Short instructable. I work best with having as many things at my fingertips as possible.My central work area (which I call my command station) has various monitors, power supplies, tools, computers, etc. for easy access. One of the things I decided I needed to add was an air compressor.

Step 1: Air Compressor

I took an inexpensive air compressor from a local department store which costs $12. It was designed to be a small compressor for use in a car to refill a flat tire.

Step 2: Decisions Decisions

I would have easily plugged the adapter into a converter plug, but then I would have lost a plug space. So, I cut the leads and decided to hard wire it directly into my bench power supply. I wired a +12V to a +5V in series to give me just over +16V (some loss due to connection and length). This is sufficient to run the air compressor. +12V direct line was just not strong enough on its own, probably due to some loss through the line and connections.

Step 3: The Guts Needed for Wiring

The power supply actually consists of two ATX power supplies and a 24V switching supply.

Step 4: Location Location Location

Once the compressor was properly powered, I just strapped it to the side case holding my power supplies. I placed an L bracket underneath and a strip of metal ribbon around the top for stability. This allows the air hose to fall beside it and is easy access for both the line and the power button. I can use it to compress air, blow away dust and shavings from my work area, run my model spray painter for delicate work, and a variety of other tasks. Having it this close just makes my work flow that much easier. Not sure if anyone else could use the same thing, but I enjoy it so thought someone else might.