Parallella Case With 12V Fan [Revision 1.0]

thingiverse

Create a Parallella board case featuring a fan mount, requiring a 12V power source and soldering proficiency. The design is compatible with a 12V power supply, a 5V Voltage Regulator, and a 50mm 12V fan (as per the Parallella Quick Start Guide: "The board gets hot and needs a fan for reliable operation over extended periods."). Crafted in Solidworks and printed with PLA on a Makergear M2, the case intentionally blocks the 5V power jack on the Parallella to prevent 12V power supply insertion into the 5V port. Note: this tutorial involves direct soldering onto the Parallella board; proceed at your own risk. The following components were utilized in this build: a 5V, 3A Voltage Regulator; a 2.5mm DC barrel jack connector; a 50mm fan; a 12V, 3A DC Power Supply; 4x 4mm M3 screws for Parallella mounting; 4x 12mm M3 screws for fan installation in the lid; 4x M3 hex nuts; 2.54mm JST connectors; additional wiring for internal power connection; a soldering iron and solder; double-sided tape for voltage regulator mounting. Always verify wire polarity before soldering to avoid damaging electronics. Steps include: soldering the JST connector to the Parallella's 5V jack, connecting the fan and voltage regulator to the external DC power jack, verifying solder joints with a multimeter, mounting components (fan, voltage regulator, barrel jack) using provided hardware, assembling case, and powering electronics via 12V power supply. While alternative parts can be used, tested options have been selected for affordability and performance. Please provide feedback or requests for changes. A fan-free version may be uploaded, though continuous fan operation is recommended to prevent overheating.