Before we get into the nitty gritty, lets run through the options available to you when you head over to the HSPC Store.  First, you have the standard 14 x 8 kit, unassembled and available in black, red, green, light blue or yellow.  This is the version of the kit we are taking a look at today.  The second option is the same as the first, except you get a size upgrade to 14 x 13 boards.  The third option is simply either the first or second options preassembled.  This is great if you don't want to spend the 30 minutes or so it takes to assemble the unit.  Finally, there is a custom build option where you can send your design needs over to Scott and he will work with you to custom build a tech station to your liking and specs.

Assembly/Installation

The goods were send very nicely packed in a rather small package.  Assembly was fairly straight forward and required only some small standard tools (Phillips head screw driver and optional razor blade) and about 20 or 30 minutes.  Plus, High Speed PC includes their usual information sheet with step by step instruction for assembly, and has everything else you would want to know about the station.  Including pictures.  

Testing

It is difficult to put a product like this through any sort of objective benchmarking.  The question that really should be asked is whether or not this unit will do what you would like, or what you would expect, it to.  A good place to start is to take a look at what HSPC claims it can do:

• Puts all your PC hardware within easy reach
• Non-conductive design - High grade polymers - HDPE bench surfaces
• Heavy-duty construction - Sturdy and stable - Can support over 160+ lbs!
• Attractive look - High quality materials - Proudly display this test bench
  

First of all, when hardware is placed in the station, it is MUCH easier to reach components and replace or add more hardware, as compared to a standard case.  Personally, I would have liked to see a little more working room for the hands, but I suppose that can be solved with the larger version offered by HSPC.  The design is certainly non-conductive, as all of the parts are plastic, and the bench surface plates are incredibly stringent and durable.  In fact, to prove the claim that it can support over 160 + pounds, I decided to put myself, weighing in at just under 170 lbs, on top of the unit.  I found that it was able to hold me without any problem, and so I conclude that it is going to be able to support any computer hardware you can manage to put on it!  As far as attractiveness goes, I suppose that is mostly subjective, but I haven't had any complaints yet  I suppose you can make a judgment call based on pictures.   

Taking it further

I asked Scott at High Speed PC if there was anything I could do, or anything he has heard of other people doing to modify or take this unit to the next level.  I really couldn't think of anything, except for maybe adding a few extra fans, or putting on some case lights.  I was informed that for the person looking for a customized option, they will work with you on a custom design and fabrication for whatever you need at a reasonable price.  They also offer the tech station in different colors, as mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

The Tech Station is something I think every serious enthusiast should own.  High Speed PC offers the only one available to date, as the old Senfu stations have been discontinued.  If you are constantly swapping parts, or just want a great solution to your cooling problems, grab yourself one of these tech stations.