View Full Version : DIY Low Cost Benching Station
Hi all,
Ever look at a HSPC benching station, and think to yourself, "I could make one of those!"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/Lubic%20Bench/xoxide_1875_144472135.jpg
Well, I've decided to try and tackle this problem.
Navig's shot at the Do It Yourself Low Cost Benching Station. (http://forum.abit-usa.com/showthread.php?t=128380)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/ChiquitoStation1.jpg
navig
Moto7451
09-22-07, 02:24 AM
Very nice, I like it. I'll be doing something similar once I retire my first attempt at a custom case (the 2 foot tall thing :D).
Twigglish
09-22-07, 02:55 AM
Awesome! I should definitely build myself one one day...
good stuff :p I've thought about it also...
Yeah its a very tempting idea.....bookmarked
This is perfect timing, as I've just recently sat down to start working on something like this. Your skills far surpass mine though, going to keep an eye on this closely for pointers. :)
Hi all,
Ever look at a HSPC benching station, and think to yourself, "I could make one of those!"
Yes, I have. :D
http://home.wmis.net/~jberg/NewPutr3.jpg
Copper pipe soldered together is also sturdier than theirs is (and for $25 in materials, it's far cheaper).
firejunior88
09-24-07, 03:52 PM
Why is it called a bench marking machine? Its just a computer sitting without a case.
It's not "benchmarking station", but benching station.
A benching station is a machine you use to bench test computer hardware as would a review writer or repair person. It's ideal for plugging in a Joe Sixpack hardrive for removing virus' or recovering data.
It's also nice if you happen to change things a lot.
The open design is so that you don't have to balance a flashlight/screwdriver/harddrive/cables all with only 2 hands.
My current system is an open (case-less) design, but made entirely of fiberglass panels I laid in the garage. It's a µATX size,but holds all my hardware compactly.
Some people (like myself) get more fun from playing with the computer instead of on the computer. :D
It's not "benchmarking station", but benching station.
A benching station is a machine you use to bench test computer hardware as would a review writer or repair person. It's ideal for plugging in a Joe Sixpack hardrive for removing virus' or recovering data.
It's also nice if you happen to change things a lot.
My current system is an open (case-less) design, but made entirely of fiberglass panels I laid in the garage. It's a µATX size,but holds all my hardware compactly.
Some people (like myself) get more fun from playing with the computer instead of on the computer. :D
Agreed
Some people (like myself) get more fun from playing with the computer instead of on the computer. :D
Isn't that the damn truth... I should find a cheaper hobby. :)
I think any case (open or not) is a pain in the ass. Anything I mess with goes on my desk or on the shelf above my desk... But I have done things that look what you guys are doing... better than a case I guess.
Its about convenience/access to components vs. structure.
I've run computers on my desktop too. But if you look at it, one accidental elbow and the powersupply falls off the desk....there goes thousands of dollars. Or with the size of heatsinks these days.... Or running watercooling on a desk...
Anyways, the original thread has been updated:
1) Minor Metal Working
2) PCI slot brackets
navig
Sleepy_Steve
09-25-07, 01:02 AM
LOL, this IS my cheap hobby... Well, ok, its my middle hobby in terms of costs.
Model Rockets... cheap
PC's... not that bad
CAR........... wait? why is all my money gone?
Not to thread jack... But this was my version of a cheap benching station. It might still be running, but I may have turned it off a month or two ago when I went back to school and left it in my basement. -- Low cost? how about free w/ a small scrap of wood.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/sleepysteve72/Computer/P1000869.jpg
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b24/sleepysteve72/Computer/P1000859.jpg
I think I made a thread on it... Will edit link in soon.
For those unfamiliar with my work, this is my HI END Expensive Benching Station. (http://forum.abit-usa.com/showthread.php?t=117061)
Trying to strike a balance here between!
I'm shooting for maybe a total cost of $50 on this bench.
squashfx
09-25-07, 01:22 AM
to be (corey)( --> )"quite" honest with you i dont like the design of it because you dont have much acess to your main components.. if you were to use extreme cooling for an example seems to me it would be rather hard to put ln2 into a pot
on the other hand the last one you posted looks awesome and has all the components accessible
nice work!
djrussell
09-25-07, 02:13 PM
you, sir, do some insane work.
firejunior88
09-25-07, 03:52 PM
That makes sense I guess.
Navig... thats insane :p If you were to sell a case like this, how much would it cost? btw: for my easy acess system: big long thick board, screws = :p
Obviously, I can't really talk about cost, this not being the for sale section. If anyone is interested, I can be contacted by pm. If no one claims what I make by the time I'm done, I'll put them for sale on in the classifieds.
navig
Obviously, I can't really talk about cost, this not being the for sale section. If anyone is interested, I can be contacted by pm. If no one claims what I make by the time I'm done, I'll put them for sale on in the classifieds.
navig
Absolutely amazing! I really like the layout! Just one thing, how viable is it to move around? Is it sturdy?
gangaskan
09-26-07, 09:04 AM
hey navig you forgot the delta GFB's in the picture you drew ;)
toddm27
09-26-07, 09:49 AM
some very nice designs :thup:
firejunior88
09-26-07, 10:12 AM
that is really cool.
