PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust). 3D Printer File Image 1

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PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust). 3D Printer File Image 5

PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust). 3D Printer File Image 6

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PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust). 3D Printer File Image 10

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PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust).

pnjorge

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Description

The PLUTO PLUS is a popular full Tx/Rx SDR with some upgrades to the original. It is prolific in the homebrew builds of QO-100 groundstations. Improvements include a more stable inherent crystal oscillator, onboard ethernet, external clock input, PTT output and also makes available two Rx/Tx chains. Recently it has become competitively available from the usual far eastern emporiums. Unfortunately the small aluminium box it ships in makes no provision for dedicated external clock or PTT sockets. Its size and lack of vents encourages heat build up. Many operators just resort to removing the upper case half or reinstalling in another box. As in the original PLUTO, RF shielding does not seem to be an issue. The PCB has on board shielding. The multilayer PCB is populated on both sides with many SMD components and care should be observed in its manipulation. It would be all too easy to damage if inadvertently manhandled.

This design accommodates the PLUTO PLUS board and makes available a connector for a Reference Frequency input through a short pigtail connection to the on-board CLK IN socket. Provisions also exist for an RCA connector for a PTT control cable, next to the two USB-Micro sockets for Data and Power.

Ventilation is assured by Tangram style vent holes on the upper surface. A feature lacking in the original unit, which built up heat quickly in the enclosed case. Here, there is also sufficient height space for chip heatsinks if so desired although I've never felt the need, providing the unit is properly vented. Relying only on the overall system cooling fans has provided trouble free operation in hot climates with temperatures exceeding 40degC in the shade.

Four brass M3 screw inserts are used on the top cover to hold everything together. Assembly is intuitively straightforward, with small 20mm M3 screws used to join the two sections. There is ample space to not touch any SMDs but take care. Do not overtighten any screws. For mounting inside a chassis use longer screws as appropriate.

I used 10mm diameter self-sticking rubber feet on the base. There are embossed areas for these on the case design. When chassis mounting it is perhaps judicious to keep these feet so as to allow airflow underneath the case and PCB.

This case is similar in style and size to my previous design for the generic ADALM PLUTO .
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:7214700

Use your favourite filament. I printed in PETG.

73
Paulo, F5VMJ

https://youtu.be/tsvfB5zt5CY

License:

Creative Commons - Attribution - Non-Commercial - No Derivatives

PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust).

PLUTO PLUS SDR Case - (Ventilated, Clock Input, PTT Output, Robust).

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