To ensure the proper performance, it is important to select an enclosure with gasket material that is designed and rated for the installation environment (inside or outside). According to Peter Taraborelli, in his blog, Best Rubber Gasket Materials for Weather Resistance, “The location of a gasket is of utmost importance, especially if it is going to be exposed to the elements. For this reason, it’s imperative to choose top quality weather resistant materials to enhance the longevity and performance of outdoor gaskets. There are several important factors to think about in regard to weather resistance including sunlight, temperature, ozone, and inclement weather conditions (rain, hail, sleet, snow, etc.).”

The three main types of gasket applied to computer enclosures are strip (most widely used gasket), foam in place, and die cut. Manufacturers can select the material width and thickness for each gasket application, as well as adhesive type, for a simple direct application to an enclosure. Enclosure gasket can be made of a variety of materials which offer varying temperature ranges, chemical resistance, and other important characteristics.

3 Types of Enclosure Gasket:

Polyurethane:

Temperature Range of -40° to 158°F (-40° to 70°C)

Easy to create irregular shaped gaskets

Neoprene:

Most common material used for gasket

Temperature Range of -67° to 250°F (-55° to 120°C)

Waterproof; Offers resistance against chemical, abrasion, and tears

Silicone:

Temperature Range of -40° to 450°F (-40° to 232°C)

Resistance to UV and other weather related elements

High Temperature Resistance

Regular enclosure gasket maintenance will ensure optimal performance! Even gasket that is properly specified for the application should be examined for damage, such as tearing or gouging. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to replace the entire door vs. just the gasket. This will ensure that UL and NEMA ratings are still maintained. Gaskets perform a critical job in keeping particulate matter outside of the enclosure. David Greenfield, in his article ‘Enclosures: Critical Specification Factors’ sums up the importance of gaskets, “The gasket is the most critical component for maintaining the enclosure seal, and it must be maintained to ensure proper protection.”

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In an industrial setting, a dust-tight, waterproof enclosure can protect a computer, a monitor, a printer, a keyboard, and various other electronics from harsh elements, like splashing fluids, dust, dirt, lint, and fibers in the air. However, while the enclosure is keeping materials from entering the cabinet, it is also preventing heat from properly exiting. The build-up of heat – on the inside of the enclosure – can slowly damage electronics. Thermal management (like a filtered fan system) will keep the overall heat load to a minimum by removing excess heat. Plus, filters will ensure particulate matter is kept outside of the enclosure and away from electronics.

What fan system will work for you and your specific environment? What are the differences between outdoor and indoor filtered fan systems?

Indoor Filtered Fan:

Filtered fan systems are designed to force hot air out of an enclosure. With forced air, a filtered fan system will aid in ‘cooling’ down the inside of an enclosure. Without some type of cooling, heat build-up will negatively affect electronics and cause them to work less effectively or even fail completely.

Filtered fan systems also create a positive pressure on the inside of the enclosure and keep dust and damaging contaminants from harming electronics. Depending on the size of particulate matter in the air, a filter can be used in varying thicknesses and can be made of different materials, including aluminum and synthetic fiber. For a fan to run properly, filters should be cleaned or replaced on a regular basis. The gasket seal around the fan and exhaust housing will also keep dust and splashing water from entering the cabinet.

Filtered fan systems are more economical than most thermal management systems and installation is rather simple. Indoor fans should only be used in areas with light splashing or dripping of liquids. Avoid using ‘indoor’ filtered fan systems in wash-down applications as they do not maintain a waterproof seal. In addition, harsh cleaning chemicals have the potential to destroy filters and can even eat away at fan blades.

