Over the past period, I’ve been focusing on the development of a 1×2 audio switcher. After continuous design, adjustments, fabrication, and improvements, the circuit board is now basically complete. Although I know there are still many areas that could be further optimized and refined, the more important task for the overall project at this stage is to start working on the design and fabrication of the enclosure.

Initially, I envisioned crafting a sleek enclosure out of 6061 aluminum alloy — sturdy, beautiful, and full of texture. However, considering that the current circuit and overall structure are not yet finalized and there may still be some fine-tuning and layout adjustments in the future, it’s obviously unwise to invest in the high cost of aluminum machining at this point. Therefore, after weighing functionality, flexibility, and cost, I decided to adopt a simpler, more adaptable, and lower-cost solution.
Specifically, I chose to use four 80mm-long copper standoffs as the main framework, with simple panels designed for the front and back, which will be produced through 3D printing. This structure is not only easy to manufacture and assemble but also keeps modification costs low if adjustments are needed later. More importantly, this modular design allows me to focus more on the internal functionality without being constrained by the complexity of the external housing.

Just like the circuit design, I insist on using free and open-source software tools for the enclosure and parts design as well. For the circuit board, I used KiCAD — an excellent and widely praised open-source EDA software. For the parts and enclosure design, I chose FreeCAD — another free and powerful tool that fully meets my current needs.
Today, I’ve completed the initial assembly structure in FreeCAD and designed the two panels according to my vision. However, since I don’t have a 3D printer at hand, I’ll have to wait until next week to have the panels printed by a professional 3D printing service.
To be honest, I’m already a bit impatient. I’m really looking forward to seeing this little device fully assembled — plugging it into my audio system and hearing the first piece of music playing through it. That will definitely be an exciting and satisfying moment.