How To Build a simple inexpensive portable DIY magnetic laptop computer shelf or laptop work station. This prototype magnetic shelf was designed and built to be light and compact for easy transport for field use in the elevator industry (IUEC). Elevator Tools. In addition to the large rear magnets, there are 4 small rare earth magnets on the inside of The Omnishelf at the top, when shelf is opened, to hold tools, phones etc. There is also a File folder space in for storing important paperwork, comes with a large mouse pad doubles as a smooth desk top, Shelf can be used as portable computer workstation. I have always had deep admiration for people like my supervisor who didn’t need manuals or prints when in the field. The holes were cut only to lighten the weight. The laptop with cables just barely fit on the shelf and 1” deeper and wider would be better. Note holes on right side for screwdrivers etc.

totalElement my new Magnet Supplier - Kevin Gittemeier totalElement my new Magnet Supplier - Kevin Gittemeier

I wanted a Countersunk Flat Head fastener so the machine screws would be flush with top of the board. I chose M4 – 0.70 Flat Head Countersunk Machine Screws because it’s a readily available fastener size available in the different lengths I required. This post is Version 2 build. Version 3 will be lighter and more compact, just one board that folds like origami.

When I first had a need for a laptop shelf in the year 2000, I searched and couldn’t find anything on the market so I bought materials and started to build Version 1 as can be seen here: https://youtu.be/RYzeIt-HlEs

The OmniShelf Portable Workstation, Toolbox, Laptop Stand

I did an online search for utilishelf and also found another company Magbench Portable Work Bench which was more compact (similar to mine) but may not be as rugged and strong as the utilishelf. They both look like good products though if you dont want build one. See info below. Version 1 took me nearly 20 years to complete when I found the half started project while cleaning my basement and finally finished it. Version 2 had been in my head for years but took that long to find the proper hinges. This DIY Portable Magnetic Laptop Shelf (Laptop Work Station) was designed to be light and compact for easy transport for field use in the elevator industry (IUEC). Very happy with the Omnishelf! Raising my review to 5 stars after using it daily. I love how compact this is in the field as it allows me to eliminate carrying a small foldable table for my laptop. To give this shelf additional functionality, I designed some 3D printed accessories that clip directly to the Omnishelf and fit inside the case when transporting: The MagBench Standard is designed for laptop computers and for use with applications that require extra space for tools and test instruments. With the unique design of Gray Marine board and Stainless Steel hardware, it can handle those tough tasks in all-weather conditions. The Standard version is also incredibly strong and it can support up to 50 lbs. The MagBench Standard Workstation can be installed on any steel surface in seconds with just two simple steps; place the MagBench Workstation against the steel surface and fold down the front panel. It’s that easy!

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This spacing is narrow enough to mount to narrow elevator controller doors (Tac-20) and also 3-ph disconnects yet still wide enough to be stable and allow for a zippered cable pouch to store between them. Generally speaking, Bolts are turned from the outside of the head while screws are turned form inside the head by various means including Hex, Philips, Slotted and Tamper Proof bits. There are exceptions to this general rule though. I will use the term bolts from here on though as it’s less typing. Honeycomb hexagon design reinforces both sides of case, opens on steel cables for maximum support, rear magnets are one directional, attached with stainless steel bolts and nuts, safe for laptop, tablets and electronic devices. The Omnishelf is Made in the USA. Edit Note, ok so I built some more variations to compare and maybe I will sell off the extras but they won’t be cheap because I’m not cheap!

The OmniShelf Magnetic Portable Workstation + Toolbox

The new MagBench Utility version is designed with two large holes for drills, wrenches and large tools and six smaller holes to hold screw drivers and other hand tools. There is also a recessed area in the center to retain screws fittings and other hardware. UtiliShelf® in the Field UtiliShelf® works for every industry that demands workers be sent out into the field. From electric metering to oil rigs – and beyond – here are some of the ways our customers are using UtiliShelf® : Portable Desk & Writing Station: Because when you’re in the field, you don’t have a desk. Portable Magnetic Tool & Testing Station: UtiliShelf® can hold up to 15 pounds of tools and testing equipment, while being light enough to grab and go. Portable Computer Workstation: No, there isn’t an app for that. Sometimes you just need a computer in the field. And UtiliShelf® provides a great, productive space for it. Now drill your marks with a 9/64″ drill bit then use a countersink bit to countersink the hole for the bolt heads, or use a countersink drill bit combo, whichever you have or prefer.Service Manual Holder Along with writing you can also hold service manuals weighing up to 15 pounds. Setup the station, open your service manual and you’ll be productive in moments. And you can set it up right where you’re working. As long as there’s a vertical metal surface that is 16 gauge or heavier. Mainstay Poly Cutting Board 11″ x 14.5″ (Dexas NSF Polysafe is the same board): https://amzn.to/3bbfMm3

Magnetic Laptop Mount : 6 Steps (with Pictures) - Instructables Magnetic Laptop Mount : 6 Steps (with Pictures) - Instructables

Cable Storage Bag added to shelf Oh snap, Fabian got the UPGRADE! We added a Velcro Cable Bag to Fabian’s Standard V2 Laptop Shelf Fabian Bravo gets shelf # 004 Glueing Velcro to Cable Bag And he got a companion shelf for a set. Its gonna get jelly around 32. Wide Hinge Model Yeah, why not? Beverage Shelf? Flat & Recessed Top Models David Luther got Model # 001 Andrew Sauer Magnetic Shelf #006 In Connor MacLeod voice Portable Computer Workstation: No, there isn’t an app for that. Sometimes you just need a computer in the field. And UtiliShelf® provides a great, productive space for it.I personally like something more compact that fits in my laptop bag which is why I built variations of my first Version 1 and then Version 2. Wait till you see Version 3, it’ll be like the iPhone, too thin & compact. Laptop Shelf in Laptop Bag Also see the following: Magbench, Mag Bench or another brand called UtiliShelf Magnetic Work Bench and Portable Magnetic Work Station for when in need of a Magnetic Portable Test Equipment or Laptop Shelf or Portable Shelf and Accessories for Field Workers. The Mainstay Cutting Board has a recessed top and flat bottom. You can chose to face either side up and I have done both. After using both I preferred the recessed side up to better hold material including hardware, pens , flashlights etc. Perfect solution for workers using tools, laptop computers, tablets etc. Electricians, Business professionals, HVAC, Maintenance, If your job involves travel, tools or needing a portable laptop stand, tool box, or portable desk we’ve got you covered! After researching all sorts of board options (too much research), I found cutting boards to be the simplest and best option. I also use these as panels to mount electronics.