In this fast-paced and technologically-advanced world, who still doesn’t have a home office? Freelancers and entrepreneurs have long started with a work-from-home setup. Several professionals transitioned to a home office in the past year. Those entering the workforce are looking to set up an efficient workspace in their homes this year.
You may think that a home-office only needs a computer, a printer, and an internet connection. In reality, these things are just the fundamentals. Many different components add efficiency to various home careers. However, there is no need to fret since you can find these items at your reliable, local computer store. Among various gadgets, here are the most essential:
- Solid Desktop Computer
A desktop computer is the centrepiece of your workstation. Individual contractors to small business owners need a computer to complete their work. Whether it’s for spreadsheets or photoshop, you can multitask easier with personal computers.
The most important components for a computer are a powerful graphics card and a high-resolution monitor. These items are necessary to produce high-end work, especially if your job is on the creative side. The standard nowadays is a 1080p monitor, but more demanding work can use a 4K monitor as long as the processing and storage requirements are met. Some occupations entail multi-monitor setups for faster work too. Just review the basics of desktop ergonomics, and you’re good to go!
- Versatile Laptop
If your work requires some travelling and being on-the-go, perhaps you need to invest in a laptop. Laptops generally have a larger memory space and RAM. These lightweight and mobile workstations enable you to work while in transit and from room to room. Thus, you will always have your important documents close by. Many professionals use both a desktop computer and a laptop to suit their flexible work schedules.
- Reliable Storage
A computer store offers a range of storage options, from portable external hard drives with about 1TB storage to NAS drives or servers with around 24TB capacity. The types of files you use and create will determine the storage you need. If you mostly deal with word files and spreadsheets, portable storage is a good option for you. For larger files like videos and photographs, you should go higher from the portable selections. Cloud storage is widely used nowadays, but they are mostly for sharing purposes. Having local storage is still essential to accommodate apps and processes on your computer.
- Efficient Printer and Scanner
Physical copies of your works and reports are inevitable for sharing and reviewing with others. Like computers, monitors, and storage, buying a trusty printer will depend on where or how often you’ll use it. Laser printers provide sharper and clearer images though a little bit more expensive. The more affordable inkjet printer can also provide legible results. For both printers, consider the maintenance cost of ink and toner supply.
Printers that come with scanners are the more efficient and economical choice. Scanners allow you to secure digital copies of otherwise plain paper documents. Nowadays, digital copies are necessary for safer and more assured transactions.
- Uninterruptible Power Supply
There is nothing more alarming than a sudden shutdown of your devices when you are at the height of your work. The Uninterruptible Power Supply or UPS safeguards your work from unexpected power fluctuations. When choosing a UPS, consider your desktop’s running capacity and how much time you need to safely shut it down. For a small home office setup, ten minutes is the average time.
Planning your workstation to have the essential gadgets results in more productive work in the long run. It is up to you to add extra tech components such as a personalised keyboard, projectors, docking stations, and more.
