Where do you store your multimeters and programmers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 08:57:43 pm
content: Where do you guys store small tools like multimeters and programmers? I put them in a drawer, but I want to get a new desk and it doesn't have a drawer and I don't want to install some drawers either because they take too much space in the bottom of the desk.I want to put them on the desk surface so I can reach them quickly when I need them, but I want to keep them out of the way when I don't.I think I want something equivalent to a pencil holder, with space for all the cables. No, not a toolbox because you have to open it and you have to dig around to find what you need. Maybe something like a platform with various levels so the tiny programmer doesn't end in the bottom.This may be what I am looking for, but I don't know if it is a stupid idea:http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40219469/#/60153250It fits perfectly below a shelf I want to put above the desk and has removable trays. The only bad thing I can think of is that it is made of metal, so it is conductive. Not so good for an electronics bench.I have moved this from the chatbox.Ivan

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:15:20 pm
content: I modified my workbench, which started as this ikea desk:http://www.carolinetiger.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/IKEA_MICKE_orangewhite.jpgI added about 15 hooks around the edge of the top section, and around the sides. I just hang programmers/test leads/etc on them, and they are easily accessible when needed. Multimeters go in the drawer. But the hooks are very, very useful.

author: sonicj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:25:17 pm
content: stacking/nesting binsakrobins

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:34:54 pm
content: 8086: Let's see if I get it. Do you use the system they use in stores to hang products? You know, those panels with holes on them and metal hooks?SonicJ: looks OK, but it has the disadvantage of the stackable things: if you want to get the bottom bin it becomes a pain on the neck. But if you only put cables on the bottom bin there's no reason to get the bin out.I am also considering adding some storage boxes to store each project's schematics, boards, components bought for the project and enclosures. It can become heavy so it cannot be stackable, but don't worry, I think I solved that problem. I'll just use a shelf.Here's a sneak peek of what it may be. Beware, it will take months to make the current room look like that:

author: sonicj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:45:19 pm
content: Quote from: ivan747 on February 19, 2012, 09:34:54 pmthe bins are accessible when stacked. the stacking system is mainly to eliminate the need for a rack. those bins will also hang on louvered panels.-sj

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:58:02 pm
content: Quote from: ivan747 on February 19, 2012, 09:34:54 pmNope, just fixed the hooks directly to the desk.Here's a pic. I'm not using many at the moment but they are quite often full of wires

author: Tube_Dude
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 11:00:18 pm
content: Why not have them always ready for action...

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 06:23:21 pm
content: Quote from: 8086 on March 19, 1974, 11:47:48 pmThat's probably the best way. The problem is I don't have a surface to attach the hooks to, unless I use solid planks of wood for the shelves. The material used to make IKEA shelves is too weak to screw those hooks in.

author: Short Circuit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2012, 07:18:36 pm
content: Commonly used tools should be close at hand.Typically they're 'stored' where I last used them

author: PeteInTexas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2012, 04:09:39 am
content: My work bench is a used office desk. I ripped out the drawers and used the space to put in shelves on drawer slides, 4 on each side at varying heights. Basically, they are drawers with just the bottom, no sides or front. Perfect for hand tools, all within reach, no digging around because there is plenty of space.the work bench is in the two cargaragestorage room and one of these days I will manage to clear around it enough to take a picture and post.

author: Deepak
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2012, 04:46:03 pm
content: Quote from: ivan747 on February 20, 2012, 06:23:21 pmYou could use confirmat screws, if you can get a hold of them, and hand a hook from those.Or the simpler option, and what I would recommend, would be to use wall anchors. You'd drill out a hole slightly larger than the anchor and when you screw the hook into it it should expand and fill the gap.Something likehttp://www.amazon.com/OOK-59208-Piece-Assorted-Anchor/dp/B003WE9XUY/ref=sr_1_7?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1330015506&sr=1-7