One of COVID-19’s most disruptive effects was forcing millions of workers, teachers, and students in many countries to stay at home. Accordingly, this unique situation gave rise to new technologies and a way of life for these affected individuals, a situation called by many as The New Normal.
Under it, working-class people and learners had to be productive remotely, using both hardware and software to take care of their deliverables. If you’re among the countless individuals who are currently undergoing remote work or learning, there are must-have items that you need to invest in.
Here are six remote work and study essentials that you should have soon:
1. A personal computer
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While there are smartphones and tablets that can do pretty much the most basic tasks required for remote work and distance learning or teaching, a personal computer is still the ideal device to have for such needs. This should be a non-issue as there are plenty of shops that can build and set up a laptop or desktop according to your desired specifications.
You can pretty much dictate just how well your personal computer would perform since you have the freedom to choose which operating system/software, memory/storage, and processor will be used if you opt for the custom build. With tablets and smartphones, you’re limited to what features the manufacturer decides to include. Ultimately, having your desired specifications on your personal computer will go a long way in making you productive while working or learning remotely.
2. A stable internet connection
If you don’t have one yet, then you really have to invest soon in a reliable internet connection. Remote work and learning both require a stable internet connection, especially when you do regular video calls and online presentations.
Zoom, Skype, Webex, and other web communication and collaboration tools all consume data and require reliable internet for smooth functioning. It should be part of your monthly budget as it is considered an essential expense during the pandemic.
3. Noise-canceling headphones
Whether you prefer a Bluetooth or a wired headphone, it should have an active noise-canceling feature built into it. If you’re working from a place that has lots of noise that could affect how other collaborators hear what you’re saying, then this is one feature that should be in your headphone.
You can find plenty of affordable, great-quality noise-canceling headphones on eBay and other e-commerce sites, so getting the one that best suits your budget and needs should be a breeze. Keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be branded; as long as it gets the job done, then it’s a great buy.
4. A conducive work/study area
you can work on your tasks quietly and comfortably. Among other considerations, your work or study area has to be well-lit, has proper ventilation, with ergonomic furniture pieces such as a table and chair, and ample noise insulation or soundproofing.
Keep in mind that where you work or study has physical, emotional, and cognitive effects on your part. If you’re working in an environment with less-than-acceptable conduciveness, then you’re more likely to perform poorly.
5. A smartphone or tablet
For those tasks that do not require you to stand in front of a large screen, a smartphone or a tablet will more than do the trick for you. Tablets and smartphones are generally cheaper than personal computers, provided that you’re not comparing a top-on-the-line mobile device to a personal computer with mediocre specifications. Additionally, mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones are highly portable and space-saving, so you can easily carry them around with you in areas with limited elbow room.
6. Surge protector
If you’re running several devices (laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones) and they are plugged simultaneously into your electrical system, you run the risk of getting them damaged if a power surge occurs. This is a situation that is essentially out of your control but is one where you can mitigate the risks and potential effects.
By getting a surge protector for your home, you won’t have to worry about spikes, surges, and lighting while your devices are plugged in. This is a worthwhile remote work and learning investment that you can benefit from with or without a pandemic.
Working or learning from home doesn’t have to be hard or unappealing on your end. With these essential items, you can expect to be comfortable enough to work at an optimal level and deliver the results that you need.