OKW has introduced a new machining service for LED backlighting as part of its enclosure customization options. This service addresses ingress protection challenges of fitting LEDs and light pipes to a housing’s front panel.
The backlighting solution enables designers to add visual indicators to their devices. Numbers and letters appear only during illumination and remain invisible when LEDs are off. This functionality is achieved through precision machining of small indentations into the underside of a panel, allowing light from LEDs to pass through while maintaining the enclosure’s designated IP rating.
The technique works by mounting LEDs below the panel surface according to customer specifications. The machined indentations are calibrated to a thickness that permits light transmission through the plastic while remaining visually undetectable when not illuminated.
This backlighting approach is compatible with various OKW enclosures, including the SMART-PANEL wall-mount housing designed for building control systems, smart homes, IoT/IIoT applications, measuring equipment, healthcare devices, laboratory instruments, and security technology.
The LED backlighting service complements OKW’s existing modification capabilities, which include CNC machining, printing, laser marking, decor foils, RFI/EMI shielding, and accessory installation. Additional options, such as specialized lacquering and alternative materials, are also available.
For more information about enclosure backlighting, visit the OKW website: https://www.okwenclosures.com/en/news/blog/BLG2503-enclosures-with-led-backlighting.htm
Filed Under: Connector Tips