DIY Build-in Desk Sockets

Intro: DIY Build-in Desk Sockets

A while ago I got an old desk from my grandpa. It was really filthy so I decided to sandpaper it, but when I was done I wasn't quit happy. I wanted to pimp or modernize it so I choose to build-in some sockets for my laptop or iPod, but when I didn't need them it had to be possible to hide them.
When I looked up a ready made system I saw it cost 370 euros !! That's when I decided to make it my self !
Here my instructables ! Have fun !

STEP 1: Opening

First you have to decided where the sockets must come.
Then you have to make an opening (a square of 10cm). I did this with a small drill and a jig saw. You could use a fretsaw or a dremel.
It's important to damage the square you saw out as less as possible, because it is reused as the cover. But you could use an other cover to.

STEP 2: Create Base

It's important to have a firm base, but this is dependent of the desk you have. The back of my desk wasn't strong and thick enough to secure the system, so I used two hooks.

STEP 3: Attach the Sliders

The slide system is just with some draw sliders. Use the ones with bearings. Before you attach them, you have to push the outer flanges a little bit inwards (with a vice). This creates more friction and prevents the sockets to slide down because of the weight.

STEP 4: Attach the Sockets

You can attach the sockets to the sliders with glue or by screws. IMPORTANT when you use screws, make sure the screws do not touch or damage the electric cabling inside the box !!
You also have to attach a hook on top of the box. This hook attaches the cover to the box and because the hook is made out of metal, it's also used for the magnetic lock system.

STEP 5: The Lock System

For the lock system I used a magnetic pressure catch. Just mount it so the magnetic part connects to the metallic hook.

STEP 6: IT'S DONE !

Now just push on the square so it pops out, then pull out the sockets as far as needed. When you don't need them anymore, just push it down ! SEE MOVIE

Comments

[PekkaH2]

I've been looking for some way to hide pc screen from table and this seems like a possible solution with bigger sliders or such. I just checked that my screen weights around 7 kg so it might need some kind of lock to keep it up.

[MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE]

You should make it spring loaded so that when you push the locking mechanism in, it pops out! when you are done, just push it back in. OH! make the locking mechanism spring loaded too!

[pik1973]

very impressive will give it a go on my desk -thanks

[thirdspaced]

Awesome! Great idea!

[pdub77]

One word: actuator!

[Gunmetalfox]

Very nice, I was thinking the same thing for my laptop power cable but didn't know where to hide it. Now I know, great work!

[hanniballecter90]

logical

[MissouriVillian]

Nice build. Am I the only one who initially thought it would be under the desk lamp for added 007 awesomeness?

[vicvelcro]

Great idea. I think I will use this to create a popup USB stick storage system for my own desk.

Thanks.

[Dominic Bender]

Love the concept! I'm in the process of conquering my workshop, and this goes on my list of things to add.