CAD, or Computer Aided Design, is an important part of many different businesses. If you’re spending a lot of time working with CAD programs, you need the right CAD workstation to help you work efficiently and effectively. Here’s what you need for your setup.
The Right Table
An ergonomic setup is very important. CAD often means long hours, so you need a setup that offers you decent back support and keeps you comfortable in a seated position for a long time. Choose a table that is a comfortable height for you. You knees shouldn’t touch the underside of the table, and your elbows should be able to rest comfortably on the surface.
Choose a table with with deep drawers, so you can keep other tools you need, like a Vernier caliper, close to hand as you work. Make sure you have enough leg space under the desk, so you’re not banging your knees on the drawers.
The Right Chair
For an ergonomic setup, you need the right chair too. Choose a chair that has arm rests, and adjust them to the right height for you. Look for good back support, with a strong chair back, so handle the hours of sitting you’re likely to do. Choose a fabric that feels comfortable to you, and pick a rolling chair for ease of moving around your workspace.
Lighting
Too little light is a bad idea for any workspace, as this can cause eye strain, especially when you’re looking at a screen all day. Buy a proper light source, whether that’s changing the bulb in the ceiling light for a brighter option or adding a lamp to your desk. A lamp that clamps onto the table would work well, as you can move it to where you need some more light to work.
Power
If you’re running a powerful rig, you need enough power to keep it running without power failures. A power cut can wipe out hours of work, so set up UPSs, batteries and stabilizers so you have backup power, and a good chance of keeping your computer going.
Storage
It’s important that you have plenty of storage for all your work. Choose a workstation with plenty of built in storage, and then make sure you’re also set up for cloud storage. Cloud storage can be a great way to back up your work and keep it secure. For larger 3D CAD models, you should have them physically written on a directly connected SSD.
Wire Organisation
CAD workstations usually involve a lot of different kit all plugged in, which means a lot of wires. Wires trailing everywhere can get in the way of your work, and end up annoying you. Some wire clamps or other wire organisation options are a great way to keep all the wires all under control and much tidier. You can attach a wire clamp to your desk to keep the desk surface clearer, and all your wires corralled in a neat manner.