Aja - It's as sturdy as you want engineer it. As currently engineered with simple screws and 1/2in MDF, you'll probably be able to sit on it. If I were to bolt thru instead of screw, you could probably stand on it, altho the 1/2in MDF might break thru in the middle. If I were to go with 3/4in MDF, you could probably stand and jump on it all day long.
Gangaskan - they do make an appearance in the original thread to approximate the size of a radiator.
gangaskan
09-26-07, 01:16 PM
Gangaskan - they do make an appearance in the original thread to approximate the size of a radiator.
yeah, i saw them after i said that hah! but it would be neat to see them in the paper drawing, but oh well
Obviously, more details at the original thread, but here's the summary.
1. Make some plates:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Lumberrouted.jpg
2. Make some brackets:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Aluminumsquaretubewithbrackets.jpg
3. Make some stations:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Tubularframecomplete.jpg
Looks mahvelous.
Tell me though, what's all the extra room for? Setting meters and other various equipment up, or is that to set a dually rad/fan/pump? (even though the drawing shows air cooling being used).
I originally spec'd 2 versions, one Grande and one Chiquito. The Grande was specifically designed to hold the very large Thermochill PA 120.3 radiator lengthwise (430mm in length). The Chiquito was designed for air cooling or to hold a PA 120.2 rad. However, as the project went on, there didn't seem to be any interest in the smaller version. Anyway, one quick trip to the table saw, and a Grande can be converted into a Chiquito.
navig
Chiquito's....that's what Da Yoopers (band from Michigan's Upper Peninsula) call their ginormous mosquitoes. :D
Nice work though. I've been busy at the table saw for weeks, all the time wishing I had a nice router too.
Rock on! :thup:
The look and feel of plain mdf isn't so appealing. So I've added some trim tape and sealed it with water based polyurethane. Bonus, scratch proof coating.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Finishedsealer.jpg
I laid an unfinished piece of scrap board on top for comparison.
.
Dapper Dan
10-13-07, 04:09 AM
anything navig is amazing ... props
Tyranos
10-13-07, 04:45 PM
ever think about making a quadruple decker for testing 2 systems? :)
Albaholic
10-13-07, 10:48 PM
I must build one of these. I always thought about it. Awesome as always Navig
Alright the Lubic prototype is complete...and sold.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Lubiccomplete1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Lubiccomplete2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Lubiccomplete3.jpg
The buyer wasn't interested in an exhaust fan, so the pci bracket was simplified.
navig
If you haven't been by the original thread, there have been some updates.
Lvcoyote installed his system on the station:
Pics here. (http://forum.abit-usa.com/showpost.php?p=887326&postcount=62)
Plus I started a complete walkthru on the build of my finalized design (station#3):
Starts with post#56. (http://forum.abit-usa.com/showthread.php?t=128380&page=6)
navig
Well, I've completed Station#2 and Station#3, completing this project.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Twins_1.jpg
Station#2 (prototype) is on the left. And the final version (Station#3) is on the right.
Here are some pics of Station#3:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3completebrackets.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3completeheadon.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3completeleft.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3completeback.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3completeright.jpg
Both are officially for sale, I'll be putting an ad in the classifieds when I get to it.
Here are my take home points from this project:
1) Its pretty easy to make a fully functional (in many ways even more functional than the commercial product) open case with cheap junk from local hardware stores.
2) Its quite inexpensive, but does require some work.
3) At this point, if I had all the raw materials on hand, I could probably build Station#4 in about 3 days of dedicated time.
4) Learned a lot about putting aluminum and MDF together. I think for my next project I'll be building another frame from aluminum and MDF based on my testing station, but will also take the time to add back a plastic shell to build a full case.
navig
That turned out great, Navig. Not like I didn't think it would. Makes me wonder if I have the skill to build something like that and it not turn into a heap.
IKIKUINTHENUTZ
11-20-07, 12:13 AM
Nice job on another DIY tech station like always Navig
You certainly make my DIY tech station looks like a peice of crap but then again I did use stuff I found in the garbage :-/
http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/6377/p1014848ey5.jpg
By ikikuinthenutz (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ikikuinthenutz), shot with FE-140,X-725 (http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=FE-140%2CX-725&make=OLYMPUS+IMAGING+CORP) at 2007-09-28
awesome station. i wish i had the skill and time to do this kinda thing.
dipspit
11-20-07, 09:24 PM
Any eta for these things on the classifieds?
Hi dipspit, I do have a thread in the classifieds, feel free to contact me via pm.
I'm bumping this thread up, because, at the request of Thideras, I'm building a new station.
I'm linking this thread here, (http://www.ocforums.com/showthread.php?t=541522) because altho it did cause some confusion, it does show some useful pics. Thideras wanted some extra customizations, which are easily accomplished.
