I’ve been using voice recognition software for about two years now. First IBM ViaVoice, then Dragon NaturallySpeaking. Now, I wouldn’t say my recognition is perfect (especially when writing fiction), but it has improved to the point where I can get a page’s worth of text down faster with Dragon than by typing (and I type…
Christmas Gifts for Computer Addicts
I know, I know, it’s only September, but some of the stores I’ve visited lately already have Christmas stuff up. So that got me thinking, if you’re going to give a computer-related gift anyway, why not choose something that encourages healthy computing habits? I know, that sounds like a cheesy gift. But, believe it or…
Home Office Lighting
Lighting is an important part of setting your home office up with proper ergonomicw in mind. Poor lighting can cause eye strain, glare, headaches, and other related maladies. It can also be an instigator for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Here are a few articles I scrounged with information on lighting your home office: Office Lighting…
Computers & Back Pain
Back pain from long hours at the computer used to be one of the items on my checklist of issues. Since buying my Herman Miller Aeron Chair, adjusting my workstation, and getting a break reminder program (Albion Stop Now), it’s thankfully become a non-issues for me. (Don’t worry, I still have other issues to complain…
Work at Home Folks More at Risk for Injuries?
A recent article about RSI type injuries amongst people who work from home struck pretty close. Of those who work from home the article says: “Though these workers have the freedom to set up their desks how they like, few think about office ergonomics until they are in pain.” In my experience (from my experience…)…
Vacation
My faithful readers (all two–gotta love relatives) may have noticed it’s been a while since my last post. I’ve been slurping Pina Coladas on the beaches of Cancun and decided to leave the computer at home. Figured my hands could use the break. I did take my Flextend gloves along though–can’t start slacking on that…
Flylight Light for Your Laptop
Well, I’ve heard of book lights, but the Flylight is the first light I’ve seen made specifically for your laptop. The flexible bendable Flylight is a small light put out by Kensington that is powered by the USB port of your laptop. Michael Mardings of TheCelebrityCafe.com mentions the Flylight along with several other Kensington products…
Negative Tilt
A lot of keyboards are higher in the back than the front. In actuality, a negative tilt–higher in the front than the back–may be more comfortable in the long run and possibly help prevent typing-related repetitive strain injuries (RSI). It may be worth trying if you’ve had trouble with your wrists in the past or…
Massaging Mouse Pad
A massaging mouse pad, now isn’t that an interesting idea? The site claims, “Massaging Mouse Pad was designed to effectively reduce and prevent the effects of Cumulative Trauma Disorders that can lead to reduced work efficiency and eventual loss of work, time and earnings.” I have no idea whether it would work (though I have…
Computer Lighting
Part of creating an ergonomically sound workspace is paying attention to lighting. Poor lighting can cause eye strain (yes, your mom was right) and aside from that, it’s nice to be able to see what you’re working on. You can get lights anywhere, but I came across a site that specializes in lighting for your…
Portable Footrest
I think a good adjustable ergonomic chair is the best seating solution, but if for some reason you’re not able to use one in your current workspace, and your feet aren’t resting flat on the ground, you may want to consider getting a foot rest. I came across a site that sells portable footrests (I…
Gateway M275XL Windows XP Tablet
Gateway M275XL Windows XP Tablet: A laptop possessing not only built in voice-recognition abilities but the ability to swap mouse and keyboard for a pen? Cool. Cool not only because it’s a neat concept but because it gives those of us with a propensity for sore hands a chance to break away from relying totally…