Openviro has undergone a significant change this week with an upgrade to its enclosure. The initial 3D-printed IO shields, while excellent for prototyping, were not robust enough for long-term use in a rack-mounted environment. To address this, we redesigned the panels and had them laser cut out of 5052 1.6 mm aluminum. The panels now offer a far better fit and finish, and have the added rigidity needed from a rackmount device.

I’m thrilled with this first run of panels. We’re currently exploring finishing options with the manufacturer to achieve a polished final product. Laser engraving will happen in house to keep costs as low as possible.

With the metal panels on their way to a final design, we’re one step closer to making the Openviro Axe PoE a finished product ready for retail.

The video below explores this upgrade in more detail: