X-rays being viewed on a wall-mounted version of a light table
Light tables are useful for photographers, animators, draftsmen and anyone else who must view their work with light passing through. Even if you are not familiar with a light table, you probably are familiar with the wall-mounted version that doctors use to view X-rays. A basic light table is not complicated to make, and can be built using materials from your local hardware store.
Instructions
1. Cut four pieces from the 1-by-4 board. Two should be 20 inches long, the other two should be 12 inches long.
2. Assemble the four boards into a box, putting the 12-inch pieces on the ends of the 20-inch pieces. Use two wood screws at each of the four corners to hold the box together.
3. Drill a hole in the center of one of the 12-inch sides large enough for the extension cord to pass through.
4. Screw the plywood to the box to form the bottom.
5. Remove the plastic diffuser and bulbs from the two florescent lamps and mount them to the bottom of the box. If the lamps to not have accessible screw holes, glue them in place. Leave some space between them so that air can circulate.
6. String the female end of the extension cord through the hole and plug both lamps into it. Cinch up excess wiring with zip ties and staple them to the plywood.
7. Replace the bulbs in the lamps, turn them on and plug in the extension cord to test the table. The lamps will stay on, with the power being turned on and off by the switch on the extension cord.
8. Slowly drill four holes in the corners of the plastic sheet. Don't use too much pressure or the plastic will split, let the drill move at its own speed.
9. Drill one more hole along each short side of the plastic and two more along the long sides, spaced out evenly. There should be 10 holes total. Countersink all of the holes slightly with a larger bit so that the screws will lie flush.
10. Screw the plastic sheet to the top of the box. Be careful not to over tighten the screws or you will crack the plastic.
Tags: extension cord, light table, familiar with, inches long, plastic sheet
