Page 20 - IT Essentials And Data Recovery For Online Businesses
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About monitors: today’s standard is the 19”, flat screen LCD. Anything smaller will
cause eyestrain if used continually. Unfortunately, the prices on LCD screens go up
dramatically with every inch. That’s the bad news.
The good news is that like all technology, monitor prices have been dropping a
great deal. We are now seeing 22” LCD monitors on auction websites for less than
$350, and 19” monitors for a little over half that. Our advice is that you select the
largest monitor you can afford – your eyes will thank you for it.
Printer, Copier, FAX Machine
Today, you can get one machine that performs all of these functions. Sometimes
called an “all-in-one,” a printer-copier-FAX can run about $150 new. If you decide
to purchase a used one, you may find a perfectly functional device for as little as
$20 (more on this, later).
It should be pointed out that the copier function of these low-priced all-in-one
machines is intended for light duty. If you are planning on making a large number
of copies on a regular basis, you’ll be better off with something larger and more
durable. PC Magazine (http://www.pcmag.com) and Consumer Reports
(http://www.consumerreports.org) generally have good, reliable independent
reviews of the various brands and machines available that will help you make an
informed choice.
Other I.T. Options
As mentioned earlier, laptops have the advantage of portability. However, unless
you’re planning to be on the road or out in the field a great deal of the time, it’s
probably not the best choice.
