Category Archives: Products

Upgrade your internet with a Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter

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You have the latest Wi-Fi router and the fastest broadband speed, but you still cannot get that video call to run smoothly on your PC. A Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter for your PC may just be the missing piece of the puzzle. This guide will look at why you might have an issue, what you need to understand about Wi-Fi 6 and how to solve your Wi-Fi woes.

Wi-Fi 6 is the latest Wi-Fi standard otherwise known as 802.11ax. Wi-Fi 6 can improve you connection speed by up to 40%, can handle 4 times as many connections and has increased data throughput. A Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter is a devise that lets you upgrade a PC style devise via a USB port to support Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and benefits.

WHY should I install a Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter?

We have a significant blur of home versus work. In all businesses, not just small businesses, more and more people are working from home. Working from home does not reduce the need for collaboration, and the norm is to use a video conferencing solution.  Video places high demands on our home/small office networks. Very simply, it is just like everyone turns the tap on, and the water pressure drops. Wi-Fi technology is constantly evolving to meet the high-speed networking required by video conferencing, high definition video watching, large file transfers and the connection of many devices like security cameras and connected light bulbs.

To understand the bigger picture of improving your internet, we suggest you read our sister publication GadgetGuy’s article on the subject. Learn how to set up a W-Fi network in our guide here.

WHAT do I need to understand about Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6 is like a motorway where extra lanes have been added in both directions, the speed limit has been increased, and it is safer to drive on it. Coupled with that, the congestion has been reduced.

There are many technical improvements to do all this, but for you, it will all just work better – But! For Wi-Fi 6 to work, your internet router and your client device (PC, smartphone, tablet etc.) must also support Wi-Fi 6. Wi-Fi being new, chances are Wi-Fi 6 is not on your PC or tablet yet. Thus you cannot take advantage of these enhanced features.  Your device will still work fine with a new Wi-Fi 6 router as they are backwards compatible.

HOW do I upgrade my network performance?

The simplest and cheapest solution is to connect an ethernet cable to your PC directly to your router. This will give you the best performance. However, you will hardly walk around the house with a tablet connected to a very long cable. In most cases, an ethernet cable in your home or office may not be practical, accessible, and installation costs excessive.

The better alternative to upgrading an older device is to purchase a Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter.  For just over $100, you are upgrading your computer, allowing complete freedom of movement with no extra cables. (you do need a Wi-Fi 6 router). The Wi-Fi 6 adapter simply plugs into a standard USB 3 port, and older USB 2 ports will not support the required data transfer speeds.

Wi-Fi 6 also supports the latest WPA3 security standard providing you 128-bit encryption, ensuring you protect the transfer of information within your wireless network.

HINTS

Note that a Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter could not be used with an Apple computer at the time of publication.

Small Business Answer used a D-Link AX3200 Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit router and a D-Link AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter to research this story.  A Wi-Fi 5 video conferencing issue previously solved utilising an ethernet cable was also solved using the Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter.

The D-Link AX1800 supports speeds up to 574Mbps 92.4GHz) + 1200 Mbps (5Ghz), exceeding any NBN connection speed readily available. The dongle is backward compatible with earlier Wi-Fi standards. It uses all the Wi-Fi 6 technologies to improve connectivity and connection. The WPA3 security standard is supported, and the AX delivers superior radio access efficiency. When first plugged in, an auto instal window allows you to load the appropriate driver to make the magic happen.

The D-Link AX3200 Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit router is available for under $300, allowing you to upgrade your network economically. Not only will you enjoy the speed and connectivity benefits of Wi-Fi 6 you will also benefit from the ability to expand your network using Mesh technology. A mesh satellite devise available at an additional cost will allow you to increase the range on your Wi-Fi within your premise. Whilst will enable you to have a single network domain giving you the best signal strength while seamlessly handing the transmission from one mesh devise to the next. The router has 1 Gigabit Ethernet port in from your NBN modem or ISP supplied router and 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports out to connected devices like a NAS, printer or connected PC. Those of you using this router at home can assign profile based parental controls to individually block websites, set schedules for access, and turn off a specific devices Wi-Fi.

SUMMARY – Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter

A Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter will allow you to, when coupled with a Wi-Fi 6 router, take advantage of the latest standards to improve your wireless internet connectivity, speed, capacity and security. The USB adapter is simple to set up, plugging into an available USB port.

Ink tank vs ink cartridge printers

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If you are setting up a small business, chances are you will need a printer. We live in an online world, but every so often, you will need to print a shipping label, a paper invoice or maybe something for the kids. You can buy an inkjet printer from Officeworks for around $40, so why would you spend upwards of $300 on an inkjet printer with a tank? This guide will look at Ink tank vs ink cartridge printers and help you decide which is better in the long run.

An inkjet printer works by spraying ink onto a piece of paper to form text or images. A inkjet cartridge printer uses cartridges to store the ink which need replacing when ink runs out.  A inkjet printer with an ink tank has a refillable reservoir of ink which can be refilled from a bottle.

WHY should I buy an ink tank printer?

In this guide, we will purely look at the difference between a tank and a cartridge ink tank printer.  Read our guide to buying a small business printer to understand other variables.
This comparison comes down to the cost of printing over time.

An ink tank printer will produce approximately 6,000 to 7,000 pages per bottle of ink. A cartridge printer may print as few as 100 pages per cartridge. There is, of course, many variables’ ink bottle and cartridge sizes and the amount of ink required on each page.  For example, a half-page of text will use less ink than a page covered in pictures.

We will use today’s pricing from the Officeworks website of a cheap cartridge printer and a cheap ink tank printer for our comparison.

HP Cartridge printer cost: $38
Black cartridge $30.88 yields 120 sheets
Tricolour cartridge $30.88 100 sheets yields 100 sheets

Epson EcoTank printer $399
Black ink bottle $29 yields 6700 pages
Yellow ink bottle $29 yields 6200 pages
Blue ink Bottle $29 yields 6200 pages
Red ink bottle $29 yields 6200 pages

Printing cost of black and white:

Cost to print 6700 pages
Cartridge printer: $1698
Ink tank printer: $399

Cost to print 2 pages a day for 3 years. 2190 pages
Cartridge printer: approx. $555
Ink tank printer: $399

Printing cost of colour:

Cost to print 6200 pages
Cartridge printer: approx. $7200
Ink tank printer: $399

Cost to print 2 pages a day for 3 years. 2190 pages
Cartridge printer: approx. $2520
Ink tank printer $399

WHAT should you know about inkjet printers?

Inkjet printers will allow you to print in black and white or colour at a resolution of at least 300 dots per inch.

Brand new inkjet cartridge printers tend to ship with smaller ink cartridges meaning you will be buying a new cartridge sooner than you think. Ink tank printers tend to ship with full bottles of ink.

An inkjet is better at printing photos, are slower than laser printers, and is not good for large volume printing.

