Computer Accessories – Part Two
The previous article looked at some computer 'accessories' that, although
often overlooked, are nonetheless essential components of every
computer. This article will look at some of the true accessories
– useful but not essential.
Many of these accessories also exist in wireless versions.
Wireless mice and keyboards are widely available. They are very
convenient – no more manoeuvring the mouse wire around the other
objects on your desk.
You can even set up a wireless network in your home that allows all
the computers to 'talk' together and share resources such as printers
and Internet connections. If you want to go the full wireless
route, you can also get wireless printers and scanners. Although
primarily intended for office environments, they also offer convenience
for home computer users.
Printers, Scanners and Copiers
Printers are very practical devices for most people. They can
be used for printing everything from documents to photographs.
The two major types of printers are inkjet and laser. Laser
printers are more expensive than inkjets but provide a higher quality
printout that does not smear if the paper gets wet.
Inkjet printers are available for as little as $30 while laser printers start at about $80.
Scanners allow you to 'photograph' documents and even objects.
They are most commonly used for scanning images and written documents
into the computer, but can also be used to take pictures of
three-dimensional objects.
Most scanners are flatbed devices which sit on a desktop.
Scanning a document or object gives you a digital image which can be
further edited in the computer. If you scan a text document, the
digital image can be converted to computer text which can then be
edited and stored as a text file.
Decent quality color scanners are available at about $100.
Rather than getting a separate printer and scanner, consider getting
a unit that combines both functions and adds in a copier and fax as
well. These remarkable machines save money (4 units in one for
about $150) and reduce the amount of space required in your home
office.
Gaming Devices
Games are a big part of the computing world and are often on the
cutting edge of computer technology. Games often require
specialized input devices such as steering wheels, joysticks and game
pads. Even if they are not essential to the game they can greatly
enhance the reality and enjoyment of computer gaming.
Basic gaming devices are available at about $10 while specialized units can cost more than $400.
TV Adapters
Computers are gradually taking the place of traditional
entertainment devices such as stereo systems and video players.
Home theatre systems can be constructed around a computer for viewing
DVDs and listening to DVD audio. Computers can also be connected
to television sets for viewing movies or recording television shows.
Many video cards have optional connectors for allowing the computer
output to be seen on a TV set. External devices are also
available which allow you to watch regular TV shows on a computer
monitor. They can be connected to cable TV and used to record TV
shows, replacing the old VCR.
Memory Card Readers
Many modern devices such as digital cameras and PDAs use memory
cards to store their data. The data can be easily transferred to
a computer by using a memory card reader. For maximum convenience
look for memory card readers that can read multiple formats and plug
into a USB port. Most card readers are about $20 or $30.
And more...
These two articles have touched on some of the most popular
peripheral devices available for home computers. It is by no
means a complete list, though. You can also get webcams for live
video over the Internet, speakers for listening to music, telephones
for free long distance calls, and fax modems for sending
documents. Other accessories include projectors which allow a
roomful of people to see a computer screen, hardware for establishing a
home or office network, and storage devices for those who need to
regularly backup their computer data.
When it comes to computing the sky is the limit! No matter how
specialized your computing needs are you are sure to find devices that
meet your requirements.
