Your comments on this layout

[Salty]

I have been struggling with a custom computer desk layout and this my be it.
Typically I do not have both computers on. However, it is a backup system and I want to be able to include it in the design. I also use a KVM so there is only 1 monitor and keyboard.
The space between is 30", same as current, and seems to be enough. I calculated that each drawer would hold about 50 CDs. The file drawer would be turned 90 degrees from normal so the folders would be facing you with the drawer open...the way it should be IMHO.
I also figured that the center vertical would have to be installed last and from the back. That would make putting the drawer slides on much easier. I'd probably slide the 3/4" plywood into a dado slot.

[jackellis]

I like what you've done, though if it was MY desk, I'd need more than a couple of small drawers for all the stuff that's piled on top.

I assume there won't panels behind the two CPUs so you get plenty of air flow, correct? If you're worried about making sure the whole thing won't rack, corner blocks will probably be enough. If you do put a sheer panel behind each side of the desk, I'd make sure it has some cutouts or holes for ventilation, and some other holes for wires.

[poolhound]

30" just seems a little confining for me but my desk is totally open so its hard to say. As Jack mentioned, do ensure you have figured plenty of ventilation for the computers. FYI you can buy small fans just like in the desktop cabinet itself that you can fit into such desk enclosures to ensure a good airflow. The last thing you want is to have them overheat.

[Salty]

Thanks for the response and suggestions.

There will probably be a panel on the back of each end section. These will have cutouts in the back over most of the opening for the tower. This will also leave plenty of room for wires but the CPU towers will go in from the front. That way the backing panel, probably be 1/4", can cover the entire section and make the unit stronger. There may also be another plywood section between these sections that will provide verticle support, then another narrower piece across the entire span.
Another thing that I am going to do is make this in sections that can be taken apart. It will be on wheels as my current one is but I want to be able to get it out of the basemant in sections. I did that on the entertainment center that I made and it has worked out very well when it is time to re-arrange the furniture.
Those top drawers will be about 4" high and 18" wide. Should be plenty of room for my 'stuff'. Most of the things that are on the shelves above now will be in the drawers so I am not planning any shelves above the desktop at this time.

[Salty]

Actually, 30" is plenty for me, except that is is off center. Right now I sit with the keyboard and mouse pad on a 30" slide out tray. However, while sitting all the way to the left, where the keyboard is, my left leg would be against the left section. My current desk has a drawer at the top but it is open below. There is about 10" of space between my right knee and the right side of the desk opening.
What I need is a flip out mouse tray. That way the keyboard can be in the center and I would be sitting in the center of the 30" opening. Maybe a set of butler hinges would work.


.........and don't even mention a trackball...I hate those things!