. End users and system integrators can simplify the process by choosing a customized solution that ships ready to be used upon delivery.
In order to meet the individual requirements of users, enclosure companies usually stock popular models and popular accessories. Therefore, the company will be able to “build” a computer enclosure tailored to the end user’s specific needs much quicker and more efficiently, than if it was constructed ‘from-scratch.’
Enclosure specialists will work with machine builders, system integrators and other clients to design the most appropriate enclosure for the environment.
Custom Factors to Consider:
Custom Colors
Sometimes the standard color offerings will not suit the needs of the client. Custom colors to fit a company’s branding scheme or for safety reasons may be required for certain applications. It is important that an enclosure company has the ability to provide specialized colors (equivalent RAL color) on a small or large scale.
Custom Doors
Custom doors, ranging from printer access to panel mountable touchscreens, are critical to the efficiency of the enclosure solution. Finding a means to access the electronics inside the enclosure is just as important as protecting the electronics from outside dust, dirt, grease and other harmful contaminants. The enclosure can be rendered useless if there is not an easy way to access printer tickets or the ability to use a touchscreen.
Thermal Management
All manufacturing areas are different! It is smart to work with an enclosure specialist that has a thorough understanding of specifying the correct heating and cooling for a computer enclosure. The ability to tailor an off-the-shelf enclosure solution with a filtered fan system, air conditioner or heater - specific to the environment the system will be installed - is crucial.
Additional Accessories
Although it may seem like small details compared to the points previously discussed, accessories like sliding shelves, brackets, pedestals, cable entry, and power supplies can make a big difference.
Never let the word “custom” affect a decision on an enclosure solution. Custom can simply mean that the end user can pick and choose how the enclosure will look and function (size, material, thermal management, color, accessories) in a working environment. Homework is essential. Most companies have catalogs or very detailed product pages on their website that can be utilized in picking out the best enclosure and accessories for the job. As always, do not let price steer you in the wrong direction. In the end, toughness, durability, and longevity should always be the most important factors when deciding on an all-new enclosure solution.
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