It's been a long time since I last looked at the B&K Precision/Sefram DAS240-BAT Multi-Channel Recorder which I previously RoadTested back in January 2020. Since the review, it seems that Sefram have come up with a few firmware updates, bringing the latest version of firmware up to V2.5. Updating is as simple as putting the file onto a USB flash drive, attaching it and going into the settings menu to do an update. Then the unit requires a reboot to apply the update - no qualms there. Does the update fix all of the identified quirks? I've not had the time to find out, but I suppose any update is better than none.
Instead, I've recently started to explore the world of 3D Printing after I purchased myself not one, but two 3D printers at a very reasonable price.
The DAS240-BAT has always felt rather bare and exposed with its LCD occupying most of the front side. Even though it has rubber bumpers and a shoulder strap, I've not felt comfortable carrying this around without some protection. The RoadTest did not include their accessories which includes a carrying case - Rugged carrying case for DAS220 or DAS240 Model 902408000. Looking at the Australian element14 listing for it showed it would be about AU$282 which seems a bit on the pricey side. It's also a little bulky, but it does accommodate the full set of equipment.
Instead, I wanted to protect the LCD so I decided to print a cover for it. It would be moderately thick (~3mm) and would cover over the LCD, relying on friction with the rubber bumper and metal body sides to hold it into place. Because of the size of the LCD panel, I couldn't print it in one piece due to the limited printing area of the 3D printer I used, so I decided to make two symmetrical pieces.
Fitting it is as simple as fitting a jigsaw together and friction seems to hold it in place acceptably. But two pieces is not as nice as making it a large piece. As I had no glue to hand, I decided to make a third piece that will grab onto the two pieces and hold it together. This piece had to be printed vertically due to the shape of the overhang.
It may not look as pretty, but now the lid comes off and goes on as one piece. It's simple, not very elegant, but it's effective in stopping stray screen interactions when operating unattended and preventing flying wire scraps from scratching the screen.
Best of all, I made it in Tinkercad, as one of my first 3D printing projects. If you have one of these, perhaps you might want to print one for yourself? The .stl files are attached as a ZIP in case you do.