Thideras, this pic is for you. Just finished cutting out the plates, and routing the cable pass thrus, and cutting most of my stock aluminum:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Rawmaterials.jpg
navig
thideras
01-01-08, 03:51 PM
*claps happily*
YAY!!! :D
Looks good already!! :eek:
Put together the posts:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4posts.jpg
And made the first test fit:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4testfit.jpg
navig
JamesXP
01-04-08, 06:44 PM
Navigs got it goin' on.
thideras
01-04-08, 07:07 PM
WHOOOO!!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D
I edged the unfinished mdf sides with some stained wood trime tape:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4edgetrim.jpg
It's too cold tonight to apply the polyurethane, so that'll happen tommorow.
Then I'll need to add the threaded inserts, fabricate the pci bracket (note to self additional free slot), psu bracket, fan brackets, and handles.
navig
JamesXP
01-04-08, 10:23 PM
If i'm honest I don't like that edging tape, It makes it look cheesey IMO, Alu across would be nice.
Actually, the point is, when the things is done, you don't notice much (see the completed pics above)--it just looks like a piece of laminate shelf board. If I left the edges unfinished, it would stick out as a rough blotchy mess. Aluminum trim would definitely look great, and they make edge channel for this purpose--but it would jack the price up by >$20.
Rickster
01-05-08, 09:48 AM
navig, what exactly is the wood trim tape for? Is is going to be left on like that? I noticed from the pictures, the laminate boards get pretty blotchy with the polyurethane (or is it just my eyes). Maybe the laminate boards soak up the polyurethane very unevenly. You should try adding wood conditioner to them, from what I read. It would push up the price though :(
It's a different type of blotchy. If you do a search of mdf and how to finish unfinished edges, you'll see its a bit of a problem with mdf. Since mdf is quite absorbent, if you put anything on the unfinished edges, the grain swells and "stands up". Even if you sand it back down, when you re-apply, the grains stand back up, giving it a rough uneven texture. It looks a little like uneven colored velcro.
You can apply like 10 coats of sandable sealer and eventually get over it--personally I think edge trim tape is the easiest.
Trust me, I've done a fair bit of experimentation. Leaving it unfinished really causes the edges to stick out like a sore thumb. Trying to finish it over with wood filler, wood glue mixtures, tons of primer, oil-based sealers--all jacked up the price and the time to finish.
On the flat finished edges, MDF is a wood product, so it has a certain grain and irregularity. If it looks nice, you call it "character"--if it doesn't you call it "blotchy". I can in fact paint over the whole thing and even achieve a glossy finish if a customer wanted. But that would require about 3 cans of primer and 3 cans of paint, and a hell of a lot of sanding.
navig
Jolly-Swagman
01-05-08, 03:25 PM
Great Job again Navig,
Yeah I have used edging tape on some cupboard doors made for entertainment centre and they come up a treat,
Was that the Iron on type you used, or the glued one
Its was iron-on--the $5 birch roll from Lowe's.
Okay, here's the psu bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4psubracket.jpg
And I know this will make Thideras smile:
Switching panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4switchpanel.jpg
What color LEDs do you want, Thideras? I have red, green, amber, orange, and blue.
JamesXP
01-05-08, 07:45 PM
That's a pretty switching panel.
Boards are sealed, and I constructed the pci rack:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4pcirack.jpg
Here is the general airflow for the upper deck that you specified, make sure it looks good for you:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4fanstoprack.jpg
And the lower deck:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4bottomrack.jpg
navig
thideras
01-07-08, 07:47 AM
BWHAHAHAHAHA!!! Absolutely PERFECT!!!! :D:D:D
Alright, these are the final pics before I break it down for shipment:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4final1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4final2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4final3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4final4.jpg
Ah the beauty of a cheap large case. Anywhere you want to put a fan, just screw it in!
navig
thideras
01-16-08, 01:16 AM
Case arrives today!!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D
Jolly-Swagman
01-16-08, 01:49 AM
Another Fine Masterpiece Navig
thideras
01-17-08, 07:09 PM
I'm home, uploading now :D
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/b0333eb4.jpg
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/2d57122f.jpg
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/6818a197.jpg
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/90bafdce.jpg
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/57bcccb2.jpg
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g121/thideras/b6291477.jpg
Jolly-Swagman
01-18-08, 12:27 PM
Looking good there thideras
Looks great!
How many drives do you have under there?
I think the switching panel turned out nice. Also, I think its the best paint job I've done on these yet, but I really hate painting.
navig
djrussell
01-18-08, 05:31 PM
How many drives do you have under there?
looks like 5 to me. i see 5 sets of mounting screws.
thideras
01-18-08, 05:43 PM
Looks great!
How many drives do you have under there?
I think the switching panel turned out nice. Also, I think its the best paint job I've done on these yet, but I really hate painting.
navigYuppers, 5 drives ;)
3 in a matrix raid (left three), 135gig in raid 0, rest in raid 5. 175mb/sec :beer:
Alright, I've begun a new station. This one's for JamesXP, for his comment earlier on the thread:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/aluminumtrim.jpg
cabose1227
02-03-08, 02:32 AM
I wish my benching station (under construction)looked as good as your'es navig:)
asusradeon
02-03-08, 03:19 AM
looks awesome.. nice job
Alright here's the latest pic of my new version: featuring full trim in aluminum.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Allaluminumtrim.jpg
Has a nice metal-meets-wood effect. Does bring up the costs a fair bit (over 10 feet of aluminum trim on there).
navig
JamesXP
02-05-08, 04:19 PM
Looks better x10
sno.lcn
02-05-08, 06:20 PM
Wow it looks amazing. I've been meaning to put aluminum trim on mine but I haven't had any spare time since school started :-/
Did you get the feet from mcmaster? If so what is the part number?
