A Guide to Hand Held Enclosures

Introduction

When dealing with portable, sensitive electronics, their housing and protection are paramount. Handheld enclosures are significant in ensuring both the functionality and safety of electronic components. These enclosures safeguard against environmental factors and human interference and lend an aesthetic and practical hand-held interface. This comprehensive guide covers the essentials of handheld enclosures, helping you choose the right one for your needs.

What is a Hand Held Enclosure? A Brief Definition

A hand held (also written as “handheld”) enclosure is a protective casing specifically designed to comfortably fit in a user’s hand while providing secure housing for electronic components. Additionally, these compact enclosures are ideal for portable devices, including remote controls, test and measurement equipment, and diagnostic tools. A hand held enclosure comes in various shapes, sizes, IP ratings, and materials to meet different application needs and environmental conditions. Most manufacturers also offer a range of colours and finishes and aesthetic preferences and include white, yellow, black, grey, transparent, black-transparent, and a mix of these colours.

What are the Main Functions of Hand Held Enclosures? Exploring Their Significance

The primary purpose of handheld enclosures is to protect sensitive electronics and easy handling. They are significant in enhancing the longevity of your valuable devices, especially in environments where they might be exposed to harsh conditions. Moreover, investing in a high-quality handheld enclosure offers an ergonomic way to hold the devices for extended periods. Additionally, the customisability of these enclosures provides room for multiple elements, including buttons, LEDs, and display cutouts, making them a wise investment.

Standard Types of Hand Held Enclosures Unveiled

Hand held enclosures are available in different types on the market, each catering to distinct requirements. They are classified based on size, material, functionality, and intended use and include:

General-Purpose Enclosures

General-purpose enclosures are designed for the basic protection of electronic devices. However, they are commonly used for simple electronic components that don’t require additional features.

Pocket-Sized Handheld Enclosures

These are compact enclosures designed for applications where portability is a priority. Pocket-sized cases are commonly used to house consumer electronics, remote controls, and data-logging devices.

Rectangular Handheld Enclosures

Rectangular enclosures are versatile, easy to hold, and stack. They often feature rounded edges for improved ergonomics and are used in industrial and consumer electronics.

Plastic Hand Held Enclosures

A plastic hand held enclosure is lightweight, cost-effective, and versatile casing, ideal for consumer electronics and medical devices. It is generally crafted from ABS or polycarbonate materials, providing excellent durability and protection. These enclosures are available in various colour options and can be moulded into ergonomic shapes.

Aluminium Hand Held Enclosures

Aluminium provides excellent protection against corrosion and physical damage. Moreover, they are suitable for industrial applications, field instruments, and rugged environments where high strength and resistance to harsh conditions are required.

Waterproof Enclosures

These enclosures protect against moisture and are suitable for outdoor use or in wet conditions. They are rated according to IP standards (e.g., IP65, IP67), which indicate their ability to protect electronics against water ingress. Waterproof enclosures are frequently used for marine electronics, agriculture, and applications exposed to moisture or water.

Top Manufacturers of Hand-Held Enclosures: Simplifying Your Search

When choosing a handheld enclosure, sourcing from reputable manufacturers ensures quality and durability. However, these manufacturers provide a variety of options suitable for multiple applications, with high-quality materials and reliable protection. Some top global manufacturers include:

• OKW Enclosures: Their enclosures are known for ergonomic designs and customisation options.
• Hammond Manufacturing: Hammond’s hand held enclosures offer rugged cases with high IP ratings.
• ROLEC Enclosures: ROLEC provides industrial-grade enclosures with multiple customisation possibilities.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Handheld Enclosure

Choosing the right enclosure depends on several factors. When looking to purchase one, consider the following key parameters:

• Size and Form Factor: Ensure the enclosure’s size accommodates all internal components and provides a comfortable grip.
• Environmental Protection: For devices exposed to outdoor or harsh environments, opt for enclosures with appropriate IP ratings. Higher IP ratings indicate better resistance to dust and water, crucial for rugged or outdoor applications.
• Ergonomics: An ergonomic design can enhance user comfort and improve device usability, especially for handheld gadgets intended for extended use. Look for enclosures with rounded edges, grips, or finger contours.
• Accessibility and Functionality: Consider enclosures that provide access to buttons, screens, or other controls. In addition, some enclosures come with removable panels or cutouts for easy access to charging ports or connectivity options.
• Material Compatibility: Choosing an enclosure’s materials is paramount to meeting the demands of its intended usage and applications. For example, lightweight ABS may be ideal for consumer electronics, while rugged polycarbonate is better suited for industrial applications.

Final Thoughts

Hand held enclosures are indispensable portable boxes that significantly contribute to the usability, functionality, and overall success of portable electronic devices. When planning your next project, make sure to select an enclosure that aligns with your specific requirements and consider the factors we discussed in this guide. The right choice will ensure not only the safety of your components but also a comfortable, reliable user experience.