HobbyZone Modular Workshop System OM15 Multimedia Module Review

By Michael Benolkin

Review

HobbyZone continues to turn out interesting workbench modules to solve problems that you didn't know you had. Here is their latest, the OM15 Multimedia Module, which is designed to hold your smart device at a convenient angle so you can view online references while you work. The module is similar in layout to the recent OM13 Sprue Rack which will sit atop your storage modules using the enclosed magnets, or sit on your benchtop. I use the OM13 directly on my bench for easy access, and I've added this module next to the OM13.

As you can see in the title image, this module will hold an iPad in portrait or landscape position using the adjustable cradle. The cradle can also be adjusted for tilt so you can view the screen from the table top or from atop your modules. There is also a hole in the back of the module so you can run a USB cable to your device for extended power.

Assembly is quick and easy and also includes the magnets to allow these modules to 'snap' together. I used Gorilla non-foaming Wood Glue to assemble my modules and I have been using the HobbyZone system for several months now without a single glue join failure. The modules are well designed and the glue makes them robust. The instructions have you laminate several layers of parts to create the cradle and cradle jaws. The note in the instructions state that you need to be careful to align the holes, but my solution was simple. Since you'll be putting screws into the holes after assembly, I put them in after applying the glue to not only thread the holes, but also to self-clamp the parts together in perfect alignment.

The cradle is not only adustable in width, but also depth. There are screws in the back of each cradle to open or close up the thickness to suit your own device.

Here's the OM15 holding my Android telephone, and the cradle will even go analog and hold instruction books/booklets when you're not using your smart device(s).

You can see this and other modules at the HobbyZone website (www.hobbyzone.biz) and on their eBay Store. Stay tuned as we build up other modules and see what we can do with them to organize the bench!

My thanks to HobbyZone.biz for this review sample.