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Build a computer INTO a desk?

post #1 of 11
4/14/04 at 11:57am
Thread Starter 
I am considering building my next computer. I am going to wait until the PCIE is fairly common and maybe even wait for 64bit windows (ya, I know it will take a while). I am thinking why have a desktop ... why not integrate the components INTO the desk? I am considering modding my current desk with some sort of plexiglass enclosure where there is currently a little cabinet for disks and such, or may just take all the shelves and such out and build it into the wood.

I could cut out openings for the cd-dvd drives, mount the hard drive directly onto the wood/plexi, mount the USB ports in handy locations, mount fans into the desk/cabinet for airflow, etc

Is this possible or am I missing something? I am one of those "old" guys (mid 30's must seem ancient to several on here), my moving days are hopefully behind me so I would not have to worry about damaging components in a move. I would put some sort of lock on the enclosure to prevent unauthorized persons (read: children/wife) from getting to the electronics. Any suggestions or warnings?
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post #2 of 11
4/14/04 at 12:09pm
The only thing that I can think of is heat and air flow.
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post #3 of 11
4/14/04 at 4:31pm
Absolutely no reason this wouldn't work. Given a desk is usually much larger than a case, I'd think air flow would be less of a problem, but G is right to point out these issues are critical in doing any computer setup. I'd also look at mapping exactly where everything goes first, with an eye towards keeping the whole thing neat and all components readily accessible for replacement, maintenance, repair. Also, give some thought to future upgrades. With all that volume, you could be adding drives and what not for years. How about dual monitors? Multiple Media drives? Where do all your I/O connect and how? What about using Bluetooth or other wireless tech for peripherals like mouse and keyboard? That way, if you wanted to sit elsewhere, you could. Same with auxillary outputs to say a large format screen and a full-on speaker system and maybe full integration with your entertainment setup. How about auxillary storage? Nice to have it all in one place.

I do a lot of 3D modeling, if you want to send me some pics and dimensions of your desk, I'll build you a 3D model of it. I already have some components modeled. PM me.
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post #4 of 11
4/14/04 at 6:00pm
yea you definatly have to watch out with heat and airflow, this sounds awsome, but what happens when you need to replace the desk?
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post #5 of 11
4/14/04 at 6:01pm
I seen a complete desk mod in some magazine. It turned out great. If I find it, I'll post a picture.
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post #6 of 11
4/14/04 at 6:07pm
DeskMod picture. It was in Maximum PC March 2004 issue.
LL
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post #7 of 11
4/14/04 at 7:20pm
Check out Wizzertoys's thread (in the Sager section, I think) about making a chair. I think there were several links in there to some wild desk inventions. Might give you some ideas before you get started.


Edit:
Wizzertoys thread here: http://notebookforums.com/showthread...ght=Wizzertoys
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post #8 of 11
4/15/04 at 11:54am
Thread Starter 
Thanks for all the input, especially the link to the Maximum PC article. That is almost exactly what I have in mind. I am going to wait for PCIE and then build this monster.

About replacing the desk I do not think that would be an issue. My current desk is 5 years old and showing no signs of wear ... can't say that about my 3 year old PC.
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post #9 of 11
7/5/04 at 9:54am
I incorporated an old P2 system into a desk. We had the pullout that typically houses a pair of drawers that I gutted and then "carved out" the ATX case so all that was left was the back panel and the frame the front drives and the motherboard attached to. That mounted inside the pullout, with the drive faces flush with the front of the pullout. Heat wasn't an issue, due largely to the prehistoric system. Adding stuff was handy because once you pulled out the "computer", the guts of the system were open and readily accissible.

Problems:

- The unit required LONG cords for power, monitor, speakers, key/mouse, etc.
- I had concerns about rf issues, as there was no grounded metal case surrounding the unit. Not powerful enough to create issues, but a P4 might.
- Getting into the back of the system to attach cords was a huge pain in the butt.
- I could not attach the screws for the drive on the frame side because it was inside the pullout and I didn't want to punch another hole into the rapidly-disintergrating particle board of the cheap desk.

It was a nice idea, anyway.
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post #10 of 11
7/5/04 at 8:33pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by iome
'but what happens when you need to replace the desk?
He buys a new comp
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post #11 of 11
7/5/04 at 9:47pm
i saw one built into the draw of a desk. I think the main problem was that if the extraction fan fails, it tends to get very hot very quickly (more so than in the metal case of a PC).
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