Overview

In the Marriott Library, we manage a number of Mac Studio and iMac systems for patron use. Ensuring the physical security, accessibility, and usability of these devices has presented several logistical challenges. For example, iMac power supply units are external and often cannot reach or fit within nearby floor receptacles, leaving them vulnerable to foot traffic and potential damage. Mac Studio units, when placed on top of lab tables, contribute to clutter, complicate cable management, and expose ports to unintended use—often resulting in disconnected peripherals.

The Protospace is a collaborative makerspace located on the second floor of the J. Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah. It is open to all University of Utah students, faculty, and staff. It provides a wide variety of resources and tools for hands-on, creative, and technical projects. This includes everything from digital media production to small-scale fabrication. You can find things like:

• 3D printers and scanners
• Virtual Reality (VR) and geospatial information systems (GIS)
• Media production studios and podcast booths
• Gaming consoles and board games
• Small-scale fabrication tools like vinyl cutters and sewing machines
• A Data Visualization Wall for research and projects.

The space is designed to support experiential learning, helping to bridge the gap between academic concepts and real-world application.

Download Files:

All of the 3D models for these projects are saved as .stl files. They can be downloaded from this link: Model Files

Mac Studio Mount

Challenge

Mac Studio systems pose multiple issues in shared computing environments:

• Their footprint occupies significant table space
• Lightweight form factor makes them easy to move or tamper with
• Peripheral ports are frequently accessed inappropriately (e.g., monitors unplugged for personal use)
• Prior security solutions, such as metal cages, were bulky, expensive, and difficult to maintain

• BMS Mac Studio Trap

Solution

Fusion 360, a cloud-based 3D design, engineering, and manufacturing software developed by Autodesk, is known for its affordability and accessibility compared to traditional CAD/CAM software, all while providing professional-grade tools. Our objective was to design a custom under-desk enclosure for the Mac Studio, achieving the following goals:

• Free up table space
• Maintain Kensington lock compatibility for security
• Allow easy system removal for maintenance
• Prevent cable disconnection and tampering
• Improve cable management
• Keep production costs low

The enclosure is secured with #8 × 3/4-inch hex-head self-drilling screws. A Kensington lock can still be used, and a rear cable guard secured with a padlock prevents tampering. Systems can be easily removed by sliding them out after releasing the lock.

3D Printer Details

These 3D enclosures were printed on Bambu X1E printers and don’t require any additional support material. Each 1kg PLA spool comes with four enclosures, priced at around $10. The print time for each unit is approximately 4.5 hours. Over the course of a few weeks, we printed and secured 30 machines in the Knowledge Commons lab. As a result, the lab tables are much less cluttered, the systems are safely secured, and patrons are no longer able to disconnect any peripherals. Instead, they are encouraged to use the lab’s personal laptop stations.

       
The enclosure comes in two parts:

1. The main enclosure.
2. The rear cable guard, which slides onto a post on the back of the main enclosure. It swings out of the way for cable access and can be locked close with a padlock.

The download link for all the .stl files can be found in “Overview”

These .stl files can be used with compatible 3D modeling software or directly imported into a 3D printer for fabrication. Make sure to check the printer compatibility and scaling settings before printing to achieve the best results.

iMac Power Supply Mounts

Challenge

The Apple Silicon iMac’s uses a 143W power adapter that connects magnetically to the back of the computer via a detachable, woven power cord. For network connectivity, the power adapter on 24-inch iMacs with four ports includes a Gigabit Ethernet port. Managing these creates difficulties with:

• Inconsistent floor receptacle placement
• Cable clutter and damage
• Tripping hazards

Solution

We designed a versatile mount for the iMac power brick that can be:

• Screwed directly into the underside of a desk (using the same #8 × 3/4-inch hex-head self-drilling screws)
• Secured to desk legs using 1″ Velcro straps
• Easily detached for maintenance via a snap-fit mechanism

3D Printing Details

These units were printed on Prusa MK4S printers, designed to be support-free for a more efficient workflow. Each printer produced eight enclosures overnight, allowing for streamlined batch production. Over several sessions, we were able to produce the required units without interruption. The lack of support material not only reduced waste but also eliminated the need for post-processing, speeding up the overall installation process.

The download link for all the .stl files can be found in “Overview”

• Amazon Link – 32ft Roll 1″ Velcro Straps

Floor Receptacle Wedges

It should be noted that in completing this project, we found that the floor receptacles are prone to damaging any cables. The built-in port doors often shear or damage cables when stepped on. Previous solutions (e.g., PVC pipe segments) were ineffective and unsightly. We developed a wedge-shaped insert that fits securely into the receptacle port, preventing the door from closing on cables. These inserts are durable enough to withstand foot traffic and remain securely in place without adhesives.

3D Printing Details:

• Printed 8 per batch on Prusa MK4S printers
• Dozens of wedges produced from a single 1kg PLA spool

The download link for all the .stl files can be found in “Overview”

If you have any feedback, questions, or suggestions regarding the solutions and projects detailed in this post, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us directly through the “Contact Us” link or share your thoughts by posting a comment below. We value your input and look forward to engaging with you!