Any nerd or aspiring nerd ( even those Nerds In Denial ) has more than his or her share of gadgets. Technology can be a huge blessing, and aid us in simplifying our life. Too often though, an excess of electronic gadgetry can actually be a drag on productivity. Looking at, using, and maintaining too many gadgets simply takes up too much time. What to do? Simplify, of course.
Swiss army knives are your friend
If you have a computer at home, chances are you have a printer. And if you’re like many computer users, you probably also have a scanner, for digitizing important pictures & documents. Both gadgets have a function, both are important, and both take up space. You probably have to install separate software for each to work, with separate drivers. Cables have to connect each device to your computer, cluttering up your desk. You get the idea.
Find room in your budget, and replace your printer and scanner in one shot. Get an “All in one” device. Printer / scanner / copier / sometimes even an old-school fax. All in one device, not much bigger than your old printer. One install CD. One cable. One uncluttered desk. These devices have come way down in price, and generally run in the $120 – $350 range, depending on your choices. Me personally, I would choose a laser model ( printing costs go way, way down ).
Go Wireless to unclutter further
I would also choose one with WiFi wireless technology. Rather than hooking up to your computer via USB, cut the cord. No cables, other than the power cable. You can put the all-in-one device wherever it fits best, not where the cable reaches. And to make things even simpler, you can easily share this device with every computer on the network. How’s that for getting rid of clutter / confusion and simplifying your life? I’d say it’s well worth the small price of admission, to be rid of all that mess.