Outdoor Filtered Fan:

If deploying an enclosure outdoors (in sun or shade) or in a wet, wash-down environment, consider how much precipitation/liquid is going to be in contact with the fan. Outdoor filtered fans often have a lockable cover to offer protection from harsh elements and will shield the fan from hose directed fluids. The exhaust is usually located on the bottom of the fan system, to prevent water from penetrating the inside of the enclosure. In order for the fan system to fail, an operator would literally have to spray water upwards into the fan housing. The outdoor filtered fan assembly is usually sloped for proper runoff to occur during wash-down or in the event of heavy precipitation, like blowing rain or sleet. Filters should also be changed regularly, and most can be quickly changed from the outside of the enclosure. Some filters are even moisture resistant. Other considerations include the materials used for the blades and the body of the fan. Plastic parts will withstand exposure to various types of cleaning products/liquids and harsh UV light.

Recirculating Fan:

A third option is a recirculating fan. This simple fan system will help to distribute and circulate the air inside of an enclosure to help electronics run smoothly. These fans do not have an exhaust, nor do they require any filter media. Recirculating fans can also be used in conjunction with enclosures that are exposed to the elements with vents or louvres. Recirculating fans are ideal for NEMA 4 or 4X enclosures with electronics that will not produce a large amount of heat, such as monitors and computers. These fans can usually be attached to an enclosure’s uni-strut and do not require cutting into the enclosure body.

Thermal management is necessary to remove heat that is produced by electronics concealed in an industrial enclosure. A thermostat should also be used to regulate the temperature inside of the enclosure and to eliminate the fan from running 24/7. It is important to note that most fans can be installed by expertly cutting into the enclosure with a provided cutout template. Most of the cutouts are in the shape of a square. The fan and/or exhaust can then be snapped into place and screwed into the enclosure.

Additional aspects to consider include the voltage of the fan, the noise level of the fan, the minimum/maximum ambient temperature, and the fan CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. For an accurate recommendation, work with an enclosure expert to configure the best solution. (cooling worksheet)

While simple in operation, filtered fan systems can save electronics from failure!

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When installing thermal management on heavy-duty computer enclosures, fan or air conditioner filters are essential in keeping particulate matter away from sensitive electronics. Filters will make it easier to keep oil, dust, dirt, fibers, and lint away from the inside of the enclosure system. However, after deploying an industrial computer enclosure, it is common for filter maintenance to be overlooked (or not checked on a regular basis). Depending on the harshness of the environment, filters should be checked at least 1-2 times a month (or possibly more) to ensure that airflow is properly circulated throughout the enclosure.

Here are some guidelines for enclosure filter replacement:

1. The filter has reached its cleaning limit

If the filter is packed full of dust/dirt, then it might be time to change it out or simply try to clean it. Many standard thermal management filters (fan systems, air conditioners, heat exchangers) can be washed and reused. Aluminum filters (and some mesh filters) can be washed with dish soap and warm water, providing a clean slate for continued enclosure fan use. However, it is crucial to note that a filter will eventually deteriorate and reach a level where cleaning is not possible. If this occurs, throw it out and install a fresh filter.

2. A preventive maintenance schedule

Manufacturing plants, across the country, could have the exact same airborne particulates, but each may require different enclosure maintenance schedules based on unique conditions. The ideal maintenance schedule should be based on the individual needs of each location. Start with the manufacturer’s recommendation to create a baseline for your schedule to create the most cost effective, long term strategy.

3. The filter is no longer providing filtration

Grease or airborne oil will wreak havoc on the effectiveness of a filter and will quickly clog it – rendering it virtually useless within the enclosure’s fan system. It is simply not enough to clean the filters when you notice temperatures are starting to rise, as it is likely too late to correct the problem. Failing to maintain the proper maintenance – on an air conditioner or fan – will cause the enclosure’s fan system to be inoperable at the intended capacity and will lead to faulty parts, which will require replacement(s). This will all take a big hit on the yearly budget.

4. The environment varies throughout the year

To cool off the plant, manufacturing facilities are notorious for leaving doors open during the warm weather months. Seasonal fluctuations, in the air, may drive inconsistency with thermal management filtration. Pollen, for example, will be present during the summer, but non-existent during the winter. It is not enough to monitor the filters for a few weeks and figure out an anticipated maintenance schedule. Some months may be less harsh and dirty than others. It is vital to check your filters regularly, every month of the year.