The feet are part#: 92675K43.
navig
theELVISCERATOR
09-03-08, 07:33 PM
I just built my ghetto version of naviqs bench rig..well its 90 percent done..I gotta setup a decent switch panel, just using some bits ganked out of some tear downs...
Fully functional, I have to decide on the mounts and locations yet and style of mount for the hd and or optical cages..
Harder then it looks..I hate wood......
Built using solid red oak plank, quite rigid...clear coated only...
just took number 8 spot on the p4 board with this old rig..half busted...rofl..
mobo works fine, except for the pci slots....using a ten mb usb adapter sucks!
looks like a mini coffee table !
added top view pic...
temps are low....
i was actually plotting something similar for my bench. since budget is a major concern for me, my plan was to chop up several old cases and weld. perhaps after i make a nice enough mock up, i can truly make a custom setup using the canabalized set as kind of a pattern. i REALLY dig what you made and the possiblities in El Grande are endless, especially for a guy like me who may build/assemble PCs 4-5 times a month for other people. nice work :beer:
Thanks,
The DIY station continues to be on ongoing project (a lot of the development has moved over to the For Sale thread). I'm on my eighteenth build! One of my stations traveled the world and ended up working for the winning team for the Tomshardware overdrive overclocking competition.
Here are some various update pics.
On LN2 and winning the competition. (http://www.ocforums.com/showpost.php?p=5914384&postcount=123)
The ever popular Brollocks bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station6complete4.jpg
The new packing job: Pull out of the box, lift up the PCI bracket and you are ready to install!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station7box.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station7flipup3.jpg
The Extreme cooler mods: Extra tall standoffs and behind-the-socket cutout with fan mount:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station16complete3.jpg
And my latest creation: The triple level station:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station17complete2.jpg
I've made enough that its almost just a design pathway in my mind--so customizations are pretty easy for me build in.
I have been taking a mini-hiatus completing my personal project--watercooled exoframe. But I will be resuming production of new stations shortly.
navig
Jolly-Swagman
02-18-09, 12:48 AM
As Always Looking Great there Navig,
I like the Design of the Tri Level, will be very beneficial to those for WC Benching, with the added room.
kevlar93
03-28-09, 08:17 PM
On average what are the finished dimensions of a benching station?
How hard are they to move once they have parts in them?
The typical sized station is 470mm x 380mm. The height to the top of the posts behind the PCI brackets is about 450mm. The height to the top of the first tier is about 250mm.
I ship with the PCI bracket folded down at the level of the top tier. In such a configuration, I ship in 16" x 20" x 12" boxes. The typical shipping weight is about 13 lbs.
How hard is it to move around?
Not sure what you are asking in this question.
1) Everything is hard mounted, so you don't have to worry about components falling off the station, except maybe for your loose DMMs.
2) There are no sides to protect your components, so random blows and kicks will hit your components. So I wouldn't recommend kicking around a benching station.
3) I can and have added handles. I can make custom plastic shells, if that is desired.
4) If you desire long distance cargo transporting, the point is, you ship the station without components in a box, and you ship all your components in their own boxes. When everything arrives at its destination, the beauty of my station is that you can go from my station in a box to ready for install in 1 minute, and then you can go from components to a running computer in 10.
The stations are sturdy and can be man-handled. For example, I once built a station for a tester who liked to test his heatsinks in both the horizontal and upright positions. So I merely added feet to one side of the station, and you can just reach out and flip it on its side, components installed and all:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/th_Station9tipover.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/?action=view¤t=Station9tipover.flv)
Try that with any other benching station out there!
navig
kevlar93
03-29-09, 05:04 PM
thanks
neonblingbling
05-08-09, 12:47 AM
Question: Does the aluminum trim actually serve a purpose of protecting the MDF, or is it purely looks?
Also, how did you 'countersink' the brackets before you did the aluminum trim?
The trim is mostly for decoration, sort of. It doesn't add strength to the plates. However, it does add threaded mounting points. Threading MDF is an okay proposition, but it strips easily, especially for anything under hi tension or frequent screwing/unscrewing. But threading the aluminum makes for a hi strength permanent threading.
Not sure what you mean by "countersinking" the brackets? Which brackets?
Navig
neonblingbling
05-09-09, 05:19 AM
The only threading in MDF I've done was drilling pilot holes, then screwing a wood/drywall screw in. After a dozen removals, the threads started getting loose... Nothing a drop of wood glue couldn't fix. :p
Also I noticed the corners of the 40lb MDF subwoofer box that I frequently install/uninstall from my car becomes banged up; I was thinking the aluminum trim helps protect against that sort of damage.
