I decided to test out Trimble SketchUp (Formerly Google SketchUp) (http://www.sketchup.com/). I made a small model of a workstation that I would like to have for my projects.
Let me take you through a few of the special features on my desk.
1. The Drawers
I added 6 different drawers with a lot of space such that I can organize all my electronic components and tools in different drawers.
2. The Computer
I got a little futuristic with the computer. It consists of a very large wall mounted display which is attached to another display laid horizontally of the desk. The second screen can act as both a regular screen or as a keyboard and mouse for navigation.
The CPU of the computer is built in to the table which can be accessed by opening the doors next to the drawers. Inside this more add-ons (like RAM and VGA) can be added or removed from the computer easily.
The USB outputs are placed horizontally on the desk next the screen for ease of access and neatness. The cables for speaker / headphones and microphone can be plugged in the sockets next the USB slots.
3. Component drawers
This is the area on the table where I build my circuits. I need to be able to reach all my components with ease. The squares that are on the table are drawers that can be pulled out easily by pushing inwards. The third drawer is pulled out to demonstrate this. Once its pulled out necessary resistors, inductors, etc can be taken out from the individual compartments. Once pushed down the surface area on the table can be recovered.
The gray mat is an insulation mat surrounded by an RGB el wire that lights up the work area with suitable light.
Finally the white board on top is simply a whiteboard to white reminders or for any other use.
You can download my file from Rapidshare (http://rapidshare.com/files/539307659/John%20Workstation.skp)
Hope you enjoyed reading this article. You can try Trimble SketchUp too by downloading from their website.
