As an IT Professional and Cyber Security expert, I don't mind computer cables. For me on some days, chaos is comfort, especially knowing all of those cables serve the purpose of keeping me connected to my devices and gadgets. However, from my time spent in the field helping homes and businesses tackle tech issues, I know computer cables are the bane of most of your lives. I get it. They aren't clean-looking. They mess up your home aesthetic and they are a hazard. I mean, who hasn't tripped over that cluster of cables lurking and tugging at your feet. I always believe with technology, where there is a will, there is a way to get tasks done. You may not believe it, but there is a way you can calm the chaos and reduce those cables in your home or office. Here's what you need to know:
Untangling and organizing cables is a time-consuming and frustrating task, and the sheer number of cables required for a modern computer and technology setup is overwhelming. I'm going to show you how you can reduce that mess, but before you venture out into that mess of cables, take the time to label all of your cables before you start moving them around or even unplugging your devices. Sometimes, the best way to get everything organized is to unplug and detangle everything, so if you’re nervous about reconnecting it all, label everything first.
Moving forward, consider the following setup with your technology.
Go wireless with all of your devices. Wireless technology has come a long way as far as connecting your devices. This can be achieved in several ways. Let's start with your keyboard and mouse. Years ago, wireless keyboards and mice were a pain because you were always replacing batteries. Not anymore. You can expect to get two years or more out of the batteries powering those devices. Next, add wireless connectivity to your home and ensure you have strong wifi in every corner of your house. With most desktop and laptop computers coming installed with built-in wifi, now's the time. With most internet providers, routers, and range extenders, there's no way you shouldn't have a strong enough wireless connection to stream movies from your devices or Zoom calls.
Do you need to plug your printer into your devices? Wireless printers are everywhere and although you may not print a lot, it's helpful to have a wireless printer rather than an old-school printer. All-in-one devices that allow you to print and scan are the best because stuff just travels through the airwaves. I will caution you, one of the things that fail most in printers are their wireless capabilities. If the wifi in your printer fails, don't waste the cost of repair. List it on a marketplace service and sell it.
Do you need a printer at all? Document services such as Word and Adobe allow you to manipulate documents and send them on via email take out the equation of printing documents which we usually only use to sign documents. Invest in a document management service and you can keep all of your files electronic and not worry about having that bulky printer around. Do you have one because you scan documents? Well, there are smartphone apps that will allow you to scan hard copy documents and make them electronic.
Consider going with all-in-one computers. All-in-one desktop and laptop computers reduce many of the cables you need. Everything is stored in one device, so there is no need to worry about running power and monitor cables to a big CPU sitting under your feet. There's also the nice thing that all-in-one devices have wifi built in so there's no need to run ethernet cables to your computer or printer. A laptop is especially nice because you get complete freedom from cables other than to plug it in once in a while when it needs to recharge.
Get a desk that's designed to hide cables. There are many desks that are still designed to allow you to run cables through them. If your desk has grommets to pass the cables through, review the path necessary underneath which will help you determine the best place to mount your power strip and where the computer will sit on the floor or the desk.
Get a Cable Management system. If you have a lot of cables that need to be managed, look for raceways or cable trays that can be mounted on the underside of the desk.
Hopefully, this will give you tips to help you organize those messy computer cables. If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm always available.
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Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone.
Need computer or technology help? If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829.
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