The "countersinking" thing was actually in your for sale thread:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station3threadedinserts.jpg
I just cant think of a method that will give that consistent cut... But the more I look at it, it seems you were actually gluing on slices of wood...
Yup, that's wood trim. Now days I use aluminum trim, and I don't countersink them. The bracket goes over the aluminum trim--I thread the hole thru the aluminum and then into the MDF.
DonInKansas
09-13-09, 12:01 PM
Hi Navig:
I signed up for this forum specifically because of this thread, yet it seems I can't PM? These are great looking stations and I was wondering if you were still building them.
Thanks for the interest. I do continue to make stations, I'm currently on #24, and I make them at a rate of about 2 every 4 weeks. The current waitlist is 3 deep.
I use ocforums as a screen, so yes, you need a certain number of posts before accessing my for sale thread in the for sale cases and hardware section. The reason is: I don't look as myself as selling an off the shelf retail product. It is an individual hand built custom one-off piece of equipment. I make sure I know a little bit about whom I'm selling one of these babies to.
I can also be found at the xtremesys forums, the raptor pit forums, or the bit-tech forums--if you have the appropriate number of posts at these forums, feel free to contact me there.
navig
Thought I'd make a post about the latest innovation on my stations here.
A customer posted me this pic, asking if I could replicate it:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24modeltype.jpg
I can't take credit for this design--he attributed it to one Vigo from Team Japan.
The concept is fairly simple. Instead of using brackets to hold the heatsink to the motherboard, you use an external frame to place a press screw to push down onto the top of the heatsink. This same system obviously has a lot of applications for non-standard heatsinks, ie LN2 pots.
The first I built was a sliding frame system to add to the top deck:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24sidebraceunits2.jpg
Then finished it off:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24topdeckgantrymock.jpg
You will notice there are extra standoffs under the cpu socket. This is critical or the pcb is going to bend and break:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completecpusupport.jpg
Next I added the Press Screw block and finished the rest of the station off:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completefront.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completeside.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completeback.jpg
Now installing a heatsink like my Ultra120x is as simple as aliging the press screw, then turning the crank:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completenoplate.jpg
You can use a press down plate if you want to put the pressure thru the heatpipes:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completewithplate.jpg
Heatsink appears to be making good contact:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completegoodseal.jpg
Before and after TIM spreading confirms good contact:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completesocketandsink.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completecontactpattern.jpg
And my imaginary copper pot:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station24completepot.jpg
Let me show you in real time how easy and quick this is!
Align the Press Screw:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/th_Station24gantryaction.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/?action=view¤t=Station24gantryaction.flv)
Then watch me install, swing about, and uninstall a heatsink in under 60 seconds:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/th_Station24fullcycle.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/?action=view¤t=Station24fullcycle.flv)
kevlar93
10-02-09, 04:17 PM
you should add some sort of locking mechanism to that press so that it can not get loose
hokiealumnus
10-03-09, 08:25 PM
Just when you thought the best bench station couldn't get better...it does! Nicely done as always Navig. :)
Switching panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station4switchpanel.jpg
What color LEDs do you want, Thideras? I have red, green, amber, orange, and blue.
If you don't mind my asking, where do you get your momentary switches? Performance-PCs?
Btw, I also wanted to thank you. I built a benching station for myself based off of your design. I used U-channel aluminium for the edges, which was probably overkill. And I went with 3/4" thick MDF. I'll post a thread about it soon.
This is my latest version of the station (#25). It again involves the press screw system, this time with hold-down brackets.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25final1.jpg
You may notice that the side rails for the adjustable press-screw gantry are incorporated into the plates and posts.
The 5.25 drives are hanging.
The radiator is in a new location (more on that later).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25final2.jpg
7 hard drive slots. PSU bracket #1 of 2.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25final3.jpg
Psu slot #2.
Radiator is mounted up here, per the client's request. There are also 2 adjustable feet to stabilize it. Again, the brackets should fit any radiator that I'm aware of. Make sure to use washers for a better fit and to not scratch the radiator's paint job.
I developed 2 types of hold down brackets. The first is my X bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25finalxbracket1.jpg
You may notice that it should fit any sized pot. It is made from laminated pieces of 1/16th aluminum strip, bolted together. Really, it should be machined from solid aluminum, but I haven't got the tools to do that.
The X form factor is nice because it can fit any pot without adjustment, but it doesn't leave a lot of pouring room: however, I did include a funnel holder:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25finalxbracket2.jpg
Hold down bracket #2 I call my "rail style" bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25finalrailbracket1.jpg
It is currently configured for a f1ee pot, which is represented by my wooden blocks. To fit other pots, you would have to drill a couple of new holes.
But it does offer a much larger pour-hole.
Altho, again, you can attach a funnel holder (I might use a metal funnel tho):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25railbracket2_1.jpg
Really, I think, best station I've made yet:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station25final4.jpg
Jolly-Swagman
03-14-10, 04:21 AM
looking great Nav, they just seem to get better and better, each time, well done!
Hi all,
I'm updating this thread because some new versions of my station have been developed.
This was Station#27, sold....to myself. Decided I was going to keep this one, unless someone offers me a price I can't refuse....but note all talks of money must be done on the for sale thread.
