Abstract: The embodiments provide a rugged enclosure for an external drive. The enclosure is configured to provide shock protection and protect the external drive from contaminants. The enclosure may be provided with a set of cushions and spacers to accommodate different sizes and types of external drives. In addition, the enclosure may comprise a port that allows for use of the external drive while enclosed. Furthermore, the enclosure may comprise a retaining feature like a loop or lanyard that allows the enclosure to be easily transported and secured.

Abstract: Systems and manufacturing methods are disclosed herein that can beneficially reduce manufacturing cost while providing size efficient enclosures to house hard drives or other types of storage drives. An enclosure system can be used for separately housing one of two storage devices having different thicknesses. A first portion can be interchangeable with both storage devices. Second and third portions can each have a thickness to size efficiently accommodate the thickness of one storage device. Each of the second and third portions has an engagement surface to engage the first portion forming an enclosure. Either the first portion, or both second and third portions can comprise an opening or a shock mounting element. When the opening or the shock mounting element are on both the second and third portions, the opening or the shock mounting element is collectively identically spaced from the engagement surface on both the second and third portions.