Configurable DIY desk mount arm for camera or microphone

I designed this system because as a beginning streamer I needed to mount and position a lot of camera, lighting, and microphone gear. I was on a budget, and stuff on amazon was flimsy and expensive - it's painful to spend $400 on a bunch of flimsy arms that don't do the job!

These parts can be used to customize a mounting system for nearly anything you need, using inexpensive but strong steel ¾" EMT (1) conduit for the struts.  EMT conduit is available at most hardware stores for about $1 per foot, and is more than strong enough for any photographic equipment. With bolts, pipe, and filament the entire cost of the pictured camera arm is less than $15 and it is MUCH stronger and more secure than most inexpensive (i.e. Amazon/Aliexpress) offerings.

Instructions

Filament

I recommend printing these in PETG, except for the optional soft-jaw pads and pipe end-caps, which should be printed in TPU. PLA should work fine as well, but may not be as durable.

Print Settings

I recommend supports ON for the desk clamp and hand knob, and off for the other models. The Camera Mount Part B may require supports on some printers or filaments depending on bridging capability.

Otherwise, typical 0.2mm layer settings for PETG or PLA on your printer should be fine.

Complete up-to-date instructions are maintained here:

This includes what hardware you need to buy, assembly diagrams, etc.

https://bit.ly/IE-Camera-Arm-Docs

Pre-printed kits available at

https://inventorevan.etsy.com

Assembly animations and other info 

Can be found at my website https://www.inventorevan.com/support-rigging

My plan is to expand this to a whole line of inter-compatible tools for content creators and makers, with a mix of free and premium model files. 

Feel like supporting me? 

This is a free model!  Tips are never required, but always appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/inventorevan

Footnotes:

(1) EMT = “Electro-metallic tubing” and is manufactured for encasing electrical wires outdoors.  While not originally designed for structural purposes, it is plenty strong for uses like this, and is inexpensive.

Version History / Changelog:

v1.1 - April 25 2024

• Added pipe endcap model
• Revised desk clamp to close properly on 3/4" or 19mm desktops
• Made desk clamp underside surfaces level for better surface quality and easier support removal
• Added TPU Soft Jaw Pad accidentally omitted from previous version
• Revised TPU Soft Jaw Pad to fit
• Added "tread" to TPU soft jaw pad for better grip
• Added print settings to description
• No changes to knob, pipe coupler, or camera mount
• Added .step files for most components
   

v1.0 - April 11 2024

• First upload