While snooping in the sporting goods section of a local store looking for an enclosure for a project I came across something called a dry box. They come in various sizes and colors and one in particular is sized about right for enclosing an outdoor transmitter.
Do a search on "Watertight Box – Large | Prod ID: 172OP" for a typical example (actually this is the one I saw). It is made from polycarbonate which is sort of a catch-all for a lot of plastics but it appears to be Lexan. UV exposure may be a problem over time but Lexan is successfully used as window material. The plastic is somewhat transparent so the contents can be seen and this might compromise security since electronic goodies are attractive to some thieves.
The hinged lid seals tightly against a gasket and is secured closed with latches. The price is about 2/3 that of a PVC electrical outdoor enclosure of about this size. This might be worth a look if you need something to keep your transmitter safe from the elements.
Neil
Something like one of these may be more appropriate, They look like a Rangemaster encloser to me..
7.87" X 4.72" X 2.95" --- $7.95 with free shippping from Hong Kong
http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Waterproof-Plastic-Project-Box-Enclosure-7-87-X-4-72-X-2-95-L-X-W-X-H-/370961338323
other options: http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=waterproof+enclosure
Another much the same but a little bigger from the UK
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Waterproof-Outdoor-Electrical-Box-Professional-Look-/250862255778
For some odd reason can't seem to find any in the states, but someone must have them
The actual Rangemaster enclosures are from Germany.
Interesting to know. I was just saying it looked like a Rangemaster box, although the ones I listed above are a little smaller.
A few things to keep in mind when making outdoor enclosures:
Do NOT try to make them airtight.
DO make a hole in the bottom at the lowest point to allow any moisture that accumulates (whether leaks or condensation) to drain out.
Clear enclosures not only expose the contents to prying (and possibly thieving) eyes, but they also act like small greenhouses in the sun, collecting and trapping heat inside. Paint the enclosure with a light-colored paint made for painting plastics to make it opaque and reflect light and heat.
You probably don't want a dark or black enclosure either, again for heat issues. See above: paint with a light color.
Avoid making holes in the sides and especially the top of the enclosure. If at all possible, make all wires and cables enter and exit from the bottom. No matter how well you try to seal a hole, especially in the top, it might eventually leak. Gravity is your friend; rain won't enter a hole in the bottom.
When wires will exit the enclosure, especially if they go UP, but even if they only go horizontally, be sure to use drip loops to keep water from collecting on the wire and running down it and into the enclosure. This is especially important if you cannot avoid using side entrance/exit points.
I bought a box from Hammond which seems to be an exact clone of the Rangemaster box, it's the 1590ZGRP123 (8.66x4.72x3.56):
http://www.hammondmfg.com/dwg26.htm
I think I got it from Mouser, a year or so ago, If I remember right, it was under $50. I'm installing a SSTran 5000 in it, but have to wait for spring to install outside (it's -17 F tonight).
by all, especially MrNaturalAZ.
Here are a few more from me. I am using a 6 x 6 gray PVC watertight electrical box for my transmitter and I sealed it but not well enough as water did get in and the amount was more than just condensation. It was resealed more carefully and there has been no problem since. The reason for sealing this is that insects have a habit of entering even the smallest voids and I have cleaned enough spider and ant nests from enclosures and don't want to do this again.
It is a toss-up regarding security of transparent vs. solid color enclosures since some people are attracted to electronics and others are afraid (perceived shock hazard). Personally, I like to see the electronic guts but to each their own.
Neil
Maybe we can get Nuclear Radiation stickers and scare people away.
STANDING WITHIN FIVE-FEET MAY CAUSE ORGAN DAMAGE