Turning Your Cubicle Into A High Tech Hub
As anyone who works in a cubicle knows, sitting in a tiny boxed-in space can make you feel claustrophobic, stuck and even unproductive. But anyone can make their cube a little more comfortable. CNET's Natali Del Conte traveled to the Bronx, New York, to technologically transform one woman's workspace.
When Del Conte arrived at a neighborhood resource center, she found a cubicle that could really use some help.
The cube belongs to a woman named Illectra. Many of her clients are tenants facing eviction in housing court. She helps them try to stay in their homes. Illectra was recently injured in a car accident and The Early Show wanted to surprise her.
Technology was not integrated into her workspace, making it difficult for her to stay organized. Her workspace was cramped and not ergonomic.
First, we gave her a larger screen - a Dell 24-inch UltraSharp monitor. This monitor is a CNET editors' choice because the picture quality is excellent.
Illectra's revamped cube also came with a Optimus Maximus keyboard. Each individual key is like a separate computer screen. You'll have to display some cash though - it costs $1,600.
We also keyed into clutter. A wireless mouse by Microsoft reduces the number of cables on your desk.
When Illectra wants to listen to music, she can now use the Logitech FreePulse wireless headphones. They are bluetooth headphones, so they transmit the music wirelessly between the computer and the earpieces. They're also really light and flexible and fit behind your head, so they don't mess up hairdoos.
We thought Illectra might appreciate a fashionable way to bring her work home with her in the event that she has to do that, so we got her a laptop bag by designer Theresa Kathryn.
For those days when you have to put in extra time at the office, she got a Brookstone single cup coffee maker. Illectra's coworkers told us that she loves her coffee - so now she won't have to leave her desk to get it. The stainless steel machine brews a fresh cup in just two minutes.
Spinning back and forth between the desk and the coffeemaker was not very ergonomic in Illectra's previous office chair, so we switched it out with the Aeron. This will be much better as she recovers from her injuries. It helps your posture because it supports your back.
And finally we got her a bubble calendar, which makes marking off the days of the year just a little more fun.
But gadgets and gear can only get you so far. We did a little organizing, which costs next to nothing. We put her files in colored folders, and also changed the position of her desk so that she has more room.
Illectra's reaction to her new workstation?
"Wow. Wow. Wow," she said. "This is beautiful. I love everything. And I like to listen to music. So I can put the headphones and I can listen without disturbing everyone else. It's the same space, but it has a lot more room. When a client comes in, it makes my space look like I'm more professional. I'm more organized.
Dell UltraSharp Monitor - $689.00
Features: Strong overall performance. Tried-and-true design is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Video connections galore. Delivers across the board in performance, design, and features. Excellent choice as an entertainment display and great for everyday Windows tasks. Flat panel display/TFT active matrix, 24 inch widescreen.
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Where to purchase: Dell Small Business
Logitech FreePulse Wireless Headphones - $72.15-$99.99
Features: Remarkably light, flexible, and resilient. Sound quality is decent overall with an emphasis on bass. Bluetooth transmitter can be used with any audio source that has a minijack headphone output. Exceptional design and value.
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Where to purchase: Dell Small Business, Newegg.com, J&R Music and Computer World
Optimus Maximus Keyboard - $1,600
Features: Innovative OLED-based keys. Completely customizable key layout. Powerful configuration software. Built-in SD card slot lets you transport custom layouts.
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Where to purchase: X-treme Geek, FrozenCPU.com
Theresa Kathryn Sophia Bag - $499.99
Features: Calf leather with patent accents. Satin brocade lining. Dimensions 17" x 13" x 6". Separate padded section for files/magazine/laptop (13" x 10" x 1"). Exterior panel conveniently slides onto luggage handles. Business card pocket, cell phone/pda pocket, pen holder, sunglass hook, key hook. Detachable adjustable shoulder strap.
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Microsoft Wireless Notebook Optical Mouse 3000 - $29.95
Features: High Definition Optical Technology. Six+ months battery life. Wireless freedom. Snap-in receiver. Comfortable in either hand. 3-Button Mouse.
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Aeron Chair - $749.00-949.00
Features: High-performance, long-term seating with a full complement of adjustments and innovative suspension. Ergonomic support next-generation breakthrough provides natural, custom-fitted lower-back support below the beltline for healthier posture and outstanding lower-back comfort. High and wide contoured back that takes weight off the lower spine. Easy on the arms. Wide, soft armrests are sloped in the front. Waterfall front edge. Reduces pressure under the thighs so circulation isn't restricted.
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Where to purchase: VitalityWeb.com, Healthyback.com