Always find the ‘sweet spot’ between replacing filters too often and not doing so often enough. It will be ‘trial-and-error’ to figure out when to clean or replace. During the initial enclosure deployment, check and double check the filters every few days to make sure that air is flowing through them properly. A grimy filter will hinder the thermal management airflow process and could damage the electronics on the inside of the enclosure. Filters are not very expensive, so they should not be the reason that a computer, monitor, keyboard, or printer cease to work. Downtime can be detrimental to the bottom line. When it comes to filters – check and check often.

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When deploying computer enclosures in a harsh and hot environment, a filtered fan system (or thermal management) consideration should be at the top of the project “to-do list.” Without a doubt, electronics will generate heat on the inside of a computer enclosure. The heat will need to be abated or it will be harmful to essential equipment. No company wants downtime from failed equipment. In many instances, filtered fan systems are an ideal way to generate airflow and remove heat.

Fans and filters – in various sizes – are available on the computer enclosure market. When installing computer enclosures on a factory or industrial plant floor, a fan should be explored. The filtered fan system should blow ‘cool’ air into the computer enclosure and keep dust and damaging contaminants out. A filtered fan system creates a positive pressure on the inside of the enclosure. Positive pressure will keep a computer enclosure free of dust and dirt.

Filtered Fan System Considerations:

1. Install electronic components – housed in the enclosure with the highest heat dissipation – towards the top of the enclosure, where excess hot air will be forced out through the filtered fan system exhaust. Electronics, like computers, printers, and servers tend to generate a good amount of heat when continually in use.

2. It is also important to consider the location of the filtered fan system on the computer enclosure. The filtered fan system should be installed towards the bottom of a computer enclosure and the exhaust should be towards the top. This will provide the coolest air flow and will remove the heat that will rise during the day.

3. Some fans are designed to run continuously, while others can be combined with a thermostat to only turn on when needed. Thermostats should be considered to cut down on the fan running excessively, which may result in the motor burning out. Thermostats are easily explained on doityourself.com, [a] “thermostat comes into play as soon as a certain relatively high temperature is reached inside the [enclosure]. This will cause the fan to receive a signal. To put it simply, the motor will start running and the blades rotating, so as to start working to regulate the temperature in the air until it becomes cooler.

4. Inquire what level of filtration is required with the fan system. According to Air Quality Engineering, a micron is “a millionth of a meter. To put in perspective, the average human hair is 150 microns in diameter while dust is typically 5 to 10 microns in size.” For example, a 10-micron filter is commonly used on industrial fan systems in computer enclosures. However, for manufacturing environments that have very fine dust/debris in the air, a 3-micron filter, a finer filtration, may be required. Keep in mind, the finer or denser the filtration media, the less air you will be able to move through the filter and computer enclosure.

A filtered fan system or thermal management, in general, is the most important factor in determining whether electronics will have a lengthy life or a short life. Obviously, it is important to get optimum operating life from your electronic equipment and to mitigate lengthy and costly downtime. In the end, filtered fan systems are easy to install in computer enclosures and almost maintenance free (changing out filter after extended use).

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While performing an Internet image search, computer enclosures – from various companies – may look very similar. However, computer enclosures are not created equal!

In a factory or manufacturing environment, a high-quality, industrial computer enclosure will protect vital electronic components better than subpar enclosure products. When a customer makes a computer enclosure decision based solely on the lowest price, they fail to consider the electronics which will be stored inside of the enclosure. Electrical components housed inside of a dependable, protective computer enclosure will have a longer life and will continue to work, even in the harshest of environments.

3 Aspects of a Quality Computer Enclosure:

Enclosure Construction

Material construction is one of the most important factors in determining the quality of a computer enclosure. For a durable product, the gauge or thickness of the steel – used to build the body of the computer enclosure – should be around 14 gauge (5/64” thick). The higher number for a gauge of steel equals a thinner material. According to the website Sciencing, “Standard sheet steel comes in various thicknesses which are classified by steel gauge. Each gauge has a tolerance range to allow for small variances in thickness.” For example, a cabinet that uses 18-gauge (1/80” thick) or 20-gauge steel (3/80” thick) is the equivalent material of a standard filing cabinet. This ‘thinner’ material will not have the necessary ruggedness to withstand an industrial environment for an extended period.