Looks like a standard station to start:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27start.jpg
But, now it gets interesting:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27stained.jpg
I used a "Cordova" deep red/brown stain from Sherwin Williams.
This was then topped with several coats of high gloss oil based polyurethane:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27panelspainted.jpg
Staining MDF is a little technique I worked thru on a recent furniture project. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/Shoe%20rack%20project/Insidehouseinuse2.jpg)
.
Hardware was constructed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27postsandtrim.jpg
Here you can see that I've added some extra holes to my my home brew hard drive rack for 2.5" drives:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27bottomplatelayout.jpg
Purple and orange LEDs for Power-on and HDD activity:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27switchpanel.jpg
And here it was completed:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27complete1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27complete2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27complete3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station27complete4.jpg
.
Out of curiosity: Do you screw the HDDs/SSDs in from underneath? Or how are they secured?
There are countersunk holes. The screw head sits in the hole, so it is below the surface (and so won't drag). On the other side, the screw is held in place by a rubber washer, which also absorbs vibrations.
My first build thru of this sort of drive rack. (http://www.overclockers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=601153)
Thank you kindly, Navig. Much appreciated.
Station#28--the SR-2 project
And here is another new version. Somebody wanted a station to accommodate an SR-2 motherboard.
The SR-2 is a giant unique "HTPX" motherboard for dual 1366 sockets:
Official EVGA SR-2 motherboard link. (http://www.evga.com/products/moreInfo.asp?pn=270-WS-W555-A1)
I first started with a general size layout sketch:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/SR-2projecttoplayout.jpg
Then I cut my plates:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28upperplatelayout.jpg
The purple represents a standard ATX motherboard, the red the SR-2.
Next I milled out the cable passthrus:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28passthrus.jpg
Note, that this station will accommodate a standard motherboard or an SR-2.
Paint:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28paint.jpg
Parts:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28posts.jpg
.
I picked a motherboard tray from MountainMods to locate my SR-2 specific standoff holes.
Red is standard ATX.
Green are SR-2 specific:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/SR-2mobotraylabeled.jpg
The purchaser wanted a removable toold-free 3 drive caddy, so he could shutter drives from one station to another.
I started with a Lian Li cage (unfortunately no longer available) mounted to a block with a fan mount:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28harddriveunit1.jpg]
Next I put together a fitted bracket. The bracket is upside-down to show how the mount on the drive caddy will slide into the bracket.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28drivebracket.jpg
And here is a video of the tool free action:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/th_Station28drivecaddydemo.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/?action=view¤t=Station28drivecaddydemo.mp4)
And here was the completed station:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28final7.jpg
Mods seen here:
Front USB/firewire/audio panel.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28final2.jpg
One drive caddy is hard mounted, one is tool-free removable.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28final3.jpg
Dual power supplies, and dual radiator mounts.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20Station/Station28final4.jpg
SR-2 ready!
.
VLC 10
This is my most ambitious and different station yet. I designed my stations to be simple, which this station is not, but I guess you could say my simple station design is the backbone for a more complicated system.
In any case, tRidiot requested a Folding Station, and not as in F@H, but a station that physically folds into a more compact and flat configuration. I had actually thought about this prior to this request, altho along a different line. Due to the general economy, shipping prices by UPS or Fedex have skyrocketed. So I’ve looked at ways to reduce shipping size, yet retain quick setup, such as making the PCI rack removable or foldable.
First we started sending sketches back and forth about design possibilities. MSpainting pics from previous stations, we settled on this possibility:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10planfold.jpg
I’d install piano hinges along the red lines so that the station flat panels could fold in the direction of the blue arrows. I would have to devise some method for folding the legs.
But this design would take a station that is 16 inches in height down to 6!
Also, the offset hinges allow for an intriguing possibilty:
Allowing the powersupply to remain mounted even in the flattened configuration:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10plan3.jpg
There were also some other modifications desired:
1) Paint--going for glossy black with aluminum trim. Lots of work but no problem.
2) Navig DIY 5 hard drive rack.
3) Big under cpu hole
4) Removable caster wheels
5) Brollocks fan bracket
Getting back to the big picture, I first identified several serious design obstacles I needed to overcome.
1) With all these hinged panels, how would I lock the station rigid when in benching mode?
2) When the station is folded flat, how would I lock the station in this configuration?
3) If you mentally fold the picture above, you will quickly realized the 2 front legs must somehow detach from one of the flat panels and fold out of the way.
So I began a series of experiments to see how I could solve these issues.
1) How to lock the station rigid when in benching mod?
I took some aluminum U channel, cut a short length, then milled out ¼” slot using my router table:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10hingelocks1.jpg
Then I made a little test piece with 2 pieces of MDF and little segment of piano hinge.
By using a screw with a ¼” diameter spacer I could make the U channel slide along the edge:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10hingelocks2.jpg
By sliding it past the joint, it locks the 2 panels flat to each other:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10hingelocks3.jpg
Enablingwolf
04-18-12, 04:25 AM
Navig,
May I suggest. Instead of the sliding piece of metal. Use an edge dado and have an inserted piece of hardwood, or scrap instead for the slide. It's the same principle as you already are using. But more internal and elegant.. I would suggest. 3 times as wide as the height. Assuming you are using 5/8" material..You edge dado out 1/4'" make it 3/4" deep. Which would be the size of the slide. You could even integrate a finger pull while cutting the material. A simple J, on one side, should do the trick.
