Many thanks to Rick (K8BMA) who writes:
I’ve had a SW-3B for a couple of years now. Even use it in the ham shack.
I also have a KX2. From packing the KX2 around, I have noticed problems with the main tuning encoder, probably from having weight up against it. I pack it in one of the bags they sell.
Recently, I came across 3D printed end plates, cover and, STL files for the SW-3B. My son, a packaging engineer printed off a set of these parts at work for me.
Just what you need for yours. I also found a similar cover for the KX2. Next on my list.
Enjoy your posts.
73, Rick K8BMA
Thank you so much for sharing this, Rick! I believe you printed KN6EZE’s side panels and cover that are available on Thingiverse. I am definitely planning to print some of these as well. One reader noted that the encoder is a bit of a weak point on the SW-3B and it should be protected in transport if possible.
I’ve been thinking about grabbing some KX2 side rails and Lexan cover from this company. Then again, I reckon I could also simply print some!
Thank you for the tip!
Glad you enjoy the enclosure and hope it serves you well! If you have any suggestions I’m always looking to improve my designs. Really enjoy reading your blog posts and watching your videos. Keep em comin’!
What units are the components designed in (mm, in)?
Hi Rich,
Downloaded your files for the sw-3b and gave them to a friend to print. However, he said there was some issue with the process. Was hoping I could purchase a set from you via PayPal.
72 Gary KE2YK
Gary,
Hi. These are not my designs. They are KN5EZE’s. I was hoping he’d jump in here eventually and answer my question about what units these are designed in. Hopefully he will see your comment as well.
73
I design everything in mm. I still wonder why we haven’t done away with standard 🙂
@Rick – Glad you enjoy the enclosure and hope it serves you well! If you have any suggestions I’m always looking to improve my designs.
@Thomas – Really enjoy reading your blog posts and watching your videos. Keep em comin’!
Thank you, Mike! Brilliant little design!
BTW: I’ll end up ordering material to print this. What type of filament would you recommend? I’d rather avoid ABS, but guessing PLA might not be durable enough.
I’ve been pleased with the Gems KX2 rails and cover. Wondering if there will be enough demand for an X6100 option as well.
Mike,
Not sure how the output transistors in the SW-3B are mounted. Many small rigs mount them to an end plate. You might consider adding a cutaway for heat disapation.
But… Many thanks for your design and files.
Hi Mike…
I have seen your cover for the SW-3B and would very much like to purchase, if possible, a set for my Venus as it currently is the only radio I have left after flooding. I do not have the equipment and knowledge to print these myself.
Please excuse my unsolicited message to you but you can reply to my email:
[email protected]
73
Ron Kerlin
KB9LSH
Hey Tom, Just ordered the SW-3B. I need another QRP rig like an additional hole in my head but I have to keep the XYL guessing! Anyway as always thanks for bringing the info for the side rails and cover for the SW-3B. Should be a fun little field radio to deploy along with KM4ACK’s End Fed Kit! Experimentation at it’s finest!
Woo hoo!
I print all radio gear with PETG for its durability and UV resistance. After pretty extensive testing with various pieces of 3D printed gear, I found that PLA doesn’t cut it for outdoor gear, especially in any sort of heat (warping issues and so forth).