Enclosure Hardware

The type, style, and quality of computer enclosure hardware used on the cabinet is also of importance. Durable computer enclosure products will use heavy-duty or stainless-steel hardware for the doors, drawers, hinges, and/or latches. Many lower priced enclosure options utilize carbon steel hardware that can rust over time, making it difficult to open and probably a little noisy. Stainless steel hardware will last ‘forever and a day’ and is corrosion resistant, which means it can withstand a washdown. Heavy-duty plastic hardware can also be used for the enclosure’s hardware.

Enclosure Finish

Compared to a traditional “wet spray” paint finish, heavy-duty steel enclosures with a powder coat finish are less likely to scratch. The process of powder coating requires a clean surface that is sprayed with electrostatically charged polyester powder, and then finished off with a curing in an oven. Powder coating is also advantageous if using the computer enclosure outdoors, as it is more UV resistant when compared to liquid paints. The blog, ‘What Types of Powder Coating Are There?’ explains the durability of powder coating, “The [powder coating] process allows people to coat various metal parts and pieces with an extra layer of protection that is as durable as it is attractive. Though often confused with a typical paint job, powder coating offers a much more robust level of security for your metal parts.

There is more to selecting the correct computer enclosure than just an inexpensive price. Research an enclosure company which will provide a superior product in a reasonable timeframe. Communication is key to building an enclosure that will suit the needs of your manufacturing process. The old saying holds true: “you get what you pay for.”

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If the proper planning is executed from the beginning of the process, finding the best computer enclosure does not have to be overwhelming. Setting aside time for adequate research is the best course of action and will pay off in the long run. Keep in mind: not every enclosure company has the same product for the same price, and appropriate product comparisons should be made and reviewed.

What steps should be completed to find the perfect solution?

6 Steps to Specifying the Best Computer Enclosure for the Job:

1. Define Requirements

Meet with the team members involved on the enclosure expansion to clearly define the computer enclosure requirements. Important items to consider, include the NEMA rating, power supply, locks, hinges, window choices, thermal management, environmental temperature extremes, space requirements to house electronics (computer, monitor, printer, UPS, etc.), and the overall durability of the enclosure material. If every team member is on the same page at the beginning, there will be no surprises when the equipment arrives on site.

2. Research

Complete the necessary homework! Every enclosure company is going to make claims that they offer the highest quality computer enclosures on the market. However, if you dig a little deeper, you will find that the materials and hardware used – to build some enclosures – are flimsy. In the end, experience speaks for itself. To make sure you are purchasing the best product, submit the clearly defined project requirements to enclosure providers for a recommendation on their best product. Also, do not overlook the length of the warranty being offered. This could help down the road, if something unexpected occurs.

3. Choose the Best Supplier

When possible, evaluate a potential computer enclosure in person, or inquire if an evaluation unit is available. Most companies are willing to send one unit for a hands-on review, in anticipation of selling multiple units after the evaluation period is over. Companies with heavy duty units are always eager to send over a sample unit, because it will likely impress the end user. If an evaluation unit is not available, ask the enclosure supplier for a list of referrals of similar companies that they have worked with on previous projects.

4. Pricing

Once it is determined what (product) and who (enclosure supplier) has the best solution for the project, obtain a competitive price quote. Too often, customers ‘ballpark’ their budget far too low in the beginning and do not perform the correct evaluation of the products available on the market. Poor initial budgets could equate to sacrificing enclosure quality, which may end up costing a company more money over the course of time.

5. Create a Timeline

From electronics to accessories, understand the lead time for all the items required to properly execute a successful computer enclosure plan. Enclosure suppliers always have a handful of best-selling products ‘in stock,’ which means the lead time should only be a few days. However, if a specialized project requires a custom-made enclosure, then the lead time can be extensive. At times, a customer may need an enclosure solution in two weeks, but in order to fabricate a new product, the lead time could take up to 2 months. This will create headaches for everyone involved in the process. Failing to prepare – in a timely manner – may result in expedite fees to meet the company’s “go live” date.

