A DIY Entertainment Center From a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Bob Clagett of I Like To Make Stuff wanted a piece of furniture that would act as both a server rack and TV mount, allowing him to preview videos on demand, and providing a place to mount audio and computer equipment. While some would make something functional, but perhaps a bit boring, Clagett instead built something that looks like an oversized arcade cabinet, fused with a piece space-tracking equipment from Star Wars.

The build process is outlined in the video below, starting with the basic shape of a double server rack on the bottom, control surface in the middle, and TV mount on the top. The three sections are made and completed separately, then attached together to make a finished unit. A flat screen TV is held inside with the help of a wooden bar, and brackets are installed on the bottom to actually hold the audio/computer equipment in place.

To imbue the project with a Star Wars personality, Clagett added a large number of "greeblies" and other random details so that it would look at home in that universe. He also painted it to have a weathered appearance. Finally, an acrylic panel was laser etched to resemble info display as seen in many Rebel command centers, and lit from the sides with LEDs. The media center is quite a combination of prop and useful furniture, especially when displaying a moving “space map” at the end of the video!