Ink tanks printers will use the ink specially formulated for that printer. Cartridge units will accept 3rd party manufacturers ink. Thus, quality may be slightly higher from the ink tank.

Ink tank printers require far less maintenance.

HOW do I decide which printer to buy?

Please refer to Small Business Answers guide to buying a printer.
Here you will find the pros and cons of the different types and understand all the other options available to help you make the right decision.

If you want a cheap printer for a really small volume of printing the cheap cartridge printer will get you out of trouble. But if you plan to print more than 1000 pages (1 page a day over 3 years or 2 reams of paper) over the printer’s life in black and white, then an ink tank printer will definitely save you money in the long run. If you are printing in colour, this breakeven point will drop to around 300 pages.

HINTS

Most printers allow you to print in eco mode, reducing the amount of ink you use on each page.  This is great for printing draft documents, with the downside being the tone is not as black, and colours are washed out.  It will, however, save you ink.

Small Business answers have been testing an Epson ET-2850. This all in one printer allows you to print, scan and copy from a PC(and Apple) or smartphone. It comes with a small1.44 inch LCD display that will enable you to do basic settings on the printer itself.  We liked the automatic 2 sided printing and the smartphone app control. This unit does not have a document feeder like higher models in the Epson range. Still, this unit would be more than adequate for most small businesses with its 100-page paper capacity.

Epson uses heat-free technology in their print heats which save electricity and is good for the environment.

Suppose pouring ink from a bottle terrifies you. In that case, Epson has a drip-free nozzle and refillable nozzle system in their ink bottles which makes the refill process painless. Each bottle is also designed so you cannot pour the wrong colour ink into the wrong reservoir.

SUMMARY – Ink tank vs ink cartridge printers

Buying a printer is not as simple as purchasing the cheapest model. When you look at the cost of printing over time, an inkjet printer with an ink tank definitely has a price advantage over an inkjet cartridge printer.

An ink tank style printer will have less maintenance and should give you years of service before you have to head out to buy new ink (depending on your print volume)

Access files remotely – anywhere anytime

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When you are on your work or home network, it is very easy to share files between PC’s but what happens if you want remote access to files?. This guide will look at why you would access files remotely and understand what is possible and how we can set up a solution to access files remotely.

Remote file access or remote file sharing is the ability to access your computer files anywhere and anytime you are connected to the internet.

WHY would I want to access files remotely?

The requirement to work from anywhere is not something new. However, recent events have certainly accelerated the need to be able to work from home. The modern business world is all about collaboration and sharing information, and having files just on 1 PC goes against that. It also creates a security and continuity issue. The sharing of files and remote access ensures workers are always up to date and can immediately respond to business needs. Typical drivers for remote access include:

  • business travel
  • working from the client’s premise
  • working from home
  • work whilst commuting – meaning you get home sooner.

Remote access to files creates a security issue. If you can access those files remotely, who else might also be able to access those confidential files?

WHAT do I need to understand about remote file access?

If you are unfamiliar with a network or file sharing, read our guides on a computer network for small offices and storage and sharing files.

There are many ways to access files remotely using the internet.  The real challenge is to ensure that your files are kept secure, and the solution is easy to use.

There are two key methods to secure those files: to encrypt the individual file or create a secure connection for traffic between your office and your PC over the internet.

The technologies to secure files are:
  • To protect the individual file by encryption or the use of a secure sockets layer (SSL). This essentially means if someone could get a copy of your file, they could not read it.
  • Creating a secure connection to your office is most likely done with a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPN uses the internet to create a secure pipe between your device and the business files/systems as if you were actually sitting in your office.

Keep in mind that hackers continue to exploit security vulnerabilities. Your choice of a remote access solution should be influenced by the importance of the data that can be accessed remotely. E.g. a customer quote letter falling into the wrong hands is an inconvenience versus the design plans for a new widget which could send you broke. Always ensure your tech devices have the latest security patches loaded.

A scenario can also be created where you cannot download a file. Still, through a secure link, you can view the information whilst you are connected only.

HOW do I access my files remotely?

The key factor here is the place/devise where your files are stored must be available all the time. Thus if the files were stored at the office on a PC and that PC was turned off when someone went home, you can no longer access those files.

For this reason, we recommend that you have a dedicated solution specifically designed to share files. Also, see our guide to file sharing where we compare Cloud vs NAS. The three options you should consider are:

Cloud Storage Solutions

You will be familiar with Google Drive, iCloud, Microsoft One Drive, DropBox etc. All of these allow you to set a special folder on your PC that automatically synchronise files between your PC and the cloud storage location. Any authorised users can also share this file to their PC, tablet or smartphone. Note you are relying on an outside company to store and protect your file. The file within your business is only a copy. Being a cloud service, you will pay a monthly subscription based on the amount of storage you require

Networked Attached Storage NAS

A NAS Device allows you to share files and backup files and computers within your office (or home) network. In addition, it can also allow those files to be shared anywhere anytime, just like the cloud storage solutions. The key difference is that you have full control and responsibility for your own files rather than risk being stored in another country like cloud solutions. NAS boxes are simple to set up and maintain and offer the flexibility to provide additional functionality and customisation for those more technical. A NAS must be purchased upfront, with solutions being available from Officeworks or electrical retailers. We strongly suggest you buy a system capable of using 2 or more hard drives.

Router

This solution is a little more complicated, and we only recommend it to those more technical. Assuming your router supports this functionality, you can attach a hard drive to the router. You can share files from that hard disk both within your network and out to authorised people via the internet through setting changes. This is a cost-effective way to access files remotely but is not a dedicated solution like the above two, which will be simpler.

HINTS

It is possible to share a single file with a 3rd party outside of your business on a one-off basis. This is commonly used to transfer files too big for email.

Small Business Answers has remote access to files vis a Synology DiskStation DS420+ NAS. This access can be achieved via two methods. The Synology NAS can be used as your own private cloud with 100% data ownership and zero additional cost. Like the cloud solutions mentioned above, you download an application called Synology drive, which sets a folder up on your desktop that seamlessly synchronises files to your NAS. These same files can also be accessed from a web browser, smartphone App or another Synology NAS. The second method is to use the Synology File station to customise access permissions to optimise security to share your files across multiple platforms. Whether it’s Windows, macOS, and Linux computers or mobile devices.  File station will also allow you to have a hybrid storage configuration allowing duplication with public clouds like Google drive.

Synology provides a handy NAS selector to help you determine which model is right for you.

SUMMARY – remote file sharing

The ability to collaborate and have the most up to date information via a shared file saves time and effort in this fast-moving connected world. A shared file is also one that is backed up in the event of a disaster.

Securing files that are shared is a critical consideration ensuring non authorised people cannot read what is contained.

The two simplest methods of remote file sharing are investing in a NAS solution or subscribing to a cloud storage solution.

