Introduction

A mouse pad, a surge suppressor and floppy disks (or other removable disks) are essential computer accessories. The need for other accessories depends on your personal taste, physical needs, and desired desktop arrangement.

Step One

Buy a mouse pad with a durable, anti-peel, anti-static surface.

Step Two

Choose a mouse pad size that fits your desk and allows enough mouse movement for the types of software you and your family will use. Consider mouse pads with built-in wrist support for comfort and prevention of repetitive stress conditions. Some wrist supports are backed with Velcro, allowing you to remove them if you like.

Step Three

Get a wrist rest to use in front of your keyboard if it will add to your comfort. (If you type a lot, you will probably want one.)

Step Four

Read "How to Buy a Surge Suppressor" to learn the buying considerations for those. You must buy a surge suppressor.

Step Five

Get a 10-pack of name-brand floppy disks for a few dollars. Get Zip disks or recordable CDs if your computer has a built-in Zip or CD-R drive.

Step Six

Get a set of replacement printer cartridges to have on hand before you run out of ink.

Step Seven

Buy paper for your printer.

Step Eight

Consider storage boxes for removable disks. Get jewel boxes or cases with soft, protective backings to store CDs.

Step Nine

Get cleaning supplies such as compressed air and Endust for Electronics or a non-abrasive household cleaning fluid suitable for cleaning plastic.

Step Ten

Get a steel-framed or under-desk keyboard tray if your desk lacks a comfortable place to use your keyboard.

Step Eleven

Consider accessories that will improve your efficiency, such as a monitor clip or easel to hold paper.

Step Twelve

Consider accessories that might be necessitated by your physical setup, such as a longer telephone cable.