This week’s selection is MicroLab 2 by Can Berk.
Microlab 2 is a design for a “Homelab”. If you’re not familiar with the term, it is a small home server that can be used for a variety of projects, including home automation, webserving, file archive, etc.
Homelabs typically involve processors, storage, networking and other components. Often those new to homelabs will simply pile all of the components on a table and run cables between them. That will work, but is definitely not neat and tidy. More advanced homelabs will use a computer rack mounting system to hold all the components and ensure the wiring is comprehensible. The problem is that rack mount systems tend to be pretty large and expensive for a hobby.
Enter Microlab 2. It’s a fully 3D printable design for a homelab rack mount system. Berk designed the system to be smaller than the standard 10” rack mount systems on the market to create a much smaller footprint.
Microlab 2 is quite flexible in design. It is entirely modular, meaning there is the capability to handle a variety of standard components inside the housing. It’s also scalable: you can simply print more parts and extend it upwards as required.
You need only determine the types of parts required for your installation, and then print them. The parts are easily assembled with standard, low-cost M3 bolts, or optionally with magnets for some panels.
It’s also possible to attach display panels and trays, making many applications possible. There’s even a setup for incorporating cooling systems.
As you might imagine, there are quite a few different parts for this project, and you’ll have to determine which are required for your installation. Of course, you can always change things up because of the modularity of Microlab 2.
Even better, the part designs have been published by Berk on GitHub. This will allow anyone to modify any of the existing parts to accommodate new functionality.
If you’re contemplating a sophisticated but small homelab, you might want to check out Microlab 2.
Via MakerWorld and GitHub