Printer – which one for a small office?

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After buying a computer for your business, probably the next thing you will buy is a printer.  A printer can be bought for as little as $35 but is unlikely to meet your needs.  Maybe you have had a printer before and you just don’t know what you should consider next. This guide will help you understand your options and help you make your decision.

A printer is a machine that will recreate an image or text from a computer, usually on paper.

WHY do I need a printer?

You will need a printer if you want to reproduce a document or print an invoice or maybe even produce a brochure or photograph.

Yes, you will need a printer but really the question is do you need a colour printer?

If you plan to print or photocopy a lot it may be worth considering a Photocopier.  See our essential guide on photocopiers.

WHAT type of printers are there?

The first thing you need to know is that there are mono (black and white) printers or colour printers. 

  • A mono printer will allow you to print in shades of black and white. They can be cheaper and possibly smaller.
  • A colour printer will also print in mono if you wish it to but any printing in colour can use up to 50% more ink than mono driving up the cost per page.
There are 2 dominant printing technologies:
  • Inkjet
    • Advantage
      • Cost less
      • Better photo-quality printing
      • Smaller in size
      • More versatility
    • Disadvantages
      • Ink costs more (cartridge not ink tanks)
      • More cleaning required
  • Laser
    • Advantages
      • Better suited for larger print volumes
      • Unlike inkjet, it does not use print heads which can clog
      • Faster printing
      • Less maintenance
    • Disadvantages
      • No photo printing only standard paper
      • Colour quality can be lower
      • Tend to use more electricity
Is a printer just a printer? No, it can be more and will be cheaper than buying separate devices:
  • Single function or Standard is just a printer
  • Multi-function or all-in-one is a printer, scanner, and copier.  Some models may even allow you to send a fax. They are typically more expensive.
Share a printer

You can connect a printer directly to your PC but if you will share with others you can do one of the following if the printer supports it: (Be sure to see our essential network guide)

  • Wi-Fi – connected by Wi-Fi to a wireless router
  • Ethernet – connect by ethernet to a router
  • Smartphone – you can print from your phone via Apple Airprint  or Google cloudprint
  • Memory card – physically insert a USB stick or memory card containing the documents you want printed
If your business has a requirement there are specialist printers including:
  • Large format printers – prints on very large rolls of paper to produce CAD drawings or posters
  • 3D printers – uses plastic to create 3D models
  • Photo printers – designed especially to produce high volume quality photos

HOW should you choose a printer?

This will be based on your expected needs and you should consider:

Cost of ownership – This is represented as a cost per page.  Most vendors (manufacturers) will quote a price, which will enable you to compare models.

Cost of ink – the cost of ink and toner will be most likely be more than the cost of buying the printer so it is key to making a wise decision.  A cheap one is most likely to have the most expensive ink. Ink Jet printers with ink tanks have changed the equation with reasonably priced ink bottles that can refill an ink tank. The counter to this is the ink tank style printers are more expensive upfront to purchase.

Quality of printing – An indication of quality is a measurement called DPI or Dots per Inch. This allows documents to be printed with a very fine resolution.

Speed – If all you print is 1 to 2-page documents speed is not really a concern. If you print large documents then speed is important and you should probably consider a laser printer. Note that speed does depend on the type of document you print with a text document being faster than a full-page colour picture.

How much you print – each printer will have a monthly duty cycle which refers to how many pages a month a printer is designed to print.  This is not speed but a measure of how long the printer will last based on the volume it prints a month.

Paper size – A4 paper size is the standard in Australia for printing.  If you need to vary from this the cost of the printer will go up.  The next most common sizes are A3 which is 2 x A4 and A2 which is half A4.

Manual feed – makes it easy to print envelopes or letterhead

Tray size – This tray holds the blank paper.  The more you print the larger tray you should have.  Multiple trays allow different size papers or letterheads to be loaded to save a time consuming manual feed.

Multifunction – Great to have if you need to scan or print as discussed above.

OCR – Optical Character Recognition. A neat function that allows a document to be scanned and turned into a text document that can be edited.

Network – Make sure your model choice will connect to your network if you have one.

Service and Support – Most printers do not get repaired unless you have an expensive one.  However, support is important and the vendors’ commitment to supporting printer firmware (software) and its compatibility with PC software changes.  It is not unheard of for a printer to stop working until a vendor releases new firmware.

HINTS

In your print properties (setting from the print pop up box) you can select toner saver or draft, this will reduce the quality of the print but save you money on ink or toner.

Printing double-sided or duplex will not only save you paper but save on storage if you are printing a document to file.

Look for a solution with either an ink tank for inkjet or high yield toner for laser printers which will reduce your printing costs per page.

Small Business Answers has recently trialled the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 which use 6 colour inks compared to the standard 4 colours. The six inks mean higher quality photos can be printed with a more accurate colour range. One set of ink bottles can print up to 2,300 high-quality photos or 6,700 pages in black and white or 6,200 pages at a lower cost per page. We found the photo quality to be excellent whilst also being able to do your normal office printing. Assuming you want to print photos and your printing volume is not enormous this is an excellent choice. The unit does not have a large paper feeder which would limit you if you print high volumes.

SUMMARY – Quality Printer

A printer is a necessary tool for small businesses. A cheap one may cost you more because of ink. Consider a quality brand that is designed to handle the volume of printing you plan to do allowing for growth.  Colour and multifunction will increase the price but give you more flexibility.

Our sister publication GadgetGuy has reviews on suitable entry-level printers.

Wired security camera for 24/7 surveillance

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Wired security cameras have been around for a very long time. Once, they were only for those with deep pockets and lots of technical know-how. Consumerism has changed everything, and an indoor wireless camera can be purchased at your tech retailer from $50. This guide will look at why you would use video surveillance, what you need to know and how to make your purchase decision.

A wired security camera system is one that not only has a physical cable connection but also a recording devise onsite. There will be one or more cameras and the system can be connected to the internet to review remotely.

WHY should you consider a security camera?

 To secure your business or home business where once you may have installed a burglar alarm, security cameras will do this and more.

Benefits of a wired security camera
  1. Deterring crime- A thief does not want to be caught on video
  2. Video proof – If an incident does occur, footage can be reviewed, and police can use images
  3. Check up on the business remotely – Is the store busy at the moment
  4. Employee safety- Watch and review staff member behaviour to ensure safety procedures are being followed.
  5. Insurance claims – Camera footage can validate a claim, or the camera may lead to a discount
  6. 24/7 recording – A mains power supply and onsite large storage device means all cameras can record all the time, providing you with a complete record.
  7. Realtime large-screen viewing of camera footage. Onsite you can have a large monitor versus a small smartphone screen.

WHAT security camera technology do I need to understand?

