The release of the new Oculus Rift S VR headset presents a new challenge. Rather than sticking to HDMI for its video input, the headset uses a DisplayPort plug. That means HDMI extension cables are now obsolete for the purposes of VR, but all is not lost. Instead, this is an opportunity to take on a new project.
The headset requires one USB 3.0 port and one DisplayPort connection. There are no pre-made mounts available that accomodate both, so making one from scratch is the only option.
The first step is finding cables that work with the Rift S. Just about any USB 3.0 cord should do, but DisplayPort is a different story. This one does the trick according to a reviewer I found on Youtube. With the cables in hand, making the measurements is a relatively easy step two. Next comes the design phase.
A free online program called Tinkercad makes designing 3-D files incredibly easy. It can also export files in a variety of ways, including sending them directly to online repository Thingiverse. While prototyping though, it is easier to just send the file straight to a printer through Astroprint, which is also an option.
When designing a 3-D file for printing, it is important to allow some wiggle room in the measurements. That is because plastic shrinks a bit when it cools, making what are thought to be perfect measurements too small for their intended purpose. Tinkercad comes to the rescue again, making it simple to scale up a design one millimeter at a time.
Starting with draft prints allows for quick prototyping, each one getting closer and closer to a perfect fit. The most important thing is that the cables remain in place during plugging and unplugging. Subsequent iterations after the first include changes in the thickness of the front plate, a more snug fit for the cables themselves, and a tapered back end that will hopefully make it easier to install into a desk.
The file is now posted on Thingiverse and ready to download here. Hopefully someone gets some good use out of it, and if not, at least it was a fun learning experience.
First attempt was a bit small and the lip didn’t completely cover the rough edges left in the desk 
Final product fits snuggly, and hides all my poor woodworking skills
Now it’s your turn. Tell us about something you have created from scratch in the comments below.