Assembly Guide for the Raspberry Pi M.2 HAT+ Layer Case

By The Pi HutMay 20, 20240 comments

This guide will show you how to assemble the Layer Case for Raspberry Pi M.2 HAT+ & Active Cooler. Assembly is straight-forward and the only tool you'll need is a small cross-head screwdriver.

Note: The fixings and standoffs used in this product are made from nylon. Do not over-tighten them. Finger-tight is all you need, and avoids damaging the threads.

Parts check

You will need the contents of the case bag (two Perspex panels, the fixings and rubber feet), your Raspberry Pi 5, Raspberry Pi M.2 HAT+ (with NVMe device already fitted) and (if you're using one) your Raspberry Pi Active Cooler.

The fixings include four smaller screws and four larger screws, as well as four larger male/female standoffs and four smaller ones. Separate these as we'll be telling you where to use each size later on.

Assembly Steps

Step 1 - We first need to remove the protective film from both sides of the plastic parts.

Use your fingernail (not a tool - they scratch!) to start at one corner and try not to touch the clean faces from this point onwards:

Step 2 - Take the lower Perspex panel and fit the four smaller male-female standoffs using the four smaller screws fed from underneath - like this:

Step 3 - Fit your Raspberry Pi 5 on to the standoffs. The threads should pop through each of the four corner holes. It's a good idea to add the HAT's riser header to your Pi at this stage too. If you're using an Active Cooler, you'll want this fitted as well:

Step 4 - Now screw the four female/female standoffs on to the lower standoff threads, securing your Raspberry Pi in place:

Step 5 - Now add your M.2 HAT+ (remember, your Pi needs the HAT's riser header fitted first) and then secure this by screwing the longer male/female standoffs down through the HAT and into the standoffs below: