Every day, millions of people across the United States and other parts of the world conduct business through their computer. In addition, thousands of homeowners and their families use computers as a source of entertainment. While computers are used by almost everyone in the developed world, it can be challenging to make sure that a computer monitor is set up correctly. The following guide provides simple tips and tricks on how to choose the right monitor for a desk.

Understanding the Different Types of Monitors

Computer Monitor

Over the past decade, computer monitor technology has changed in several significant ways. CRT monitors were commonly in use from 1984 to 2002. During this time, most people grew used to very large, bulky monitors.

However, modern monitors are usually powered by LCD or LED screens. This allows for a flat screen experience. Since flat screens can be installed in many different areas, it’s possible to use monitors on a desk with a restricted amount of free space.

Setting up a Monitor at One’s Desk

When setting up a monitor at one’s desk, it’s important to make sure that it is in a position that will reduce the risk of neck, back and eye strain. In many cases, it’s a good idea to have a monitor that is at least five degrees below one’s viewing horizon. By setting a monitor approximately six inches below one’s eyes, it’s possible to ensure that an individual won’t strain his or her eyes when looking at a monitor.
It’s a bad idea to set up a monitor at a height above one’s eyes. If a monitor is set up at a height above one’s eyes, light from a ceiling fixture may reflect back into an individual’s eyes. This can cause excessive amounts of eye strain and fatigue. In addition, excessive monitor reflections can also cause a headache in some people.

Further Is Better

If possible, it’s a good idea to make sure that there are at least two feet between an individual and his or her computer monitor. By setting up a distance of at least two feet between an individual and his or her monitor, it’s possible to reduce the risk of eye fatigue and strain over time. However, it’s important to make sure that a monitor isn’t positioned in a way that promotes poor posture. If a monitor is positioned too for away from an individual, he or she may be prompted to learn forward to see text on a computer monitor screen. This can promote a bad back posture over time and is not good for one’s health.

Setting up a Monitor for a Gaming PC

Some gamers prefer to use CRT monitors for their games. Since CRT monitors have higher refresh rates than flat screen monitors, they are a valuable tool in competitive gaming where every microsecond counts. However, there are some flat screen LED monitors that have very low five millisecond refresh rates. Click here to learn more about gaming monitors. A computer monitor plays an important role in the lives of many people. By choosing the right type of monitor for oneself, it’s possible to ensure that one will avoid eye strain, neck pain and back problems.

Brian Jensen works with Dell and has a passion for learning and writing about all things technology. To learn more about monitors visit dell.com. In his spare time he enjoys traveling, cooking and spending time with his family.