CNC Information and Projects

Here is a computer cabinet for the shop's CNC machines.

Behind the bottom doors is the computer in its original tower. A door on the cabinet's back permits easy access to the computer's wires. Second image.

The back of the cabinet also has a filtered vent (HVAC return) that allows heat to escape.

The unit now has shelves on the top, with a sheet of plastic that prevents chips from falling into the cabinet. Bottom right image.

The number keypad (arrow) serves as a low cost plug and play pendant. It is wrapped in a sandwich bag to help with dust.

The cabinet is on quality casters so it rolls easily.

The top front doors give access to the old CRT monitor.

Ken, a visitor to this site, sent the image below of his monitor support. The closet rods are simpler than an oddly shaped shelf.

There have been requests for plans for the cabinet, but this unit was made from scrap, so its dimensions matched leftover materials rather than a predetermined design. However, I did draw the draft below; it has not been built, but it should help to get one started.

It was designed to use only one sheet of 3/4 inch plywood or MDF.

The angled cuts on the sides allow enough leftover wood for the back. There is enough material available for most any door layout when the middle shelf is not full cabinet depth.

Before building, check the width of the keyboard and monitor. The 20 inches shown is usually wide enough.

Full sheets of stock can be difficult to haul home. It may be easier to have the store make a few cuts.

First cut off the 20 inch end for the back and keyboard.

Ken's cabinet has an angled top, which looks nicer than the top's flat edges on my unit. However, a flat top cabinet can be covered with a board that serves as a work surface when the computer is off.