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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: thorr on August 28, 2019, 03:42:27 am

Title: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: thorr on August 28, 2019, 03:42:27 am

Hello, I am working on several projects that require running cables into plastic project boxes, including potentially building some handheld USB joysticks.  If I have a plastic case with a screw on lid, I can drill a hole where the two parts meet and run a USB cable through the hole.  However, it can slide back and forth.  What do I need to clamp the cable in place so it does not move.  A grommet wouldn't help because it doesn't hold the cable in place.  Maybe a grommet with hot glue on the inside of the case?  I also thought of putting clamps on the inside and the outside but that would take up a lot of room and look bad.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  My current joystick that I built had a panel mount USB port, but the cable kept getting disconnected when I was playing.  I ended up removing the panel mount and running the cable through the large hole and tying a knot so it wouldn't come out, but it is still loose.  I want a permanent cable solution that doesn't unplug from the joystick and looks nice.

Thanks!

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: Laythe on August 28, 2019, 04:07:47 am

I believe the term-of-art that you are looking for here is, "Strain Relief". 

As a search term, that should get you what you seek. 

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: thorr on August 28, 2019, 04:24:09 am

Thanks!  Something like this?  https://www.amazon.com/eBoot-Plastic-Waterproof-Adjustable-3-5-13mm/dp/B01GJ03AUQ?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_13

With a product like that, the main issue is having to cut the USB connector end off to fit the cable through the hole, then resolder the connector back on. 

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: big10p on August 28, 2019, 06:59:05 am

You can get clamping ones like these.

https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/products/1757555?cm_mmc=UK-PLA-DS3A-_-google-_-PLA_UK_EN_Cables_And_Wires-_-Cable_Glands_And_Strain_Relief_And_Grommets%7CCable_Grommets_And_Grommet_Strips-_-PRODUCT_GROUP&matchtype=&aud-358527060186:pla-510671976128&s_kwcid=AL!7457!3!243856868342!!!g!510671976128!&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjwzJjrBRBvEiwA867byoNz0gbl6VUB8P_Hg0cTRSg5H6xve0eL0AFLYtN-fyO-LO0EAEPWORoCiDMQAvD_BwE (https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/products/1757555?cm_mmc=UK-PLA-DS3A-_-google-_-PLA_UK_EN_Cables_And_Wires-_-Cable_Glands_And_Strain_Relief_And_Grommets%7CCable_Grommets_And_Grommet_Strips-_-PRODUCT_GROUP&matchtype=&aud-358527060186:pla-510671976128&s_kwcid=AL!7457!3!243856868342!!!g!510671976128!&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjwzJjrBRBvEiwA867byoNz0gbl6VUB8P_Hg0cTRSg5H6xve0eL0AFLYtN-fyO-LO0EAEPWORoCiDMQAvD_BwE)

I would also put a cable tie on the cable, right behind the gland, inside the case. This helps protect against the cable being yanked through the gland.

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: thorr on August 28, 2019, 04:46:55 pm

Thanks!  That is a good idea about the cable tie / zip tie.  I saw they also have split grommets.  If I put it where the lid meets the body, it could pinch the cable a bit, so that might be another option along with the zip tie.  I could also put a zip tie on the outside, but that wouldn't look as nice. 

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: big10p on August 31, 2019, 09:58:02 am

You won't need a zip tie on the outside, as that will just stop the cable from being yanked into the box, which won't be an issue when it's all fitted together.

Title: Re: How to run a cable into a project box and clamp it in place
Post by: testicle187 on September 01, 2019, 12:55:54 pm

Tie the cable in a knot on the inside and hot glue in place.  That is how most cables are secured from the inside.