There are wireless and wired camera solutions. A wireless camera solution uses a wireless network solution such as your Wi-Fi network to transport the video. A wireless camera may also have a battery enabling it to be completely wireless.

Advantages of a wired camera over wireless
  • No batteries to keep charged
  • No monthly fees for cloud storage are required as you have your own onsite storage
  • Higher quality and  more reliable video versus using Wi-Fi to transport
  • Cables are less likely to be hacked versus a Wi-Fi signal
  • A cable length can reach far further than a wireless (Wi-Fi) signal

Disadvantages include installing the cable and power outages (blackouts).

There are two types of modern wired security camera systems. A DVR (Digital Video Recorder) requires an analogue coaxial video cable and a power cable. The newer NVR (Networked Video Recorder) systems use a single ethernet cable to power the camera and carry a digital video signal. Both DVRs and NVRs can connect to the internet via an ethernet cable. NVRs have the latest technology and are capable of recording at a higher video quality. NVRs also incorporate features found in wireless camera solutions, such as two-way talk and smart detection. An NVR with its extra features will be more expensive than a DVR.

HOW do I use and choose a wired security camera?

NVR/DVR setup

The setup of a wired surveillance system is very simple, except for running cables.

  1. Select a location for the video recorder box (DVR/NVR) that has power and can accommodate a TV or monitor with an HDMI cable. For remote monitoring, you will also need internet access.
  2. Select suitable locations for your camera, considering whether the camera can capture what you want to record.
  3. Run the cables between the cameras and the video recorder. You may need longer cables or extensions and the assistance of an electrician. Consider the aesthetics and the vulnerability of an exposed cable being cut.
  4. Connect your monitor via HDMI cable and the mouse to the DVR/NVR.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to customise settings (such as alerts) and enable remote viewing from a smartphone app.
  6. Familiarise yourself with recording settings and how you can playback live video as well as recorded video.
Features you should consider when buying a wired security camera:

Outdoor or indoor– If the camera is located outside, it will need to be weatherproof
Camera types – There are two common types of cameras – Dome and Bullet. Both can be mounted in most locations. Bullet are normally better for long-range video, whilst dome tends to have a wider viewing angle and are suited to shorter distances.  Optical zoom and pan and tilt functionality which is more expensive, will give you better live viewing options.
Resolution of the camera – The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the picture and the greater ability to zoom in digitally to see details such as faces and number plates. You can choose between Standard Definition (SD), High definition (Full HD) or Ultra High Definition (UHD or 4K). Each resolution jump is 4 x the number of pixels or dots.
Viewing angle of the camera – This refers to the field of vision of a camera. The larger the number represented in degrees means the camera will record a wider view in tight locations. A camera with a 90-degree viewing angle would see everything 45 degrees left and right from the centre.
Low light – Also referred to as night vision, is the cameras ability to see in the dark.  Most modern cameras will support this but look for the distance from the camera it will see. E.g. 10m
Wireless camera’s – Some fixed camera solutions will also allow wireless cameras to be included and recorded. This has some disadvantages, as discussed above but has a massive installation advantage.
Technology to stop false alerts – Normally based on measuring a heat source in the camera view, this technology is critical in reducing false alerts, especially on a windy night with moving vegetation. Alerts can also be programmed only to occur at certain times, like outside business hours.
Other –  various other features may be attractive to you like Siren, strobe, 2-way audio or a spotlight
DVR or NVR – As discussed above
Channels – This expressed as 4 channel DVR means you can connect a maximum of 4 cameras. Ensure you buy a DVR/NVR with enough channels for the cameras you require and also consider any future expansion requirements
Hard drive – The DVR/NVR has an internal hard drive where all the video is stored. The larger the hard drive, the more video can be recorded, often also references as hours or days of recording. Note a higher resolution camera will require more hard drive space to record the same time frame of footage
User interface of recorder (DVR/NVR) – A brochure or the marketing on a box can make a product sound very attractive. However, nothing beats doing some research to see how the user interface works and is it simple to use and will it meet your needs? Research on YouTube may prove to be useful. Display options can include rotating single images, multiple cameras at once, and 4 or 9 camera views. More advanced will be a larger image with small pictures to one side.
Remote functionality of an App – A smartphone app will allow you to receive security alerts as well as provide live views from anywhere with internet coverage.  This can potentially remove the need for expensive security monitoring with you having the ability to review and call the police if necessary. Multiple people can be given access to share the responsibility.
Solution price and bundle options – Once you choose a brand, you will have to stay with that brand unless you start again.  Price will increase with functionality, and we do recommend you go with a known brand.  Once you know the number of cameras you need, you may buy a bundle to suit. Different compatible camera types can be purchased and added separately, assuming you have available channels.

HINTS

Some wired cameras will operate independently with an internet ethernet cable and no NVR. An SD card installed in the camera will capture images, as can a cloud-based backup.

As a point of comparison, we have reviewed a DVR and NVR from two well-known brands:

Swann Enforcer Security System 4 channel DVR. This Ful HD analogue recorder comes with 4 cameras and a 1TB hard drive. That 1TB drive is quoted as being able to store up to 6 months of surveillance videos giving you plenty of time to go back to review footage. The weatherproof cameras have a 90-degree viewing angle and can see 10m into the dark. By using the Swann Security app, users can access live and recorded footage from multiple Swann cameras (from wired systems to Wi-Fi standalone cameras to doorbell) and receive alerts when activity is detected. We really like the feature that the cameras have a built-in spotlight and police like red and blue flashing lights that can be activated. This is a great all in one package for a simple surveillance setup.  https://www.swann.com/au/swdvk-446804sl $599.95. Swann has a range of other models including NVR capable of supporting 8 cameras.

Guardian App Cam 4KNVR8 8 channel NVR. This is a 4K digital recorder with a 2TB hard drive. It does not come with any cameras; instead, you can add up to 8 fixed or wireless cameras. When used with the App Cam solo smartphone/tablet app, you can do two-way audio and receive alerts if a vehicle or person enters the field of view.  https://uniden.com.au/product/guardian-app-cam-4knvr8/  $499.95
The recommended cameras are available in both a bullet or dome and have 87-degree viewing angles and up to 30m night vision. They are weatherproof and include both a speaker and microphone, allowing you to communicate with someone at the camera. https://uniden.com.au/product/guardian-app-cam-4k-bullet/ $249.95 https://uniden.com.au/product/guardian-app-cam-4k-dome/ $249.95

Alternative cameras must be mains connected and include the Guardian App Cam Home, which is wireless for the video signal. This indoors camera can pan and tilt as well as supporting a real-time conversation with two-way audio. https://uniden.com.au/product/guardian-app-cam-home/ $129.95.  The Guardian App Cam Spotlight + is also wireless for the video signal. This outdoor camera includes a spotlight that will illuminate when triggered, being a great deterrent to intruders. https://uniden.com.au/product/guardian-app-cam-spotlight-plus/#1493714178990-db34738f-658e $179.95

We like this NVR solution as you have the flexibility to pick the right camera, including wireless or fixed as well as supporting audio.

