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bl2409-pocket-enclosures-a

HIGH POPULARITY OF POCKET ELECTRONICS

Virtually everyone has a mobile phone. For sheer ubiquity, they’re the ultimate in pocket electronics. And that raises the bar – because users of your pocket-sized device will almost always compare it to their much-loved cellphone.

Is your device as light as their phone? Is it as easy to hold and operate? Does it look as good? Does it truly reflect the sophistication of the electronics inside? All these questions – and more – make specifying the right enclosure critical.

Pocket electronics command almost the same high levels of user expectation as wearables. They may not be in continuous contact with the skin but they come close to it. Perhaps only a pocket lining separates the device from the user. So be meticulous when specifying the enclosure…

SPECIFYING POCKET-SIZED ELECTRONIC ENCLOSURES

Ergonomics matter even more than usual. If a device is too big to fit a human hand, then it won’t fit in a pocket. That’s obvious. However, what is less obvious is that the opposite is not necessarily true: not all handheld enclosures are ‘pocket perfect’.

But the ‘handheld factor’ is certainly a good starting point. The contours that make a well-designed handheld enclosure comfortable to grip will often make it a potential contender for ‘pocketability’.

Size and weight are key, as is the shape. There must be no awkward sharp corners that will snag on the pocket lining (or worse still, gradually wear a hole in it). The enclosure must be light (and yet remain strong). Heavy devices can ruin the look of clothing, dragging and stretching a pocket until eventually the frayed lining parts company with the outer cloth.

Functionality is equally important. Look for enclosures that – despite their small size and ergonomic curves – still have a generous operating area. Is the lid recessed and capable of hosting a small touch screen or a membrane keypad?

Durability matters too. How tough is the enclosure? Does it have sufficient ingress protection? Will it be used outdoors? Does it need to be UV stable? If so, an otherwise reliable plastic such as ABS may not be up to the task. Specify ASA (or an ASA blend) that can better withstand the power of the Sun’s rays.

Aesthetics are always important but much more so when dealing with personal electronics. Again, it comes back to user expectations. Buyers are less prepared to compromise when the device is something they must carry on their person and use day in, day out.

Quality enclosures pay dividends because they showcase your electronics. Cheap, unattractive boxes will always be a false economy because if a user doesn’t like the look of your device, they’re less likely to pick it up – let alone buy it and put it in their pocket.

Other factors to consider include the size of the enclosure range. Do you want your pocket-sized device to match others in a series? If so, you’ll need medium-sized and large enclosures that match the small one you like.

Accessories are important too: does the enclosure range offer a good selection? For a start, does it include a pocket clip, belt clip or key ring eyelet? Is there a docking station for charging and data transfer? Or will you simply rely on a USB port? Inductive charging may also be an option.

Whatever your preferred charging method, you’ll need to think about a battery. So – unless you’re planning an on-the-PCB cell or an integrated power source – think about ranges that include battery clips and plug-in connectors as accessories.

Below you’ll find some great customisable enclosures for pocket-sized electronics. We’ve listed them in ascending size order. There are plenty of these standard housings to choose from (so less customisation is needed)...

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