UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum - View Single Post - Simple method to mark calibration and functions externally on a case?

Radio1950 · 18th Feb 2018, 3:27 am

Hi there,

For some projects, I use the method outlined by Tony in post #14.

1 - draw up in Inkscape, a vector drafting program, free, great.
2 - print on photo paper, two copies, first copy as a panel drilling guide
3 - use 2-3 mm clear Lexan (polycarbonate) avbl in small bits ex signwriters
4 - screw fix the "scale" etc and protective plastic overlay at corners etc.

Seems to work and last well.
You can use any drawing program instead of Inkscape.

Inkspot allows both "snap to grid" and freehand positioning, and scaling to exactly fit your project front panel size.
You can also make multiple layers as drill guides and final panel, and print separately.
And you always have a spare label if reqd.

I have also made scales for 50mm analogue panel meters, eg SWR, and "non-linear RF power meter" scales, and just glued it over the original meter scale.
I used the free French program "Galva" to draw the scales, then print as above.

Here are some photos of some examples using this process.
The minor labels on the Z Bridge are just Brother tape labels, which seem to be quite durable, and easily replaceable
mike

18th Feb 2018, 3:27 am	#30
Radio1950 Hexode Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Buderim, Queensland, Australia. Posts: 428	Re: Simple method to mark calibration and functions externally on a case? Hi there, For some projects, I use the method outlined by Tony in post #14. 1 - draw up in Inkscape, a vector drafting program, free, great. 2 - print on photo paper, two copies, first copy as a panel drilling guide 3 - use 2-3 mm clear Lexan (polycarbonate) avbl in small bits ex signwriters 4 - screw fix the "scale" etc and protective plastic overlay at corners etc. Seems to work and last well. You can use any drawing program instead of Inkscape. Inkspot allows both "snap to grid" and freehand positioning, and scaling to exactly fit your project front panel size. You can also make multiple layers as drill guides and final panel, and print separately. And you always have a spare label if reqd. I have also made scales for 50mm analogue panel meters, eg SWR, and "non-linear RF power meter" scales, and just glued it over the original meter scale. I used the free French program "Galva" to draw the scales, then print as above. Here are some photos of some examples using this process. The minor labels on the Z Bridge are just Brother tape labels, which seem to be quite durable, and easily replaceable mike Attached Thumbnails