Custom Computer desk with built-in hardware

REConnect

REConnect

REConnect

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Hi there,

I am starting a thread about a project of which would involve the integration of hardware into a custom built desk, which I am planning.

I would mainly appreciate help on material choices and how the devices could retain use.

Currently my ideas are based on these items;

Surface Type
Mouse, Keyboard & Gaming Surface
Hot Switch Shared Network Drives
USB Extensions
Cable Management

The concept of designing a custom desk is for ergonomic purposes to create a setup based around useful functionality which a standard desk just does not include.

Possible Size of Desk: 1500mm x 650mm (Note, these are estimated; they can be extended or shortened).

1. Surface Type
I would like to line the desk, fully, in a formula much like the rubber or soft plastic which coats standard gaming mice in today's market, for example; the TtEsports Black Element or the older Razer Naga mouse. I am aware that these are not "new" but they still host the same material in question. I have found products such as the "Plastidip" range, but I am unsure of the finish it would provide.

2. Mouse, Keyboard & Gaming Surface
I have planned to engrave a 5mm area into the desk which would be occupied by a couple of the large or extended (920mm x 294mm) Razer Goliathus pads (one in front of the other), leaving a flat desk surface where the pads could not slide or move. This will allow the mouse and keyboard to have more of a lower profile look, also removing stress from the wrist.

3. Hot Switch Shared Network Drives
I would like to use a network sharing device which is already setup, such as a D-Link Share Center Plus etc. I would like this to be mounted somewhere which would help towards convenience of hot switching drives, but I want the device itself to be hidden, not cluttering the desk surface.

4. USB Extensions
Using a powered USB extension which plugs into the PC and mains I hope to mount the device into the desk, cutting a vertical slot into the surface, of which would fit perfectly allowing flash devices to be plugged in easily. I will also use a shutter lid for this device, therefore sticking on the lines anti surface clutter aspects, where it is also convenient as it will be sunk into the desk and not displayed.

5. Cable Management
This subject will always be at the top of any enthusiasts list, although number 5 here ;), as there are several means of keeping cables tidy and free from being cluttered or tangled. Since I want to keep my case in a cabinet under the desk (preferably the right side) would it be possible to run the cables directly through an accessible cavity built under the desk surface at the back without causing hazard?

I would love help and ideas on any of the subjects raised to be commented on this thread, as I am going to be building this desk very soon.

-Note, I will be building this from scratch, I will not be customizing a current desk. This allows me to extract any ideas from you with choice of material etc! :)

The desk will support 2 or 3 27" monitors which is undecided yet.

ANY IDEAS OF WHICH I HAVE NOT INCLUDED ARE WELCOMED!

Thanks,

REConnect (Will).
 
As far as USB extensions go there's a few USB header plates appearing now. You run the cable from the header into the hub via a normal plug, bury the hub somewhere out of sight and have just the plug to the system to "worry" about.

Mount the USB header plates wherever you like (holes in desk).
 
Liking the ideas. You could try rubber sheet for the desk surface. May be sensible to try a couple of samples first. Incidentally, I went for blackboard vinyl on mine - came out very nicely. Maybe worth a try. Fwiw, here's a pic of my customised desk which has been skinned with it:



For cable management, or concealing the cables, a vanity board would help with this. I've managed to conceal and organize my cables that way.

Will be trying plastidip myself at some point.

Looking forward to seeing this develop.

Edit: you could also use neutrik USB adapters to keep things tidy.
 
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Those neutrik adapters are a bit.... big.

It you google for "USB 3 extension with screw" you'll probably find something suitable.

Get an old PCI header plate, trim it down and drill some screw holes. Will be nice and tidy that way.
 
Loving the replies guys, thanks for the input; I'll keep you all updated on how it goes anyway as I'll probably post pic's here. Those USB header plates are looking the business I'll find a way of making them fit and look decent, by either custom building one directly into the fabric and face plate of the desk or by doing the trimming as described above. I have the facilities to do fine metal work here so detail wont be a problem.

I really like the simplicity of your setup btw thereisonlyone, really cool and only one question from me - is that surface rubbery and sort of cushioned?

A vanity board was the same sort if idea of which I had, besides I wanted to make it more of a cupboard rather than a board, but again, the simplicity of it intrigues me!

Blackboard vinyl seems to be a good option right now, but I'll buy a sample plastidip and give it a try just to show you what the finish is like!
 
Thanks REConnect. Re the surface, it's hard and has a texture to it. Definitely worth getting a sample from Ebay if you're still interested.

Here's a closeup from my arcade cabinet control panel which may give you a better idea:



Look forward to your view on the Plastidip :)
 
Now thinking about it, after seeing this surface in more detail ^ the vinyl does have a very nice finish with its grain like affect. Even with a hard surface I think this may be a good investment, as I stated the mouse pads would be embedded anyway hence removing the need for much rubber and cushion in the surface!

These posts have really got me thinking now, so if you could drop a link to the seller of that vinyl it would be great!

Again, I'm still going to try the Plastidip, just to compare;)
 
VENTS - Both left and right sides of the desk will host two air vents of which will be funneled under the desk on the left and into the case bay on the right.

CABLES - There are cable tidy's for both monitors, left and right, which drop directly into the cable management system under the surface.

COOLING - There are 4 x 120mm fans behind the vents at the back of the case bay which will extract hot air.

ACCESSORIES - The box held to the right side of the surface will hold a 12port usb hub and the box on the left shows where a hot switch network drive could be held.

I could either use perspects glass or black mesh for the left and right vents and the tower bay display window.

Thanks for looking and please comment on how things could be changed and/or modified to improve the design!

- Note, I am aware that the desk will have to be designed differently to allow for joining etc.
 
mrbell1984 said:
What about building the computer inside the desk? Under the monitors with a see through top area ?
Click to expand...

I did think about pursuing that idea, but I am one for constantly upgrading my PC, as well as cleaning it and moving it, for example; to a friends house! ;)

I also don't want a thick surface on the desk, I'd prefer a low profile finish :p
 
REConnect said:
I did think about pursuing that idea, but I am one for constantly upgrading my PC, as well as cleaning it and moving it, for example; to a friends house! ;)

I also don't want a thick surface on the desk, I'd prefer a low profile finish :p
Click to expand...

stop being a big girl, break out the hammer and jigsaw and just go for it.

That's what I did and I didn't come out sooooo bad (for now at least) lol

My desk
 
I'm not sure "big girl" is the correct term to use here; I think you're looking for "over-precise". ;)

Since I'm trying to create a DIY desk to fit into the style of a brand-new home where all the furniture should be of a professional standard and a good addition rather than a bodge lol

I am looking to create a sleek hidden design where everything is measured hence removing the issue of things not lining up and twisted or wonky worktops being used :p

Although I'd probably break out the hammer if it wasn't going the right way ;)
 
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Update:

- Case Holder bed will be mounted using drawer sliders for ease of access.
- (Fan Controller) An Aerocool V12XT LCD Large Touch Screen Fan Controller will also be mounted into the surface of the desk.
 
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