6. Execute

If all of the ducks are in a row, executing the project will prove to be the easiest part! Be sure to assign a project manager to keep everything moving on the right track. In the end, if the plan was implemented properly, then the project will be a huge success. Also, save the enclosure supplier’s number or email, because you may want to order more units in the future!

Poor planning may result in poor product choices. In order to get the right product for the job, always ask questions (and more questions) during the process. How much will this cost? Will the chosen enclosure be best for my environment? What is the lead time? How will this ship? Can this product have thermal management? Can a printer fit? How will power enter the enclosure? These are just a few of the queries to ponder.

Detailed research is always the best course of action. When it comes to purchasing new computer enclosures, it is always good to have a strategy.

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The term “custom” enclosure often gets a poor reputation for being more expensive than standard units and having excessive lead times. However, this is not always the case. When researching the best industrial computer enclosure for the job, it is critical to choose an enclosure provider which utilizes off-the-shelf items to customize a solution that meets the users’ needs.

Finding the right enclosure for a computer enclosure project is more extensive than just simply picking out a steel or stainless steel ‘box.’ Enclosures are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials with numerous options for accessories, mounting, connectivity, and climate control. End users and system integrators can simplify the process by choosing a customized solution that ships ready to be used upon delivery.

In order to meet the individual requirements of users, enclosure companies usually stock popular models and valuable accessories. Therefore, the company will be able to “build” an enclosure tailored to the end user’s specific needs more efficiently, than if it was constructed ‘from-scratch.’

Custom Factors to Consider:

Custom Colors

Sometimes the standard color offerings (gray, white, black, or even blue) will not suit the needs of a customer. Custom colors to fit a company’s branding scheme, to match other equipment, or for safety reasons may be required for certain applications. It is necessary for an enclosure company to provide specialized color(s) choices (Pantone or equivalent RAL color) on a small or large scale.

Custom Doors

Custom doors, ranging from dust-free printer access doors to rear extended doors to panel mountable doors for touchscreens, are crucial to the efficiency of the enclosure solution. Finding a means to access the electronics inside the pc enclosure is just as important as protecting the electronics from outside dirt, grease and other harmful contaminants. The enclosure can be rendered useless if there is not an easy way to access printer tickets or the ability to use a touchscreen.

Thermal Management

It goes without saying, but all industrial and manufacturing areas are different. It is beneficial to work with an enclosure specialist that has a thorough understanding of specifying the correct heating or cooling (or both) for a computer enclosure. The ability to tailor an off-the-shelf enclosure solution with a filtered fan system, air conditioner, vortex cooling unit, heat exchanger, or various sizes of heaters – specific to the environment the system will be installed – is crucial.

Ask the pc enclosure provider if they have a worksheet to fill out in order to find the best thermal management solution.

Additional Accessories

Although it may seem like minor details compared to the points already discussed, accessories like a foldable mousepad, sliding shelf brackets, mobile or bolt down pedestals (painted steel or stainless), cable entry glands, and power supplies can make a big difference. Most enclosure company websites will list out complimentary accessories below the product, so that an end user can select what will work best for the application. Enclosure specialists will work with customers to find the most appropriate accessories for the specified installation.

Never let the word “custom” affect a computer enclosure solution decision. Custom can simply mean that the end user can pick & choose how the industrial computer enclosure will look and function in a working environment. Homework is essential. As always, do not let price steer you in the wrong direction. In the end, durability and longevity should always be the most important factors when deciding on a brand new enclosure solution.

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It’s not just a simple steel box.

Enclosure manufacturers always strive to quickly ship the ideal cabinet to satisfy customers’ requests. The value added through flexibility and modifications can be very appealing if integrators work with a supplier that “can do it all.” When searching online for heavy-duty pc enclosures, integrators and project engineers often investigate outsourcing certain components of a computer workplace to help reduce costs and shorten delivery time. When deploying a new workstation or upgrading an existing enclosure system, designers must determine what type of computer enclosure will perform the best, and plan how components and wiring will come together to complete the project.

