[Samuel]His first attempt at creating a DIY hardware authentication token was a great success, but he soon realized that there were a few different problems to solve for a device for everyday carrying and use, compared to a PCB that sits and works on a workbench. This led to TurtleAuth 2.1, redesigned for everyday use and lucky for all of us, he detailed all the challenges and solutions he faced.
When we cover the original TurtleAuth DIY security token, everything works fine. However, there were some problems with the PCB layout that became apparent after one year or more of daily use. An enclosure instead of 3D printing and say it’s done, [Samuel] Decided to try a different idea and create a perimeter from PCB layers
The three-tiered PCB seals and protects the sandwich components, as well as provides a nice large touch-sensitive pad on top, enclosed by a status LED. Space was a real constraint, and a PCB needed to be redesigned as well as move to 0402 size components, but in the end he made it work. Being able to see LEDs when no material is exposed? There is no problem; [Samuel] Fill the holes in the top of the status LED with some hot glue, creating a cheap, effective, and highly durable diffuser that also seals the interiors.
Creating a perimeter from PCB material can really hit the spot, and there is no need to reinvent the wheel while doing it. Our own [Voja Antonic] It highlights everything you need to know about how to create functional and beautiful enclosures.