The Table basic

Has anyone done as the manual speaks about and built a 4’x5’ basic flat table with controller mounted next to the unit

I am finally starting my table design and build. Does this lay out work be for I go overboard and add the many options I have seen and heard.
So do you have the basic table and is it working for you?

A search of this forum and the FB page will give you many examples of tables that people have built. I don’t remember seeing this particular design.

I bought the Kreg 44" x 44" base, then glued up two layers of 3/4" MDF measuring 49" x 60". Then I trimmed it with 3/4" oak to help protect the edges of the MDF. There’s about 8-1/2" to the left and right of the machine legs, and there’s probably just enough room front and back to still have room for an enclosure to sit on top of the table.

I ran the cords under the table top and didn’t need to splice or buy any extensions. I did buy the cable track from Amazon, but I mounted it pretty close to the controller - didn’t need any extensions there either.

I mounted my power strip under the left side of the table (can’t see in the photos). I also placed my shop vac under the table and dustopper bucket on the left side of the table. The router and vac are connected to a tool actuated switch so the vac comes on when I turn on the router.

9 Likes

You will want to find a way to protect the controller from any dust and chips that may go flying.

1 Like

Nice job! I’m looking at doing something similar. I have a friend who suggested that I not place casters on the legs as this makes the table a bit unstable. What are your thoughts on the use of casters.

1 Like

It definitely makes it wiggle a bit. But depending on your setup, you could likely find a way to clamp it to the wall. Once the firmware was updated to increase the jerk rate, it definitely moved around a bit more. I’d always planned on adding cabinets underneath to add more weight, but haven’t gotten around to it yet.

All that being said, the casters were optional. The leg kit, by default, comes with screw in adjustable height feet. But my box was damaged during shipping and two of the feet were missing, so I just stuck with the casters.

3 Likes

OF shows it on the table in the open . Are you saying it is very susceptible to dust and chips. If it is let me know an could you give me dimensions that allow for the wires. So sorry to ask but concerned. Alden what is your table like?
Thank you again I owe you!

1 Like

I have my controller right next to it as well. Right now I have devised a simple shield that drapes over the controller like an umbrella just to keep chips and dust from landing on it. There is a small intake fan on the wired end in the lower corner that if it had some kind of filter it would be great. I’m still thinking of devising one for extra protection. The controller is 10 inches long but my shield is twice that long. I don’t use dust collection while running my machine, I just shop vac after each job. Here’s a photo I just took.

2 Likes

Alden,
You continue to really impress me as you share your time. I love the simplicity of your solutions. And how you repurpose items. I know I’m not suppose to change topic but I have to ask do you cut your own limb cookies and dry them yourself . Last ? For today what is being engraved in this photo
You Rock
Dave

Hi @Dustydave
I made mine W52” x D48” although I wish I had made it 50” depth since I will have both an enclosure and a Suckit dust boot…once it all arrives in late April.

23 Likes

I very much appreciate the geometry of your design - great form and function.

1 Like

Thx @TMToronto
Im 6’3” and it has that nice eyeball-saving angle when opened.:smirk:

Are the blocks attached to the top of the base at the sides to help with lateral stability? Also, are the hexagon sides cut from one solid piece for strength?

I would say YES, and they also secure it to the table as well as guide the doors into closed-position.
Those are not cut as solid pieces, but rather doubled 1/2” Baltic Birch assembled like a picture frame. I even used a frame stapler on a few joints. I added some 1/8” thick steel bar in a few strategic places (the spans).

2 Likes

Okay, that’s seriously cool.

1 Like

Thx @AdamsLeatherWorks
Appreciate the comment. Working on lighting and the power center next.

1 Like

Rodger,
Come on now in my book that is not basic it is quite complex 4 doors and 4 gas struts I love it. I will take this to heart as well as your desire to have the table 50” deep

1 Like

LOL…yeah, the enclosure is beyond basic…but what’s a guy gonna do while waiting 3 mos for his machine?
The basic part, and point, was to share about “sizing ahead” for an enclosure.
Good luck with your build!

1 Like

Thanks for the compliments. The piece being carved are two scrap pieces of a tree slice I had laying around glued together. I found a Mandalorian Man STL file on Etsy for under $2 and am carving it in the photo. I’m making it into a clock. I will post a photo when completed. I do cut my own tree slices when able.

4 Likes

I posted this on FB, some liked it, some didn’t. To me its a great idea. This was shared with me from a friend Robert Brock who made it for his. I just ordered the filters so I can make my own. To me, its like a small filter on a CPAP machine, change it or blow it out every 30 days and it should work just fine.

A small modification to the filter case has to be made to allow it to fit over the controller bolt head.

Take it for what you want, I’m just sharing it.

1

4

9 Likes