Nick started by using ‘Google Sketchup’ to design the stand.

The local ‘do-it-yourself’ store cut our MDF into more manageable pieces.
Our calculations for the size of each piece were done for 1 inch MDF. But they only had 3/4 inch boards. So we had to recalculate some measurements.

We used some scrap wood to make a few 90 degree angled pieces to help us put together the first boards.

Since we were still fresh and unaware of how much work this was going to be, we were at least smart enough to recognize this fact and started with the most complicated piece first: the bottom box that holds the computers.

The bottom box needed a door with locks and many vents to cool our XBOX 360’s (they apparently get HOT sometimes ;P). We decided to go for six fans, which are all powered by one converted PC power supply.

Once the main box was done, we moved on to creating the first side piece. These went pretty smooth. The only challenge was to cut the big pieces at the right angles with a circular saw. Rinse and repeat!

A quick assembly to make sure it all fits. We’ll pretend that we were not at all surprised it fit perfectly.

Now onto painting!

First we primed the entire stand in white, then we painted the table top glossy white and all other parts gray. The background for the N+ logo is yellow, just like the digital logo for N+.

Once we gave everything a couple of layers of paint and a protective layer of varnish, we decided it was probably a good idea to essemble everything before transporting the stand to PAX.

And finally!

Gamers playing N+ on the Xbox 360 at PAX.

It turned out to be a great success. Gamers had a lot of fun playing N+ and the stand worked out great. Now back to the office and finish N+ so all of you that did not make it to PAX can play it on Xbox live arcade very soon.