Ikelite costs

[Anonymous]

Well, now I know why water detectors cost so dang much. I contacted Ikelite for prices on the 5710 case (about the size of a Tesoro, maybe what Eric is using) and the 2-pin connectors. Connectors are $15 each (bulkhead and cable) for a total of $30. OK, that hurts but is tolerable.
The case is $150. That is simply out of the range of almost any hobbyist. Anyone got another suggestion?
I did stop by a local dive store, they had these really cute waterproof boxes in various sizes. Claimed to be tested to 100 feet, which is plenty good. Also comes in colors, including hot pink. Prices were $15 to $25. My only concerns are durability and accidentally pulling the latches underwater. Might make good temporary experimental boxes, though.
- Carl

 

[Anonymous]

I think these are what I saw at the dive shop. Also look at the 2500 and 3500 models which are larger.

 

[Anonymous]

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[Anonymous]

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[Anonymous]

Hi Carl,
I have a couple of those cases that I am playing with. The size that seems best is 6 1/2 x 3 7/8 x 3 1/4in deep. This has good size flat surfaces top and bottom, and on the side opposite the latches, for connectors, cable glands and controls. Plenty of internal room for electronics and batteries. The latches seem to be very positive locking and I think it is very unlikely that they would come undone accidentally. One thing that I found a nuisance is the internal foam lining which needs to be removed, and they use a very tenacious adhesive.
Ikelite cases are expensive but extremely strong and reliable. Never had a leak with the ones I use for the Aquastar. The connectors too, are bulky but rarely give any trouble.
Eric.

 

[Anonymous]

Hey Carl,
I like them. I've been wanting to put my Lobo LST into a waterproof case and this looks like a reasonably priced way to go. What about some reasonably priced controls to go with these cases?
Regards, RD

 

[Anonymous]

Carl,
I use the Otter Box 8000 and 9000 with the cleat tops. The cheapest place to buy them is cases4less. Go to: http://www.cases4less.com/detail_otter_box_9000.html

 

[Anonymous]

The last message should have read "With clear tops" Sorry about the typo, Dave. * * *

 

[Anonymous]

Hi All:
On a related subject, here's a question for those of you that have actually used a PI detector. (I never have-only used IB discriminators)
Do you think it's necessary to be able to adjust the controls underwater? Or could you set the controls on shore, close up and lock the case, and go at it?
Though Ikelite has the glands and shafts available to make it possible to make adjustments underwater, is it worth the expense and risk of leaks?
Thanks
BG

 

[Anonymous]

That is exactly what I did with my Goldquest SS. I have everything inside a waterproof case. I havn't been underwater with it but in the surf once I set the controls I usually won't have to touch them again until I turn the unit off. HH

 

[Anonymous]

Bob,
I take it you had to make two penetrations into the case to allow for coil cable and headphone lead? Do any of these cases have holes provided for suitable cable glands?
Regards
Tony
(I have the Goldquest SS as well)

 

[Anonymous]

Yes you are right I did have to make 2 holes. The case is Lexan, it is very tough and very hard to crack. Wasn't any problem at all drilling the holes. I don't know of any cases with pre drilled holes. The case is under 20 bucks so even if you ruined it, it's no big deal.

 

[Anonymous]

Bob,
Followed your E-mails back, but couldn't find out what type of case you purchased.
Can you give me the details of the case (dimensions, manufacturer,etc).
Did you use cable glands and what size holes did you drill?
Appreciate the response
Tony.