SUMMARY – Wired security systems

A wired security camera allows you to have movement alerts high-quality video recordings of activity at your business 24/7. The system can act as a burglar alarm, evidence of an event or even safety monitoring. Some solutions allow integration with a wireless camera. Still, fixed are likely to be of higher quality video and more reliable.  Via a smartphone app you can receive movement alerts and also view cameras in real-time.  This access can be shared with others.

An out of the box solution does not require professional installation, although you may need help running cables.  A configurable solution allows you to mix and match different cameras to suit your exact requirements. 

Wired security cameras can be purchased directly or from office supply and electrical retailers.

Wired vs Bluetooth headset – Review

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This is not exactly a headset shoot-out between a Wired vs Bluetooth headset. Nor is it a fair fight as one set of headphones today is without question better than the other.

However, this review is more about how much should you spend on a headset for your Zoom, teams, Google meet etc.

Certainly, over the last year, people have spent a lot of time on video calls. If you have not already, it really is time you bought yourself a decent headset.  You will hear better, and others will hear you better.

Before you read any further, check out Small Business Answers buying guide to headsets for business.

The two models we look at today are:

Jabra Evolve 2 30 online we found these for $139

Poly Voyager Focus 2 Office online we found these for $380

So the Poly’s are just short of 3 times as much. Both units have on-ear headphones and a swinging microphone.

The difference at the highest level is one is Bluetooth vs Corded. The Jabra can be bought as USB A or C at the end of the cable. If you will always be on a video call, then wired is fine because you will not be moving.  If you are doing many voice-only calls and want to walk around the house/office, the Bluetooth Polys are definitely the go.

Sound quality – This is a relative thing as they both sound good for voice and music. If you compare the two directly, the Poly’s come out on top slightly. The tested headphones do support stereo. Note some Bluetooth headphones might have a left and right speaker but still playback in mono.

Noise cancellation is a big one if you are working in a busy environment.  Whether it is kids, construction, or workmates, blocking out background noise and concentrating on the call is key.  The Poly offers 3 levels of noise cancellation. The Jabra’s have no published noise cancelling.

The weights of the headsets come in at 125grams for the Jabra and 175 grams for the Poly. Neither felt heavy, and the comfort on both units was excellent.  The more expensive Poly has a fancier headband, but I preferred the simpler and firmer Jabra’s for my head.

Buttons on the headset let you control volume, start or stop music or calls and mute the conversation.  Both units also had a dedicated Microsoft Teams button (more on that in a minute).  Personal preference again, but I did prefer the Poly. The little stuff also makes a big difference.  Pick up the Poly’s and put them on your head. A call will be automatically answered without touching any buttons.

Microphone – Just like above, where you don’t want background noise to disturb you, there is also a need to protect the others on a call from that same background noise.  The Jabra uses two microphones to help. Poly acoustic fence technology is really cool. They use microphones on the earphones to work out what noise is not coming from your mouth to the boom microphone to cut out any background noise. The simple explanation is the other con callers are unlikely to hear the screaming child.

The Battery life on the Poly is 19 hours of talk time, more than enough to get you through the day. Just in case you forgot to charge, they can be directly connected to a USB port to continue charging as well as porting audio directly.

The Poly having Bluetooth allows a mobile and a PC to be connected simultaneously, which is great to seamlessly swap between the two.  The audio experience using the headset with mobile was a big upgrade on the handset itself for sound and voice. Siri and google assist will also work with a long press of the central button.

Durability will be key to the headsets lasting and not breaking anytime soon.  With no proper way to test this, all I can say is they both surprised me how durable the builds appear to be.

Mute being the ability to mute your voice is probably my number one feature.
The Poly has a nice button on the microphone itself, and removing the headset will also mute a call. The Jabra has a button on the earphone.  The Poly will tell you audibly you are on mute if you have forgotten to remove mute and you speak. I prefer the Poly method over the optional Jabra continuous audible tone that can be switched on in your desktop software to remind you mute is activated.

Suppose you are in a business environment with multiple people. In that case, both models have a Busy light that illuminates, alerting others you are on a call.

A PC or Mac app is available for both models giving you greater control, software upgrades and better integration with your unified communications software.

Unified communications is a business term used to describe voice and messaging solutions. With the adoption of work from home, it is a must.  Both headsets are certified for Microsoft teams which then offers enhancements when using the teams’ application. Such as starting or answering a Teams call. Other models will work better with other solutions, such as Zoom, but the Teams version works fine.

Included accessories. Both units come with a carry pouch for the headset.  Not an accessory, but the Jabra was shipped in a paper bag versus a box which I consider very environment friendly. 
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 Office ships with a charging stand that allows a desk phone connection, a computer connected via USB. This really takes Poly to the top end of the headset market.

Summary – Wired headset vs Bluetooth headset

This review is not so much about Jabra vs Poly as we are not comparing like for like indeed; we could have compared a lower cost Jabra and a high-cost Poly. Instead, it is about how much should you spend to get what you need out of a headset. Which one a Wired headset vs Bluetooth headset?

If you are working from home, want to improve your voice and video calls and potentially paying for the headset yourself, the cheaper corded headsets (Jabra) are a no brainer.

If you are on calls all day, you don’t want background noise disturbing those calls. You want to get up from the chair, then the extra money for the cordless Bluetooth (Poly) is worth every cent. Especially if work is paying for them.

The Poly’s also made excellent music headphones, and although it looks a little strange, you can walk the streets on a call, and all the car noise etc., is perfectly blocked out.

Storage and sharing of files

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Emailing copies of files around an office environment just does not make sense especially if they are large ones. In this guide we will discuss what are your options for storage, backup and sharing files in small businesses and lead you through what you should consider in making your decision.

File sharing is the practice of distributing or providing access to computer files, multimedia (audio, images, and video), documents, or electronic books. Common methods of storage, transmission, and dispersion include manual sharing utilising removable media such as a USB stick or portable hard drive, file sharing server on a computer network, and cloud-based storage platforms on the internet.

WHY do I want a File Share Storage Solution?

You may wish to share files in your office, to your clients, or on the other side of the world. It is most likely to be a document being worked on by many or a large document that is too large for email. Parties with access may or may not have the authority to edit the file.

Even if you do not want to share files, having separate storage available is great for an individual to store files when they start to run out of room on their PC.

WHAT do you need to know about File Sharing and Storage Options?

There are 3 main types of storage that a small business is likely to consider:
  1. USB memory stick or portable hard drive – portable storage that plugs into a USB port on your PC.
  2. File Sharing server – Data storage box located on your network (Be sure to read our essential guide on Networks)
  3. Cloud-based storage – Data storage provided by a 3rd party and accessed through the internet (Be sure to read our essential guide on Cloud-based services)

File sharing is bad when the wrong person gets hold of a file that they should not have and as such you should ensure you have the appropriate security measures to stop unauthorised access.