Best Practices for Enclosure Customization

1. Cutouts

Prior to an enclosure being populated with functional electronics, holes must be cut out and connections must be mounted. It is common for factories and panel shops to knockout or punch holes for a perceived ‘quicker’ turnaround and cost. This may lead to inaccuracy, especially if the factory or panel shop does not have the correct size of punch or bit. Finding an industrial enclosure company that has the skill and ability to modify an enclosure – before shipping – may eliminate hours of in-house measuring and cutting by hand. Enclosure companies make cutouts and custom modifications daily, and do so with great precision. Popular modifications include cable glands, liquid-tight conduit, and cutouts for knobs and push buttons.

2. Wiring

Wiring electrical outlets, fan systems, thermostats, air conditioners, and heaters can be time consuming for the inexperienced. Large jobs may require a completely turnkey solution with necessary wiring and cabling before deploying the computer enclosure in the field. If an integrator is purchasing a sizeable quantity of enclosures and drop shipping them directly to their customer, the enclosure solution must be ‘plug & play’ and ready to use upon delivery. Ask your enclosure manufacturers if outlets, thermal management and other electrical components are installed at the manufacturing facility before shipping. Properly sourced manpower will greatly reduce the final installation time on big projects.

3. Mounting

Internal components such as brackets, DIN rail, mounting track, unistrut, rack channel, and sub panels are vital for mounting switches and controls. If these items are pre-installed prior to delivery from the manufacturer, it will greatly reduce assembly time for your customer and will help them reach a ‘go live’ date. Again, coordination with the enclosure manufacturer will ensure that everything is installed properly and professionally. Manufacturers perform modification tasks regularly and employ proper installation procedures!

When it comes to industrial pc enclosures, many system integrators, engineers and buyers only consider the purchase price and not the entire package. An enclosure company’s reputation and experience can make all the difference! Over time, a great business relationship can be created between the integrator and manufacturer. Leveraging an enclosure manufacturers’ experience can help eliminate some of the ‘heavy lifting’ on behalf of the integrator and end user/customer. It is always best to research solutions on the market and discuss the project with enclosure experts.

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Meet the NEMA 12 IceStation TITAN computer enclosure by ITSENCLOSURES! Measuring at 60-inches high, 30-inches wide, and 27-inches deep, the 14 gauge steel (with 12 gauge doors) TITAN pc enclosure is an all-in-one industrial workstation that will protect your PC and electronics from dust, dirt, grease, contaminants, and light splashing fluids.

Out of the box, the TITAN (IS603027-12) computer enclosure includes:

• 24-inch tempered safety glass viewing window (polycarbonate window also available)
• Adjustable monitor shelf with VESA mount
• Integrated keyboard drawer with ergonomic wrist-rest and sloped work surface
• Key locking latches
• Industrial casters and gasketed split panel for cable entry
• Available in Blue, Gray, Black, or any Custom RAL color of your choice (additional charge)!

These are all very convenient features, but what additional options are available to create the ‘Perfect TITAN’ computer enclosure for a manufacturing environment?

Accessories to Consider:  

1. Thermal Management – A filtered fan system, air conditioner, heat exchanger or vortex cooling unit can be added to the IceStation TITAN. If unsure which system best suits your manufacturing needs, please consult an ITSENCLOSURES representative for a cooling recommendation.
2. Bolt Down Legs – All TITANs come equipped with industrial casters that enable the enclosure to be mobile. The front casters are lockable for positioning the enclosure in its desired location. If the TITAN needs to be anchored into place, bolt down legs can easily replace the casters.
3. Surge Protector/Power Supply – Every TITAN needs power! Adding a 6 outlet surge protector to the inside of the TITAN will enable a user to plug in various electronics, including printers, monitors and computers. Plus, add a simple 10 foot power supply cord to easily reach an outlet.
4. External Shelf – Add a folding or stationary fixed shelf to either side of the TITAN for paperwork, file folders, an extra work space, or any other vital accessory needed to ‘get the job done’ on a daily basis. The shelf’s weight capacity is approximately 75 pounds.
5. Printer Access Door – Installing a printer inside of the TITAN? Consider adding a hinged printer door. The printer access doors will allow easy access to printouts/labels, without having to open the enclosure door. The location of the desired printer door can be installed based on the height and size of the printer.
6. Sliding Shelf Brackets – The TITAN includes a fixed, adjustable shelf for electronics. Consider adding sliding shelf brackets for easy access to the printer, computer or other various electronics that will reside in the TITAN. The sliding shelf is especially helpful when accessing a printer to change media/labels.

