19" Rackmount Case for Raspberry Pi and "HotSwap"-SSD

Changelog:

v1.2 2023-04-07

• removed all STL files from previous versions
• added optional zip tie hole to the back cover so the power cable can be secured (no sharp corner there, too)
• unified front cover (fits now every Raspberry Pi)
• shortend the standoff so they are just long enough but do not stick out that much like before
• sadly no new pictures (only STL preview)

v1.1 (and new pictures) 2021-11-30

• mounting to the left side of the rack is now possible
• attaching a second case next to the first one is now possible (restriction: do not use the back cover if you need the USB-C or display ports)
• added a quick edit cover for the back to grant compatibilty for Raspberry Pi 3 (and those with the same layout)

This thing combines four main aspects (and some goodies)

• rack mount option for a Raspberry Pi 4
• add an 2.5" SSD for the OS (booting) or additional storage (maximum 7mm height)
• make the SSD swapable within seconds and without using tools (kind of "Hot Swap")
• keep everything within 1U
• secure the power cable with a zip tie or similiar stuff at the back
• attach the case to the left or right side of the rack
• attach one case to another case

BOM (one case)

3x M3 countersunk screws (10mm long) for the rackmount ear
2x M3 screws (15mm to 18mm long) for the Pi
3-5x M3 nuts

Comments / Hints

• You will always need five parts: Baseplate for SSD, Baseplate for Pi, Cover Front, Cover Back, Rackmount Ear.
• Everything is fitted for M3 screws. Yes, I increased the holes of the Pi to 3mm, too (not really neccessary but more satisfying).
• While screwing down the Pi the screws will cut their own thread. If you want to use nuts please widen the holes (from 2,7 mm to 3 or 3,1mm).
• The pictures show the assembly of v1.1 without wider holes.
• In the rack v1.1 is on top. The prototype of v1.0 is below that (the one without holes on the left side).
• This especially designed for one product by Raidsonic / Icy Box with part number IB-243U3 (maybe similiar PCBs might work).
• You can still access the SD card.
• There should be enough space for a HAT (like the original PoE HAT which I use).
• After powering off the Pi you can slide the back cover off to gain access for maintenance (like changing GPIO or camera cables).

Other stuff

What is this?
A lot of people already have some kind of rack mount case for one or more Pi. Usually those do the trick. But.. I have different needs and wanted to recycle some older stuff. In addition this case is modular.

Why do you need this?
In case you are having a home lab or doing IT for a living or have a 19" rack by accident in your wardrobe... nah, forget about that. You need this if you want to recycle a specific old external SSD case.

As usuall I added the SketchUp! file for modifications. Feel free to remix this and make it fit your own needs.