Computer Peripherals

Monitors

A monitor is an essential computer peripheral for many desktop systems, with some workstations having multiple for increased productivity. When shopping for a computer monitor, you should check compatibility with the computer’s video card. If the video card is unable to output the monitor’s native resolution, you may have to upgrade the video card or system.

Keyboards

Together with mice, keyboards are essential computer input peripherals. Even tablets and touchscreen computers can benefit from having keyboards, particularly for tasks such as word processing. Aside from comfortable ergonomics, some beneficial features that you may want to consider include backlighting, touch functionality, wireless connectivity, programmable keys, and more.

Mice

A computer mouse is another computer input peripheral that can be used for hours on end, so it needs to be ergonomic. Otherwise, users may experience strain-related injuries over a long period of time. Other considerations include wireless connectivity, smaller dimensions for portability, or a trackball design.

Printers

Though some organizations are migrating to paperless environments, there are industries and commercial sectors that continue to utilize printers daily. For instance, printing receipts and sales orders is sometimes required when working with clients and customers.

There are two main types of printers, laser and inkjet. The benefits of a laser printer include fast print speeds, high color accuracy, and high page yields for toner cartridges. However, an inkjet printer can have a lower initial purchase cost compared to a laser printer.

Scanners

Scanners are essential computer peripherals for users that need to save physical documents and images digitally for editing and archiving. There are two main types of scanners to choose from, flatbed and document-fed.

If your staff mostly scans paper media, document scanners are ideal. But for larger items such as books and magazines, you will need a flatbed scanner.