New computer setup in my garage...

[bimmerZ5]

So, a few months back, I began considering getting a new computer in the garage to replace my old clunky 10yr old machine and to reclaim some workbench space. I asked a few questions here: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=195947

I took my time and did some more research and even went to a few stores to look at the new All-In-One touch screen computers. I was initially concerned about having to clean the screen since my hands always get covered in grease and dirt when I'm working on something. What I found out was that most touchscreens, unlike regular LCD screens, have a hard glass surface.... which actually makes it very easy to clean. And most designs have the glass going edge to edge, so there are no corners where grime can build up. It's really as easy as taking a windex wipe and just wiping it down edge to edge.

My other concern was price... a lot of these AIO touch screen computers were priced between $700-$1000 and I wasn't really wanting to spend that much. The ASUS one I was looking at was a 21" screen going for about $700+. In my search, i finally came upon a much cheaper option, which was the Lenovo B540 from Lenovo outlet for $450+free shipping and it's a 23" screen, which is even larger than the ASUS i was originally considering!!

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So, I finally got everything mounted. (will attach pictures)

 

[bimmerZ5]

here's a picture of the unit mounted on the wall. and a picture of the articulating arm (Ergotron) it doesn't take up much space at all and the space behind it was perfect for a few items on my Gladiator wall panels and I used the Gladiator J-hooks to hold the keyboard and mouse. Pleasant surprise which I didn't think about is that this Lenovo unit comes with a wireless keyboard and mouse that are very compact. Since it's a touchscreen, I can actually do quite a bit without the keyboard and leave it on the wall and off the workbench. if I do need it for extensive typing (like posting on GJ), it's easy to reach and is actually a nice keyboard... with an aluminum casing so it's pretty durable.

 

[bimmerZ5]

Here's a picture of the keyboard and mouse mounted on the wall with the computer moved out of the way. The Ergotron arm works really really well... very heavy duty and works smoothly. The only cord in this setup is the power cord that goes to the back of the unit.

also attaching a picture with the computer on. it's running Windows 8... not sure I like it yet, but it's built to be used with touchscreens so I'll keep it for now.

wallpaper picture on the screen is of a Weissman Roadster... would love to have one some day.

 

[bimmerZ5]

although the new touch screen computer is pretty awesome, the stereo speakers on this thing is pretty good too, which is useful for youtube videos or playing music via streaming radio. i don't have a sound setup in the garage, so this will be my source for tunes when i'm working on stuff.

but really, the biggest "win" here is the reclaimed workbench space... i found myself having to shift the old computer around, move the keyboard, etc. when i was working on something and always wished I could have that workbench space back, and now i do.

 

[my68spit]

TVR fan, eh? Setup looks nice. I can't wait to get a setup like that in my garage. Need to get organized first.

 

[Vegaman_Dan]

I just run a simple laptop in my garage, and even then rarely is it powered up. I don't really have the space for it.

Touchscreen all in one PC like HP's Touchsmart series would be a decent solution as they also work as TV's as well. Keeping the dust from body working and metal grinding out of the vents would be tricky. Electronics don't like metallic dust!

 

[Anglia Guy]

Just a simple laptop in mine, too. But yours is simply awesome dude!!

 

[bimmerZ5]

I just run a simple laptop in my garage, and even then rarely is it powered up. I don't really have the space for it.

Touchscreen all in one PC like HP's Touchsmart series would be a decent solution as they also work as TV's as well. Keeping the dust from body working and metal grinding out of the vents would be tricky. Electronics don't like metallic dust!

yeah, i see your point, but fortunately, i'm not doing body work in my garage. but i can see the concern.

i actually use my computer in the garage a LOT. there's so much information online these days, it's almost easier to do a online search for torque specs than it is to flip through 800 page shop manual...

 

[wrench409]

I added a 19" touch screen panel to my PC monitor. Running Win7 with a touch screen is great. Four screws, some DS sticky tape and it's mounted inside the original 19" LCD screen case.

 

[Sludge Puppy]

Nice all in one package. I have been debating building something similar for the garage. Currently i have the tv that I can stream from the IPad to, or use the apple tv and all attached. but I want something closer to the bench that I can look more things up, for pdf manuals etc. For the price, this thing seems like a steal and is sleek! nice job

 

[bimmerZ5]

I added a 19" touch screen panel to my PC monitor. Running Win7 with a touch screen is great. Four screws, some DS sticky tape and it's mounted inside the original 19" LCD screen case.

any pictures?

Nice all in one package. I have been debating building something similar for the garage. Currently i have the tv that I can stream from the IPad to, or use the apple tv and all attached. but I want something closer to the bench that I can look more things up, for pdf manuals etc. For the price, this thing seems like a steal and is sleek! nice job

yeah, I have a tablet too... and although very useful, I've found it limiting. that's what prompted me to put an old computer in the garage, but then it was taking up too much workbench space. this new setup is another step forward.