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.