Advantages and Disadvantages:
  • USB memory stick
    • Advantage: Cheap and does not require internet or networking, very cheap
    • Disadvantage: manual and requires to be physicaly moved between devices, fixed capacity
  • File Sharing Server
    • Advantage: No monthly fees, instant access over network and or internet, high-speed transfer especially on the same network, functionality can be combined with other applications on an in house server
    • Disadvantage: upfront cost and set up, data could be lost if not backed up properly, additional capacity requires additional or larger hard drive to be installed
  • Cloud-Based Storage
    • Advantage: no hardware required, predictable monthly fee, increase capacity by paying more, access from anywhere
    • Disadvantage: Speed limited to internet speed, you rely on storage vendors security and backup unless unlimited, uses your internet download allowance, ongoing fees

HOW to make a decision between Cloud Storage vs NAS File Server?

Considerations when buying a file server:

A file server also called a NAS (network-attached storage) is a computer designed specifically to share files and can be provided by an IT specialist or even bought off the shelf at Officeworks.  It will plug into your office network by ethernet cable or potentially by wifi.

  • Is it plug and play – just works once you connect it?
  • Will it support a backup solution preferably offsite? (Be sure to read our essential guide on Backup)
  • Do you want it to connect to a cloud service for extra capacity or backup?
  • Does it have a USB port for simple backup?
  • What size and speed of hard drives?  Normally expressed as TB or terabytes.
  • Does it have spare drive bays to add additional hard drives?
  • Will it work with Windows and Macs?
  • Does it support redundancy?  This could be a 2nd power supply or duplication of the same data on 2 disks. This means if one fails you are still up and running without needing to go to your backup.
  • Can video surveillance footage be plugged directly in?
Considerations if choosing a Cloud-based Storage solution:
  • Key players in this space include Google Drive, Microsoft One Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox all of which offer a small amount of storage for free and then charge a monthly fee based on capacity required. What will be your cost?
  • What do you want to store here and is that something you want as a policy in your business?
  • How much storage do you need? (Allow min 1TB per person – more if you deal with large files)
  • Is there a file size limit? For example, individual file no bigger than 10GB
  • Cloud vendors may offer you value add services like productivity tools. What are they and are they of any use?
  • What guarantees do they provide around the availability of service? For example, they may say that your data will be available 364 days meaning up to 1 day a year it might not.
  • What security do they have in place?
  • How do you authenticate an individual is allowed access? (passwords etc)
  • Is there a backup strategy? How many previous versions of a file are backed up and can still be accessed?
  • How fast can you upload or download files? Is that speed equal to the speed of your internet plan?
  • Can files be automatically synced between a PC in the office and the cloud storage?
  • How does it integrate with your operating system (e.g. Windows) and browser (e.g. Google)?
  • Does your main business application integrate automatically?  For example, the CAD design software AutoCAD will integrate with OneDrive allowing seamless sharing of this drafting tool.
  • Where is the storage located?  Is it Australia or overseas?
  • What customer service and support is available?

HINT

Be sure to read our essential guide on Backup to ensure that if you have a disaster you can recover from it!

Reviews of simple storage devices can be found by visiting Gadgetguy

A good comparison of cloud storage vendors can be found here:
Techradar

SUMMARY – Easy File Share Solutions

A modern small business will need some sort of file sharing facility and with modern technology, it is easy to do.  This will make you more collaborative with your staff, for customers and your suppliers. It will also save you time, money, and stress.

Walkie talkie buyers guide

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A walkie talkie or handheld two-way radio is so much more than a kid’s toy. Mobile phones have done so much for communications, however, having a constant open channel has so many applications, especially for small businesses.  This guide will explain what you need to know about a handheld two-way radio and help you make a buying decision.

A walkie talkie, portable CB or two-way is a handheld radio that allows two or more parties to communicate verbally via free radio spectrum. Any party in range on the same channel will hear all transmitted broadcasts. Communication is initiated by pushing a button only whilst talking.

WHY should I buy a two-way radio for my business?

The two-way radio has been around since the Second World War, and it revolutionised our ability to communicate remotely. With no additional infrastructure (like a phone tower), we can quickly and easily communicate with two or more parties.

Common walkie talkie uses for small business include:
  • Worksites – to coordinate cranes, vehicles, worksite activities, help required
  • Restaurants – co-ordination of meals, empty tables, spills
  • Retail outlets – enhancing customer service, stock control, security
  • Warehouse – facilitate collection, call back to a dock
  • Farm – location identification, voice communication with no phone coverage, lunch call, safety

Unlike a mobile phone, a two-way allows all users to hear the same messages and essentially have a group chat to coordinate activities. Once the walkie talkie is purchased, there are no ongoing monthly charges and is only limited by its range and battery.

WHAT do I need to understand?

A walkie talkie is a handheld device containing a battery, an antenna, microphone, speaker, radio transmitter, and receiver. In Australia, they work on an Ultra High Frequency (UHF). The publicly available models have 80 possible channels (see Channels below).

Range

The radio range is determined by two factors the wattage or transmission power (see next point) and the obstacles between the antennas of each handset. The range will be greater if there is a direct line of sight between the two handsets.  Hills, buildings, walls and even trees will reduce the operating range between each handset.

Power/wattage

In Australia, the maximum wattage permitted is 5 watts(w).  Generally, a walkie talkie can be bought with 5w, 2w, 1w or 0.5w.  Higher wattage models will allow you to switch between different wattage. Reduced wattage gives you reduced range, but longer battery life and more privacy as others are unlikely to be in range to hear your conversation.

How far will my walkie talkie work?
  • 5 watts up to 17km
  • 2 watts up to 13km
  • 1 watt up to 7km
  • 0.5 watt up to 3km
Channels

Channels relate to fixed frequencies the radio can operate at. There are 80 channels to select from, but there are some channels you should not use.
General use: 9-21, 24-29, 39, 49-60, 64-70, 79,80. USE THESE ONES
Repeater Channels: 1-8,31-38, 41-48, 71-78. (use repeater stations to increase range)
Emergency use: 5, 30
Caravaners: 18, 20 (generally use)
Truckies: 29, 40
Data (no voice): 22,23

HOW to choose a walkie talkie?

The below features are ones you should consider in making your decision:

Size – how big the unit is and where you will carry it.

Controls – how easy it is to change the channel or increase the volume.  Could be a rotary knob or buttons.

Battery life – some cheaper models use disposable batteries, but for work purposes, you should look at a rechargeable lithium battery model. Ensure the unit has a clear battery level indicator. Models should indicate an operating time in hours based on 90% standby, 5% transmit, and 5% receive.

