Mega 2560 R3 Case Enclosure: Transparent Acrylic Box
The Transparent Acrylic Case Enclosure is a precisely engineered, protective housing designed specifically for the larger-format Arduino Mega 2560 R3 development board. This case safeguards the board’s extensive circuitry, including the powerful ATmega2560 microcontroller, from dust, accidental damage, and static discharge while in use.
Constructed from high-grade, transparent acrylic panels, the enclosure allows for full visibility of all components and indicator LEDs. The unique design ensures that every one of the 54 digital I/O pins, 16 analog inputs, 4 serial ports, USB jack, power jack, and ICSP header remains fully accessible for connecting shields, sensors, and peripherals. This makes it an ideal solution for complex projects that require a lot of connectivity and need a robust, yet visible, housing.
Key Features
- Custom Fit for Mega 2560 R3: Precision laser-cut dimensions guarantee a perfect fit for the standard Arduino Mega 2560 R3 board layout.
- Durable Protection: Made from tough, 3mm thick acrylic sheet, providing robust protection against physical impacts and debris while maintaining a glossy, professional appearance.
- Full Accessibility: Unique design with strategic cutouts provides unfettered access to all header pins, USB port, power jack, and the reset button.
- Vented Design: The side panels feature wiring openings and vents, and the cover plate often has a ventilation port that can be opened upwards, ensuring good heat dissipation performance for intensive projects.
- Easy Assembly: Supplied as a flat-pack kit with all necessary screws, nuts, and standoffs for a straightforward, secure assembly process without specialized tools.
- Transparent Aesthetic: The clear finish allows for easy monitoring of status LEDs and component connections.
Technical Parameters (Specifications)
| Parameter |
Value/Description |
| Material |
High-Grade Acrylic |
| Color |
Transparent (Clear) |
| Compatibility |
Standard Arduino Mega 2560 R3 |
| Assembly Required |
Yes (Kit form with hardware) |
| Dimensions |
Approx. 116mm x 65mm x 25mm (L x W x H) |
| Included Hardware |
Acrylic panels (x6), Hex Screws, Nuts, Copper pillars |
| Note |
Arduino Mega 2560 R3 board is NOT included |
Usage Instructions
The case is easy to assemble and provides a secure home for your Mega 2560 board.
Step-by-Step Assembly:
- Peel Protective Film: Gently tear off the protective paper or plastic film covering both sides of all six acrylic panels before assembly to reveal the clear surface.
- Mount the Board: Place your Arduino Mega 2560 R3 board onto the bottom acrylic cover, aligning the mounting holes with the provided copper pillars/standoffs.
- Assemble Side Panels: Plug the side panels into the base plate, ensuring all wiring ports and cutouts align with the board’s components. Snap or gently press them into place.
- Attach Top Cover: Place the top cover on the assembly, aligning the ventilation holes.
- Secure the Case: Use the included screws and nuts to fasten the entire enclosure securely together. Do not overtighten, as acrylic can crack.
- Connect: The headers remain accessible, allowing you to connect sensors, shields, or a USB cable easily.
Q: Does the Arduino Mega 2560 board come with this case?
No, the product listing is for the acrylic case and assembly hardware only. The Arduino Mega 2560 R3 board must be purchased separately.
Q: Is this case compatible with the cheaper CH340-based Mega 2560 clones?
Compatibility can vary by manufacturer. Some specific cases are designed only for the official MEGA16U2 version due to minor port placement differences. It is best to confirm with the supplier of your specific case version, though many generic cases are designed to fit both.
Q: Can I stack other Arduino shields on top of this case?
Yes, the top panel leaves all female I/O headers exposed, allowing you to stack other standard Arduino shields (like sensor shields, motor shields, etc.) on top of the encased Mega 2560 board.
Q: What is the benefit of a transparent acrylic case over a solid plastic one?
The transparent design offers aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. It allows you to monitor the board’s status LEDs at a glance and visually inspect wiring connections or troubleshooting issues without opening the enclosure.
Q: I am a business buyer/educator. Is this suitable for a classroom environment?
Yes, these cases are widely used in education as they protect expensive development boards from common classroom accidents while keeping the components visible for learning purposes. Bulk pricing is often available upon request.
