Mechanical specifications and mounting needs: Mounting the RIM 801D
Integrator’s Guide – RIM 801D OEM Radio Modem
8
Mounting the RIM 801D
The RIM 801D OEM radio modem may be securely fastened using a variety
of methods. When deciding on a mounting option, the most important
consideration is the operating environment. Such factors as extreme
temperature or heavy vibration may dictate the need for a special mounting
solution.
Due to the RIM 801D’s small size and low weight, Research In Motion
recommends the use of an industrial adhesive when attaching the radio
modem to the host device. This method of mounting is preferable to bolts,
because of its ease of use in manufacturing and its resistance to loosening.
An effective solution is to adhere the radio modem to the inside surface of
your product’s casing.
The designer should select an adhesive based on its suitability to the
mounting surface of the radio modem as well as the casing. The outer casing
of the RIM 801D is pre-tinned steel or stainless steel, with a thickness of
0.010” (0.25 mm).
The following information is presented as a guide, but applications can vary
considerably. Please make sure that the mounting method you choose is
suitable for your particular application.
Permanent adhesive
3M manufactures VHB, a permanent industrial adhesive with excellent
long-term holding power. The peel adhesion and tensile holding power of
VHB tapes are extremely high, making this a suitable solution when the
radio will not need to be removed.
Testing by Research In Motion has shown that a RIM 801D radio modem,
bonded to a suitable surface with VHB, should never come loose even when
subject to heavy vibration. Although the use of an adhesive might seem
inadequate or insufficient, it should be considered that this particular
adhesive is extremely strong — for example, VHB tapes replace rivets in
fastening side panels to the frames of ambulances. VHB adheres best to
metal, and can also be used on finished wood, paper, cardboard, glass,
painted concrete, and most plastics, with various ratings in bond strength.
VHB will not bond to polyethylene or polypropylene plastics, leather, or
fabric.