As a long time woodworker. Don't forget dado and rabbit/finger joints are your best buds. They make take a little more time, but save cost in hardware. Plus keep it simple and nifty looking.
For example: You could dado out enough material on each surface of the flats. To allow the legs to fold to the inside of the bases and it all remains remains one flush unit. With the added benefit of slightly lightening the overall weight.
If you are using 5/8 board. It makes it pretty easy. Since if you dado out 1/4" on each surface. You can use milled and rounded over 1/2" x 1 1/2" scrap. You could probably use 1/2" x 1", depending on what material you use.. Instead of the expensive dowel. Rabbet or finger joint the top of the folding support leg, (so it locks in.) Then dowel pin or hinge the bottom. Or use dado and finger joints exclusively.
When folding away, put the support leg(s) in the dado slots when not in use.
Finger joints due to being square and easy to make. Allow you to lock pieces together, in more than one way. Rabbet joints are super strong. So less mechanical fasteners are needed, and of course less hardware cost.
You could use your router/router table or the table saw for the dado and joint cuts really easy.
Hope I am not being overbearing and give you some ideas. :D
This station is already currently in the paint stages...so the design for this one has already been finalized.
I'm still not entirely following you--might need a diagram. But I am always open for suggestions. I've had zero woodworking instruction. I am using 1/2" MDF, tho, which ain't the sturdiest.
2) How to do the front leg supports.
I took some scraps and did some little test pieces, and this was what I came up with:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10frontpostsprototype3.jpg
The legs, represented by the flat board mounted with a friction hinge, have a piece of angle aluminum mounted to its top.
When folded up, this will lock into a receiving piece of aluminum trim, locking the 2 together, pretty stable without even any fasteners:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10frontpostsprototype2.jpg
3) The second issue I mentioned in the previous post:
When the station is folded flat, how would I lock the station in this configuration?
I figured I would have to figure this one out later, using whatever available space would be there in the folded flat configuration (in other words, I wuldn’t smart enuff to picture clearances in my head, so hope for teh best...).
So, enough with the tinkering with scraps....
Enablingwolf
04-19-12, 02:43 AM
I'm still not entirely following you--might need a diagram. But I am always open for suggestions. I've had zero woodworking instruction. I am using 1/2" MDF, tho, which ain't the sturdiest.Firstly, Congrats on Blue. Well deserved!!
Let me grab a copy of google sketch and do a few things. First I have to learn how to use and manipulate it. Then I can sketch up some concepts for you.
It shouldn't take to long for me to come up with something.
Edit:
I got some of the concepts I was giving. If you need me to expand on them. I would happy to share more.
On the back side of the model. You can see the dado. Since I really do not know how you anticipate going there. I left that really basic in concept. Yer a smart feller, so it should light that bulb I assume. If not, I can expand further.
The lock system. Is very basic. A sliding piece of wood. Use a cover to keep it in place. You inset one side that has the cover. To accommodate it. The other side is left to remain flush. it allows for the finger pull also, leaving it without a cover. Just make sure. that the slide can fully retract. Allowing the piece to fold as you would like. So accommodate the dimensions on that. For added locking strength. You could do both sides with the simple lock system..
I would like to mention. Piano hinges are much nicer than standard long hinges. Since if you install them inset. They pretty much go flush and get really nice looking, plus they are stronger with less weight.. Much more elegant IMO. (Keep in mind. There is two rabbet depths. One for the screw plating, one for the hinge itself.)
I included the installed concept of one in the sketch. You can easily go all the way across with one. Though it may interfere with the locking system.
As for your shelving/risers/supports/or angled butting.. I also included a tried and true method for a strong attachment. It would reduce the need for brackets. Plus make it look nicer. Just make sure the material passes all the way through. For a nice snug, pretty butting.
The one piece is not to scale. I made it much smaller in scale, so the image was not huge in size. matter of fact. The whole thing is not to scale.
:)
I get it, and looks like a solid design. I'm not a 100% certain that 1/2" or even 5/8" thick MDF is sturdy enough to accomodate a dado groove with a shuttle sliding inside of it. Might try some future investigations, altho I'm thinking this station is probably going to be a one-off.
First, I cut my back panel which is really the backbone of my VLC stations:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10backpanel.jpg
Then I cut the top and bottom flat panels, and started with some piano hinge on the top panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10toppanelhinged.jpg
Then I tested the piano hinge and side locking brackets:
Locked:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10toppanelhinged2.jpg
Unlocked and folded:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10toppanelhinged3.jpg
Next I made my front "legs". Which honestly aren't actually legs but a single solid piece cut from 3/4" MDF.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10frontposts2.jpg
Also added the hinges and the locking system for the legs.
