Equipment Tray
Lots of thought to the equipment layout in the stand, especially managing the cords. I wanted the cords to be out of sight, but not so difficult to unplug and remove equipment for maintenance or replacement. In my last tank, I had cords organized bundled neatly with plastic ties, mounted on the side walls or ceiling of the stand. It looked nice until I had to unexpectatly remove one piece of equipment. this ended by cutting every tie to find and remove one cord.
This plan has what I call an equipment tray that sits between the sump and the cabinet ceiling. The idea was inspired from a stand built by nanotopia. I was able to use this space because the stand is slightly taller than most designs. The tray accessible from the front and back. The front has doors to mount controls like the Apex to the front of the doors. The back is lined up with the equipment holes. All wires can sit loosely in the tray. This is easier to see than describe:
Equipment tray will be accessible from both front and rear.
With a tall stand and plywood construction, I felt it important to provide additional lateral support. Using several pocket holes at each end of the tray, the equipment tray provides that added bracing.
Placed the equipment tray for size and fit.
Front doors of the equipment tray open. I mentioned the tray does not extend all the way to the back panel, leaving room for plumbing. The top holes on back panel match the height of the tray for easy access.
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