Snap-in post
- Fast assembly without tools
- Barb flex fatigue if the board is removed often
- Hole size tolerance drives retention
Molded part guide: standoffs
Injection Molded Standoffs
Standoffs set the gap between a PCB and a cover or chassis. They can snap into the board, snap into the shell, or receive a screw from below. If the posts are not the same height after molding, the board rocks and connectors misalign.
PCB mount
Parallel posts matter more than post diameter
Molded standoffs are often integrated into an enclosure bottom or a separate pillar plate. Each post must match the PCB hole pattern and hold the board at a fixed height for connectors, displays, or battery clearance.
Snap standoffs use a flexible barb that passes through a board hole and locks. Screw standoffs use a boss with a metal insert or self-tapping thread. Mixed patterns on one board need a clear assembly sequence.
Warp on the mounting plate telegraphs into standoff height variation. Stiffen the plate with webs, balance fill symmetrically, and define which face is datum for the board.
Retention
Snap post or screw-mount standoff
Screw standoff
- Service access with a screwdriver
- Metal insert or self-tap thread at each post
- Torque must not crack thin post walls
Integration
Standoffs molded into the enclosure floor
- Posts should tie to the floor with gussets, not stick up as isolated cones
- Keep weld lines away from barb flex zones
- Define board datum relative to connector cutouts on the shell
- Metal inserts at high-load posts reduce post stress
Drawing
Standoff quote inputs
PCB drawing with hole diameters and pattern
Required board height and keep-out above and below
Snap or screw at each post location
Components that must align to shell features
Service cycles if snaps must release
Whether standoffs are on the shell or a separate plate
Keep reading
Related guides
Electronic enclosures
Board datums in the shell.
Electronic enclosuresSpacers
Tubular distance on bolts.
SpacersSnap fit clips
Barb flex design.
Snap fit clipsBosses
Screw posts.
BossesInsert molding
Threaded inserts in posts.
Insert moldingTolerance stack up
Board height stack.
Tolerance stack upEnclosures
Shell closure context.
EnclosuresWarpage
Plate warp lifts posts unevenly.
WarpageMolded parts hub
Every part-type guide.
Molded parts hubFAQ
Questions about molded standoffs
Can standoffs be a separate plate snapped into the shell?
Yes. Send both parts and the assembly sequence so retention and height stack are reviewed together.
Our connector does not mate after molding.
Measure standoff height and pattern relative to the shell datum. Warp or shrink on the floor often shows up as connector offset before hole pattern error.
Are metal threaded standoffs available molded in?
Insert molding can capture metal standoffs. Send insert drawings and torque requirements.
Do you assemble the PCB?
No. NetProto molds plastic parts. Board installation stays with your assembly line.
Next step
Quote standoffs with PCB and shell CAD
Upload enclosure and board data with target height. DFM feedback covers post warp, snaps, and boss torque.