Portable Touring Case For Large Format Plotter Printer

Designed and manufactured for Dan Mercer Production, this custom LM Cases touring plotter and printer workstation provides a complete mobile printing solution for live entertainment and touring production environments. The case integrates a large-format plotter, a Brother color laser printer, rack-mounted equipment, power and network connections, and dedicated supply storage into a single, self-contained road case.

The upper section features a custom foam-lined compartment designed to accommodate a large-format plotter printer. The printer is positioned at a comfortable standing height, allowing operators to access its controls and handle printed materials without removing the equipment from the case. Custom foam blocking provides protection during transport while maintaining access to the printer's essential functions.

Below the plotter compartment, a dedicated pull-out printer shelf accommodates a Brother HL-L3230CDW color laser printer. The shelf is specifically designed around the printer's dimensions and features a carpet-lined base with custom foam blocking to secure the printer during transport. A recessed opening in the shelf's front panel allows access to the printer's paper tray without removing the printer from its compartment. Heavy-duty drawer slides provide convenient access for operation and maintenance.

Adjacent to the printer shelf is a 6RU equipment rack designed to accommodate networking equipment, power distribution, uninterruptible power supplies, or other rack-mounted electronics required for the printing system. The integrated rack allows the workstation's supporting equipment to remain installed and organized for quick deployment.

Three heavy-duty storage drawers provide dedicated space for paper, printer consumables, cables, and other production supplies. Two upper drawers offer convenient access to frequently used materials, while a large, full-width lower drawer provides additional capacity for oversized items. The lower drawer incorporates steel tube reinforcement to support its larger dimensions and storage requirements.

Power and network connectivity are integrated into the workstation through a custom LM Tour Systems connection panel. The panel features a recessed Hubbell power inlet wired to a 20A Hubbell duplex receptacle, along with a Neutrik CAT5 connection for network connectivity. An additional D-series connector opening provides flexibility for future system expansion. The connections are positioned behind a hinged cable access hatch, protecting them during transport while maintaining convenient access during setup.

The case's internal structure is constructed from 3/4" Baltic birch plywood, with 1/2" Baltic birch drawers mounted on heavy-duty Accuride drawer slides. Exposed interior surfaces and drawer faces feature a durable black texture-coated finish.

The exterior is constructed from 1/2" plywood laminated with black ABS plastic and reinforced with protective aluminum edging and recessed hardware. The removable front lid incorporates storage for two sets of heavy-duty steel table legs, extending the workstation's functionality beyond equipment transport.

Heavy-duty Colson casters provide mobility throughout venues and loading areas. With a truck-pack footprint of approximately 45" wide x 30" deep, the workstation is designed to integrate efficiently into touring equipment packages.

This project demonstrates LM Cases' ability to engineer specialized touring workstations that combine equipment protection, operational accessibility, and integrated infrastructure. By consolidating multiple printers, networking equipment, power connections, and supply storage into a single mobile system, the workstation provides a practical solution for production teams that require reliable on-site printing capabilities throughout a tour.