Charging – depending on your situation and power sources available for recharging, you can choose between 240v mains, 12volt car charger or USB charger (not supported by all models).

Durable – some radios are built better than others. Some models are designed to take punishment, including being run over and dropped from a height. Look for die-cast chassis.

Incoming alert – this is similar to a ring tone and helps you recognise incoming communication.

Talk confirmation – a tone that indicates the other party has stopped talking and removed their finger from the transmit button. Saves you from saying “over” to finish speaking.

Scan– allows you to scan other channels to hear any conversations in range. Some models allow you to select which channels to scan.

CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) & DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) – allows a group to talk to each other without hearing other users on the same channel and delivers clearer channel operation.

Scramble – enables private communications by scrambling the voice signal. This prevents users without descrambler equipment or a compatible unit from understanding the conversation.

Master scan technology – if your current channel is interrupted by outsiders, all radios in your group will automatically jump to a new clear channel allowing uninterrupted communication to continue.

Waterproof – it is unlikely to be fully waterproof. Still, it will survive water immersion to a depth of up to 1 metre for a specified number of minutes. Look for the IP rating.  Note this rating is based on brand new units, not battered units with ageing seals. This same rating will indicate it is also dustproof.

Handsfree mode (VOX) – some models will allow voice activation, so you do not even need to press a button to talk.

LED Torch – a built-in LED light.

Backlit screen & keys – great if you will use at night.

Accessories
  • Microphone – a spiralled cable attached microphone allows communication without holding 2-way.
  • Earpiece – a separate earbud speaker and microphone enable discrete communication
  • desktop charger – for convenient charging
  • carry case – to protect the walkie talkie
  • belt clip – for convenient transport
  • 12volt (car) charger – recharging in your car
  • spare battery – peace of mind by having a 2nd battery
  • external antenna – the stubbie antenna can be unscrewed, and an external magnetic antenna and cable can be attached to increase range from a vehicle

HINTS

Remember, this is a public network, so others can easily eavesdrop on your conversations if they are in range.

Two-way radios permanently mounted in a vehicle don’t need charging and can communicate with walkie talkies, assuming you are in range and on the same channel.

You can licence a channel for commercial purposes, increasing your privacy but also will increase costs.

SUMMARY – Which walkie talkie?

A walkie talkie is a valuable business tool. It can be used to increase productivity and improve customer service.  Radio communication comes into its own when several parties need to communicate at no additional cost, especially when there is no mobile phone coverage.  More expensive models will have a greater range and the ability to keep your calls private.

Which computer should I buy?

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You need a new computer, some are $300 others are $3000. Where do you start?  What do you need?  In this guide, as we don’t understand your circumstances we cannot recommend the right computer but we will help you make that decision yourself.

PC is an abbreviation for personal computer. Personal computers allow us to write papers, create spreadsheets, track our finances, play games, and do many other things. If a PC is connected to the Internet, it can be used to browse the Web, check e-mail, communicate with friends via instant messaging programs, and download files. PCs have become such an integral part of our lives that it can be difficult to imagine life without them!

WHY do I need a new or different Computer?

The fact you are reading this guide means you are already considering a new PC. 

The most common reasons for a new PC are:

New staff member
Old PC is too slow
Old PC has failed
Existing PC will not run the program you need
PC has been written off from a financial perspective or deemed too old to continue being reliable.

The question that needs answering here is what is the difference between a PC for home versus a PC for work? Not a great deal depending on what you do for work.  These days a lot of home PCs have features built in to support gaming which is not much use at work unless you are doing graphic or video work.

A PC will not last forever and any moving part like a disk drive or fan is the most likely component to fail.

WHAT do I need to understand about a PC?

Walk into a retailer or go online and you will be presented with lots of choice and price points.  There are some key decisions you need to make upfront before we look at how to evaluate a PC.

  1. Desktop or Laptop – Laptops may also be called notebooks, which are generally slightly smaller. A Laptop is portable whilst a desktop is not.  A desktop can be more powerful, have more connection port options and upgradeable but few people except for gamers ever upgrade their desktop by replacing components. Historically desktops are cheaper for similar specifications but not always.  If the user will work away from the office they should have a laptop.
    1. Desktop – come as either a tower unit which is large upright box, compact or small form factor which places everything in a sandwich sided box, or an all-in-one which combines the components into the back of a monitor.
    1. Laptops –  are a self-sufficient solution with battery including screen, keyboard and touchpad (mouse).  Features, screen size and weight distinguish models.
  2. Operation system – Today there are four main types:
    1. Microsoft Windows – most common and will run almost every software.
    1. Apple Mac OS – traditionally favoured by creatives or anyone who has gone down the Apple ecosystem.
    1. Google Chrome – a cheaper solution that combined with a lower specified hardware set without a hard drive will perform most functions via a browser and the internet.  Popular in education today.
    1. Linux– an opensource operating system which is very cheap and generally only used in specialised applications.
  3. Tablet as PC replacement – Some modern tablets are so powerful they could be used as a laptop replacement.  When combined with a keyboard they are essentially the same with a different operating system.

As more and more applications and solutions go to the cloud, the operating system is becoming more irrelevant and all you need is to run a browser connected to the internet.  However, you do need to ensure that any specialist software or application your business will use can run on the device you buy.

HOW do choose which Personal Computer?

Now you have picked your form factor and operating system this starts to narrow down your selection.  Next, you can compare at various retailers instore or online, alternatively visit a specific manufacturers website who sell direct like HP or Dell.

Very simply the higher the specification on each of the below technologies the more expensive the PC will be. If your needs are basic the most basic solutions will do the job but we will make some recommendations below based on value for money and suitability for 3 to 4 years usage.

Key technologies include:

Screen or Monitor:  built into a laptop and often bundled with a desktop.  Similar technology as a TV.  Two factors to consider are screen size measured in inches and resolution.  For desktops, we recommend a 27-inch display with Full HD (1920×1080 pixels) resolution.  Those doing graphics or video work should consider a larger display with a 4K resolution.  More money will also buy more accurate colours.

Processor or CPU: This is your brains of the PC and will be an Intel or AMD product. The bigger the number the faster it will complete a task but at a higher cost.  A good sweet spot is an Intel Core i5. Those doing complicated mathematics or graphics should spend more money here.

Memory or RAM:  This is the PC’s short term memory. It controls how much it can remember in real-time.  8GB is the sweet-spot, however, most devices can be upgraded if not enough.

Storage or hard drive:  This is the long term memory and the place you store all your applications and files. A standard hard drive has moving parts and is cost-effective and can store large amounts of data.  A modern alternative is a solid-state drive or SSD which essentially uses computer chips to store data.  An SSD is very fast to boot and access files.  If you are using a laptop we recommend using an SSD of 256GB, if using a Desktop SSD would be good but 1 TB drive is the sweet spot.  In a desktop having both an SSD and hard drive will give you speed and greater storage.

