Matrix E-blocks Notice D'utilisation page 9

metal objects on the bench. The disadvantage
of this is that your E-blocks system will not be
secure and that the connectors will be under
more stress as the system is moved about.
Using covers
In some circumstances it is advisable to only
allow access to certain parts of the E-blocks
boards. This includes situations where settings
or chip selections made on E-blocks do not
want changing, where there is a chance of van-
dalism, or where there is a chance of theft of
components on the E-blocks themselves.
To facilitate this clear acrylic covers are avail-
Fig 20 - Multiprogrammer with clear cover
able for all E-blocks as you can see in Figure
20 with the USB PICmicro microcontroller
Multiprogrammer. Covers are mounted onto
E-blocks with 25mm M3 bolts and 10mm or
12mm spacers using the same grid of holes
that are used for mounting the E-blocks to
the backplane. The cross section diagram in
Figure 21 shows how this is done.The tight
fitting clear acrylic covers add considerable
Fig 21 - Cover side profile
strength to each E-block as well as making
them - to some extent - tamper proof.
The exception to this is the switch board
Fig 22 - Switch board with cover
which, because the switches are relatively
short, requires the spacers to be replaced
with M3 lock nuts before the cover is put into
place. This can be seen in figure 22.
Further security
If you are concerned about the security of
your E-blocks systems themselves then it is
possible to attach them to a bench using a
Kingston style lock as you can see in figure 23.
Fig 23 - Backplane lock
Making your own equipment
In additon to the backplanes it is also pos-
sible to buy rugged plastic storage trays for
E-blocks. These are slightly larger than a metal
backplane which means they are ideal for
storage and distribution of E-blocks based
Fig 24 - A completed E-blocks system with tray
systems. In Figure 24 you can see a prototype
mobile phone made from E-blocks (with cov-
ers) and one of the plastic trays. Lids, packing
and freight boxes are also available.
Making your own E-blocks
The prototype and patch boards that are
part of the E-blocks range, allow you to make
E-blocks with your own circuits on.
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