and I agree with using a pc as a starting point. my point was that
EVENTUALLY you have to USE your tools, and the ONLY definitive layout is
achieved in real life. There's absolutely nothing wrong with getting a
leg up by trial and error by shifting things around on screen, but I'm
sure even you know that "the proof is in the pudding". in this case,
the pudding is "the real world". I wasn't saying NOT to start with CAD.
what I said was what was "best". I certainly wasn't scolding you g

and what is with the comment about moving heavy stuff around? don't you
have heavy items on mobile carts? g

dave

Dan Dresner wrote:

I agree with almost everything you said, Dave, but want to point out that a
CAD program does *not* suggest that objects are static. It's a
representation of the real world, not the real world itself. Anyone who
doesn't realize that tools are capable of being moved around has no business
playing with them in the first place.

Here are some clues that the equipment is meant to be moved:

"...jointer is easily moved away from wall for use"
"...dust collector near door: easy to roll outside"
"...belt sander easily repositioned for long pieces"
"...router table ...can be moved away easily"
"...oscillating sander can use router table..."
"...thickness planer moves to the assembly table"
"...Sheet goods bin ...2" metal wheels allow it to swing away from the
lumber rack."
"...sharpening station (on wheels)"
"...mechanic's tool chest (on wheels)"

I disagree when you say that "The best way to arrange is in the shop; not on
the pc." Pushing many hundreds of pounds of equipment back and forth to find
the best location takes second place to a little intelligent forethought and
planning, and that's *exactly* what CAD programs are designed for. And this
particular program allows one to move stuff around in real time, just by
clicking and dragging, including in 3-D, all in exact scale. You really
should take a look at it. Hey, it beats sweating any time, and it darned
sure beats purchasing a piece of equipment only to find out later that you
don't really have the proper space for it. Probably if I was less that 2000
miles away from my shop, I would do a little pushing and shoving, but I'm
not, so I can't!

Sorry if I sound testy, Dave: maybe I am just misinterpreting the tone of
your message. It's just that you seem to be saying the exact same things in
your note that I said in my post, but with a scolding tone. Maybe it's just
me. I really do look for positive and constructive feedback, Dave, and hope
I haven't reacted to hastily.

DanD

"Bay Area Dave" wrote in message
y.com...

anyone considering putting lots of equipment in a 2 car garage, such as
you've listed will do well to put them all on mobile stands. Then there
really isn't a static setup as a CAD program would suggest. In use,
equipment gets re-arranged by the moment to fit the task at hand. i.e.,
to joint a long board, you aren't going to be able to use the jointer if
it's sitting alongside obstructions. The best way to arrange is in the
shop; not on the pc.