And here's a video of the system in action:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/th_MVI_5231.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/?action=view¤t=MVI_5231.mp4)
xxgokouxx
05-03-12, 08:26 AM
And so i've finally started on my project Navig, as I talked to you in PM.... I've found metal to be too expensive and a PITA, so i've done a similar wood setup, except all my 4 legs are the same size.... I figure if needed, i'd expand onto another shelf as this desktop setup is meant to mount on the wall next to my HDTV. I'm currently using a 32in TV right now but i'm waiting to see whether i'm going 42in-50in in the future as I'm shopping for a TV right now lol (bigger sides accomodate for different mounting locations). If it's okay, i'll post a finalized picture here :)
P.S. I've already made 3-4 mistakes along the way of building the shelf LOL..... i just didn't have the tools or help (like table saw or anyone to hold the boards together for me to start the process. Here are MY pictures (i've included it in my own thread too). I've also included pics of my old setup (in a cheap computer case, for comparison).
http://img708.imageshack.us/i/20120502002705.jpg/
http://img844.imageshack.us/i/20120502002714.jpg/
http://img441.imageshack.us/i/20120502002731.jpg/
http://img84.imageshack.us/i/20120502002741.jpg/
http://img841.imageshack.us/i/20120502002751.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/20120502002757.jpg/
http://img40.imageshack.us/i/20120502002804.jpg/]
http://img189.imageshack.us/i/20120503124553.jpg/
http://img835.imageshack.us/i/20120503140041.jpg/
http://img502.imageshack.us/i/20120503140116.jpg/
http://img406.imageshack.us/i/20120503140126.jpg/
http://img43.imageshack.us/i/20120503140330.jpg/
http://img855.imageshack.us/i/20120503140334.jpg/
Good job--I'll follow your thread.
Next I added the piano hinge to the bottom panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10upclosemechanism.jpg
And a latch to keep it locked in the up position.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10uplocked.jpg
Video (click):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/th_Uplockingmechanism.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/?action=view¤t=Uplockingmechanism.mp4)
And there you have it--Station that was something like 14 inches in height can flatten out to 6 inches.
On to some details:
tridiot wanted some removable caster wheels.
I embeded some T nuts into the feet:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10wheelmounts.jpg
Caster wheels can screw on:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10wheels.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10wheelsupright.jpg
Ready to roll.
Constructed my hard drive rack.
We went with 5 drives, and my DIY rack--which is great as without any hard drives, the unit is virtually flat.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10driverack.jpg
Details about the general construction of my DIY hard drive rack can be found at its own thread:
http://www.overclockers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=601153
Constructed the switch panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10switchpanel.jpg
It will be mounted here, to accommodate for the folding mechanism:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10Swtichpanelinstalled.jpg
Dome power-on switch, flat reset switch, LEDs for power-on and HDD activity, and a CMOS reset.
Added the power supply bracket and aluminum trim.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10prepaint4.jpg
And here were my final pictures pre-paint:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10prepaint2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10prepaint6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10prepaint7.jpg
First rule of paint: Test your paint.
My plan was: 3-4 coats ebony stain (6 hours dry between). 3-4 coats of glossy clear oil based polyurethane with 220 grit sanding in between. All applied with foam brushes.
My test sample--black n glossy:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10painttest.jpg
Parts were painted on a rack:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10paint2.jpg
The large flat panels lagged behind as I had to do one side at a time:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10paint1.jpg
I’ve found that for large panels, it is a little difficult to hang them vertically and paint them with a brush. The paint tends to develop runs, especially at contours. Unless you use spray, but I haven’t that equipment.
So I paint one side, then let it fully dry. Then I mask tape over-drip areas, and paint the other side.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10paint3.jpg
On to assembly:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10almostfinishedwithpaint.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10bottomplatemounted.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10bottomplaterigged.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedswitchpanel.jpg
And my final pics:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfront.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedright.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedright2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedback.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedleft.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedbottom2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedcasters.jpg
And pictures of the mechanisms:
From a full opened station, the first step is to release the hinge lock slides:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedslidelocks2.jpg
Next, you undo the locking thumbscrew:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfoldingscrew2.jpg
Then disengage the front legs from their bracket, folding them down:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10disengagefrontfeet.jpg
And hinge up the top panel:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfoldup.jpg
And hinge up the bottom panel, locking the panels up with the latch:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfoldup2.jpg
The folded station can stand up:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfoldup3.jpg
Or flat:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/VLC10finishedfoldup4.jpg
This flattened station takes an open station from a height of about 16 inches down to 6 inches. Plus you can leave your power supply onboard, and one 5.25 bay device.
And some videos of the action:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/th_VLC10Foldingaction.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/?action=view¤t=VLC10Foldingaction.mp4)
(Click to Play)
Fold’er up, fold’er down.
And if you’re in a hurry and not worrying about moving the station much, you can skip all the locking mechanisms as the station is pretty sturdy without any positive locks. See how quick it would be to go from packed in the trunk of your car to benching:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/th_VLC10Hurrytobench.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v363/navig/DIY%20VLC%20Station/?action=view¤t=VLC10Hurrytobench.mp4)
And that’s it--hope tRidiot likes it. It’s definitely one of the most unique benching stations out there.
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