We can talk about the benefits of the TITAN all day, but sometimes it is just better to watch an informative product  video.

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- EMAIL: INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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If your company is looking to purchase a heavy-duty enclosure for a computer, monitor, or printer, what questions should be pondered when searching for the right solution? There are various items to consider before placing a purchase order. For example, what is the temperature range of the enclosure’s environment? Will dust and dirt be in abundance? Will a chemical washdown occur daily?

These are just some of the harmful dangers to consider. Computer enclosure protection is a must when it comes to installing electronics in dirty, dusty, and wet locations.

Here are various questions/situations to consider:

1. What NEMA rating is required?
   Will your enclosure be in direct contact with splashing water or oil? Will a large amount of dirt and dust be blowing around the enclosure? Will you ever need to wash the enclosure down with a hose? The NEMA Rating should be one of the first things to consider. A NEMA 12 enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, and splashing fluids. A NEMA 4 enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, hose directed water, and corrosive materials. A NEMA 4X enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, hose directed fluids, and corrosive materials.

2. What will be mounted inside of the enclosure?
   If installing a computer, monitor, and printer, will the computer enclosure be able to fit all three, and still have room for cables and other essential accessories? Will the enclosure be used to protect rack mountable servers? Before looking at enclosures online or in a catalog, it is always pertinent to have the make/model of your PC, monitor, servers, or printer on hand. Obviously, if the electronics simply do not fit, then the enclosure is impractical. Monitor sizes and PC sizes are always changing, so an enclosure that worked at a warehouse five years ago may not work properly now. It is always best to double check the sizes of all electronics that you will be installing inside of the computer enclosure.
3. Where will the enclosure be installed?
   Will the enclosure be installed on a wall, bolted to the floor, or have castors to enable it to roll around a factory floor? Most castors have a locking mechanism, which will make the enclosure both mobile and stationary for added versatility. If the enclosure is a desktop enclosure, then it can simply be situated or bolted to a table or desk or even under a desk. The placement of the computer enclosure is important to consider, because it might live in the same space for many years.
4. What add-on enclosure accessories are necessary?
   Will a 10-foot power supply or a 6-outlet surge protector be needed? Does the enclosure require lockable doors to keep everything secure? Will the enclosure benefit from having a window in the door, or will a solid door be advantageous? If the enclosure is NEMA 4 or NEMA 4X, will it need a waterproof, dust-free/dirt-free cable entry gland, in order to run cables into the enclosure? Will a keyboard tray or dust-tight keyboard drawer be an essential item? Will the enclosure need a hinged printer door? Do you need a waterproof keyboard or mouse? There are many accessories that will improve the overall effectiveness of an computer enclosure.
5. Is thermal management needed?
   If the enclosure is in an indoor environment, will a filtered fan system be necessary for air circulation or an air conditioner to protect against the heat and humidity? If stored outdoors, will winter temperatures require a heater and summer temperatures require an air conditioner? Thermal management should be discussed before the enclosure is installed in the field, because an enclosed peripheral may overheat under certain circumstances and, therefore, cease to work.

When researching a new computer nclosure for your company, it is best to make a comprehensive checklist and guarantee that everything is well-thought-out before deciding on the solution. Doing preliminary homework will cause less stress down the road. Also, make sure that the enclosure will be shipped completely assembled and ready to use upon arrival. This will save time and money!

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