[Boatanchors] Re: Test Bench Construction

[J. Forster]

I've made a number of test benches over the years and here are some suggestions:

Bench length needs to be a minimum of 6 ft, more if you are going to put drawers underneath. I'd suggest looking for used Lyons or similar work benches, or possibly new knock offs. The top thickness is critical. IMO, you need a minimum of 1.5". Wood or composite is your choice. I tend to prefer white formica as a working surface, except for metal working, where I use Maple butcher block. You need the thickness so as not to sag.  My preferred depth is 30".

Risers should be of the same material. They should be far enough to allow a rack chassis to slip underneath, if you have rack gear. Riser width should be about 1/2 of the bench width, say 15". Much of my test gear goes on the risers.

Drawer units are very useful. I tend to use a fixed drawer unit under one end of the bench. A mix of shallow and deep drawers is good. Rubbermaid interlocking drawer divider are useful for keeping the tools in order. A drawer set with solid top is also useful as a roll around cart.

Smooth, light colored floors are good for finding dropped small parts. Stay away from carpets. Also, get a good quality adjustable height drafting chair. Your bank will thank you.

Scopes do well on carts, or on a roll around.

You need outlets everywhere. It's worth thinking about a switched and unswitched power strip, the latter to power things that have crystals in ovens, etc.

Good lighting is also essential. I use a mix of track and task lighting/ Stay away from track lights with 'solid state' transformers. They make loads of EMI.

I use paper desk pads to protect the work surface. They are fairly cheap at office supply stores and you can scribble notes on them. Shelf liners  as suggested by another are also good.

FWIW,
-John