RC2014 module cases

Module Cases designed for RC2014

These are STL and SketchUp designs of module cases to be used on RC2014 or similar backplanes. I tried to mimic an 80s/90s era look & feel like MSX or Nintendo game cartridges. While working with it I got flash backs to the SpectraVideo SVI Super Expander.

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Features

• Compatible with standard and enhanced RC2014 bus - http://rc2014.co.uk/1377/module-template/
• Probably compatible with other similar bus systems
• Good guidance system, so you can insert it blindly
• Can be inserted in any of the slots on the Backplane Pro
• Only occupies one slot
• Relaxed license

RC2014 Pro Backplane case

The modules work best together with my RC2014: Pro Backplane case https://www.printables.com/model/401892-rc2014-pro-backplane-case

Different flavours

Note that only RC2014 modules with a double row header (2x 39 or 2x 40 pins) are supported! Some modules are shipped with a single row header (for example the RC40 bus) but that won't work with my cases as it has a different offset. In these situation you can use a double row header, remove all pins for the secondary row and solder this instead of the single row header.

Printing instructions

• Print with 0.2mm layer height
• I used 2 layer perimeters and 5 top layers, 4 bottom layers
• Infill 15% grid or gyriod
• Has been tested with PLA, but other materials may work to. Make sure you use a PLA that is not too brittle as the PCB stands could easily break
• Supports are not needed for most designs
  • Some designs have built-in supports that need to be cut away
• Be sure to print the LED window with transparent filament

Assembling instructions

• Insert the PCB with top first into the upper clips of the module case
• Then push the bottom down until it clicks
• Break away any clips that are in the way of important features of the PCB
• Then slide the top cover into the case until it clicks
• I used a Dymo LabelWriter 450 with (durable) Dymo 99012 labels from AliExpress for the labels
• In the LED window two LEDs will fit. Glue it in. Use a resistor to connect it to 5V.

Known issue: sometimes the clips holding the PCB on the sides tend to break. Maybe a bit more clearance is needed in the model. If they break, glue is a good alternative.

Inserting instructions

• Ensure power of the backplane is turned off!
• Let the module rest on the slotconnector of the backplane with the back first
• Wiggle a bit from left to right
• Insert it gently
• Push down until it is fully seated
   

References

"RC2014 is a simple 8 bit Z80 based modular computer originally built to run Microsoft BASIC. It is inspired by the home built computers of the late 70s and computer revolution of the early 80s."

source: https://rc2014.co.uk

• RC2014 is a trademark of RFC2795 Ltd (www.rc2014.co.uk). My modules do not adhere strictly to the "designed for RC2014"labeling scheme, though they are interoperable.
  • http://rc2014.co.uk
  • http://z80kits.com
• RC40 bus is a trademark of Karl Albert Brokstad
• Karl Albert Brokstad's modules info: https://www.z80.no
  • His stuff on Tindie: https://www.z80.no/info/tindie.html