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PL1:

--- Quote from: WakiMiko on November 19, 2013, 02:56:33 pm ---Speaking of PCB feet, is anyone using them to mount their mainboard? Are the screws the right size for that?

--- End quote ---
The screws should be the right size, but double check that you aren't shorting anything out.

Some boards have components/traces very close to the screw holes -- you may need to make an insulating washer by drilling a hole in a piece of plastic/cardboard then hole-punching it out. (pic shows after drilling but before punching)




--- Quote from: spratkobasa on November 19, 2013, 04:27:58 pm ---Those seem really high in the air. This may be a dumb question but why do we need mount the ipac at all?  Why not screw it directly into the MDF?

--- End quote ---
The reason they are that high is to allow air to circulate and cool the board -- more important for a motherboard than the IPac.  ;D

You can screw it directly to the MDF, but by using the PCB mounts, you can remove/replace the IPac without worrying about wearing out the mount hole in the MDF.

As screw threads bite into MDF, the MDF breaks down into fibers -- each time you remove the screw and replace it, the screw hole is more likely to strip out.


Scott
spratkobasa:
Is there a way to make the same mounting thing using local store parts?  I want to start wiring this week and don't want to wait a whole week for one part.
PL1:
Here's a method using a vinyl loop clamp and a zip tie or two.

If there's a clear path from the mounting hole to the edge of the PCB, you can use the method in pic 1.

If there's something blocking the way, use the two zip tie method.

The first zip tie is secured to the loop clamp so the tail points straight up. (pic 2)

Cut the "head" off the second zip tie and use it to hold the board down. (pic 3)

If you need to remove/replace the board, you can cut/replace the tie straps without loosening or removing the loop clamps.

Depending on the size loop clamps that you use, you may also want to put a piece of electrical tape over the screw head to prevent shorting pins or traces on the PCB.


Scott
jdbailey1206:
If you are still looking to use the pcb feet and you don't have a lot of room I would recommend purchasing a right angle ratcheting screwdriver.  You can pick one up at Harbor Freight for next to nothing.
spratkobasa:
Smart idea guys!  I have the feet but they have stickers instead.  I will use those with ties as I have a million of them.  Thank you :)
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