Can someone with the uConsole in hand provide measurements for the machine screws used to fasten the outer parts together?
I’m thinking of replacing the original ones with ultra low profile flat topped hex ones like in the original renders, since it seems that the current production ones are a bit bigger and rounded. I really think it would make a big difference to the overall looks of the already good looking device.
We can also talk about possible replacement screws and where to get them in this thread.
The screws used really aren’t that bad. The bezel around the LCD is less than 0.5mm lower. and they are about the same height as the bezel around the keyboard.
I don’t have my uConsole yet, but I asked in the Discord. We’ll see if anyone replies. I’ve got a caliper, but no screws to measure. If I were to guess, I’d say they look to be M5 screws with ~5mm of screw depth and an 8-12mm wide head? Some sort of modified (flattened) button head styling.
You’ll want to look for “flat head” or “wafer head” for low profile screws. They’re easy enough to find, we just need someone with a caliper or ruler to take some measurements.
Head diameter is 8.5mm. Thickness of just the head is 1.8mm. Length of total screw is 5.7mm so the length of the thread is about 3.9mm. Diameter of the thread is 4mm so it would be an M4.
So we’re most likely looking for 4mm long M4 wafer head screws with a head diameter of no more than 8.5mm. So far the closest I’ve found on AliExpress are these. They only have them in silver, though. I’ve not yet found a supplier on Ali that has the 4mm M4 wafer heads in black. They all seem to start at 5mm long.
I agree, they look good from the photos I’ve seen! Certainly not trying to complain, here.
That said, I do like to “accessorize” my devices. Small touches, like screw heads, are a perfect way to personalize the fit-and-finish aesthetics!
I’m actually thinking I might even go with some chrome, chunky, extra-tall cap-head screws on the four front corners, so I can set it face-down with plenty of extra clearance.
Lots of options for accessorize. I am rather happy with the black. Will upgrade the processor from the R-01 unit. Likely a CM4 with eMMC. Going back to a Raspberry Pi OS will help me a bunch, I have so many of them doing various things. Printing a cover for it at the moment, won’t be done until tomorrow. Unless I botched something, it should look good.
Decent looking but expensive replacements might be more like these screws from Misumi, I’m planning on ordering a couple (5mm, 8mm and 10mm long) to see how they stack up to what was shipped.
It’d also be nice to have a little more screw to mount a spacer for wires, expansions, etc. I was able to run an M4x8 all the way into the rear corners, so it’s got plenty of room.
I was able to run an M4x8 all the way into the rear corners
So you’re saying there’s room for longer screws? Interesting! I can’t help but wonder how much room there is on the front corners. If I didn’t have to constrain myself to a 4mm screw depth I’d have a much easier time finding inexpensive replacement screws. I ordered the silver ones I’d linked to on Ali (for less than a dollar shipped), but I still haven’t been able to find any in black at 4mm depth.
The corners are threaded holes the whole way through, I popped off both sides and ran an M4x20 through with just enough to put a nut on the other end. No idea why I didn’t think to check that the other day.
The middle holes on the front are a different story though, they’re not all the way through. Those are only about 8-9mm deep, at least according to my pre-coffee measurements.
I have replaced the screws of stainless steel steady on the side, not only aesthetic issues, but mainly to perfectly match the sling rope. my wristband now only occupies one screw, and both screws need to be used if you replace it with a strap.