Graphics card:  Unless you are using graphic intensive programs, we don’t suggest you need this functionality as the basics are built into the processor.  Graphics cards are very popular with home gamers.

Connections:  This is how you connect devices to your PC.  We recommend you ensure you have the following ports-

  • HDMI to connect an external monitor.
  • USB 3 to connect keyboards, mouse, printers, memory sticks, camera’s etc. Two or more ports recommended.
  • Thunderbolt (not essential but replaces both of the above).
  • WiFi is how you might connect to the internet wirelessly (see Set up a WiFi network guide).
  • Ethernet will only be required if you want a cable connection to the internet from the PC.
  • Bluetooth allows you to connect wirelessly to a mouse, keyboard or your smartphone.
  • Speakers are included in a laptop but generally needed to be added to a desktop.
  • SD card slot (not essential) makes it easy to transfer from this medium used in cameras and phones.

You will need to consider software for your new PC and further details on this can be found in our guides on office productivity software and internet security.

HINTS

Visit the gadgetguy website to see reviews and recommendations on various PC products.

How to choose a Windows laptop – a guide for home and office use 2021

Watch out for specials. As this is such a competitive market they are always around and will save you some money.

Next year’s technology will always be better so just accept your PC is out of date soon after you buy it.  However, most 3-year-old computers can handle any solutions currently available today.

Ensure you also read our guide on Backup- keeping your data safe.

Your IT support business or computer retailer can also recommend suitable models.

SUMMARY – understand the computer jargon

Buying a new PC can be a daunting task with lots of jargon and so much to choose from.  If you stick to reputable brands and understand the implications the various technologies have on the performance of a PC your decision becomes easier.  Make sure that what you buy will support the applications and solutions you need to run within your business.

Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard for productivity

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If you are like most people, you will have bought a new PC or laptop and never considered those extra computer peripherals.  After all, they probably came with the unit or were built into your laptop. Specifically, we are talking about a webcam, mouse, keyboard or even a headset or separate microphone.  In this how-to guide, we will look at why you should consider spending some more money, what you need to understand about peripherals and how to buy the right item.

WebCam: A video camera either integrated or connected to a PC allowing images to be seen normally over the internet.
Mouse: A small handheld peripheral that when moved will cause the cursor on a computer screen to also move.
Keyboard: a set of keys allowing alphanumerical communication on a PC.
Microphone or Speaker: A mechanical device to turn audio sound waves into signals that can be transmitted by your PC or vice versa.

WHY should I buy a Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard?

 Your brand-new PC comes with an included mouse and keyboard.  Your brand-new laptop comes with a trackpad (mouse), keyboard, webcam and microphone.

However, there are a few reasons why you should consider buying a separate Webcam, Mouse Keyboard, Microphone, Headset, Speakers etc

  1. They did not come in the box
    Chances are if you bought a freestanding computer an accessory such as a webcam is not included.
  2. Quality
    A PC manufacturer will typically only ship the most essential quality accessories to keep their and your costs down. This would influence the touch and feel or how the product looks. In the case of a microphone or webcam, it will impact how you look and sound.
  3. Ergonomics
    This can be considered two ways:
    • With a laptop computer, the peripherals are build-in; therefore when you use it remotely it is convenient, but if you are at home, ergonomically a separate keyboard and mouse will allow you to find a much more comfortable position
    • The design and shape of a keyboard can reduce the stress and strain placed on your hands, fingers and back.  Many people, after years of operating a computer develop an RSI or repetitive strain injury.
  4. Functionality
    A third party peripheral may come with extra buttons or features that allow you to become more effective. Examples include scrolling left and right from a mouse, zooming a webcam, and pressing a button on your keyboard to open an app.
  5. Durability
    A cheap accessory is built to a price, and its performance may deteriorate quickly with use.  Ensure your products will survive a fall and potentially put up with the abuse from working at home.

More and more people are now working from home (COVID has undoubtedly accelerated that) but for most small businesses that was already a reality.  However, what has changed is the use of your computer to make video and voice calls.  To be seen as a professional, you need to ensure your video image is sharp and your voice is heard clearly.

WHAT do you need to know about computer peripherals?

An essential product we have not covered in this guide is computer monitors. We have a separate guide available here.  If you are also in the market for a new computer, be sure to check out our guide on buying a new PC.

No matter what accessory you buy for your PC, they will be connected to your PC in some way and also powered.  This is likely to occur in one of two ways.

A wired connection will pass information back and forth and also provide power for the device.  The advantage is you don’t have to worry about batteries or to recharge. Still, you do have to worry about an ugly cable.  You also need to consider whether your PC has enough USB sockets or buy a hub (same concept as a power board).

The second method is a wireless solution that will typically connect to your PC by Bluetooth and require disposable or rechargeable batteries.  The significant advantage here is no cords, especially for a mouse.

HOW to pick the right Webcam, Mouse and Keyboard

Below we have listed the key features you should consider when buying a:

Webcam
  • Quality of video capture. Measured as resolution and frame rate. Look for HD or Full HD at 30fps.
  • Field of view. Measured in degrees will determine if you are captured as a wide (> deg sees more of the room) or closeup shot.
  • Autofocus. Ensures the image of you is clear
  • Light correction. If you are in a dark or bright room, how well the camera compensates
  • Quality of lens. Glass is better
  • Compatibility with Zoom, Teams, Skype etc
  • Mounting. Does it come with a bracket to attach to a monitor or tripod
  • Microphone. Determines how you sound and what other noise is picked up. Consider a stereo mike for natural sound with noise cancelling.
  • Software control.  Manual adjustment, video capture, and even changing the background, so people do not see your unmade bed.
Mouse
  • How you hold the mouse – fingertip grip, palm grip or claw grip.  Also consider if it will be small enough to travel with if required.
  • Feel – comfort, scrolling action and buttons
  • Cable or wireless
  • Sensitivity – for precision mouse movements if editing images, video or audio.  Measured in Dots Per Inch, look for one with at least 1200 DPI
  • Will it work on different surfaces?
Keyboard
  • Cable or wireless – if wireless consider battery life
  • Compatibility with Windows PC or Apple Mac
  • Extra function keys – to open apps or perform tasks
  • Ergonomics of keys – position and feel
  • Sensitivity and noise – avoid mistypes and disturbing others
  • Do you want illuminated keys for night use
Headset
  • Over-ear – on-ear – in-ear. – Personal preference
  • Sound quality
  • Comfort including lightness and after long periods
  • Fashion – How will you look on a video call
  • Microphone quality and placement
  • Features including mute, volume or even noise cancelling
Microphone (stand-alone)
  • More expensive the better you sound
  • Usage – video calling versus recording a podcast
  • Size
  • Does it connect via USB or 3.5mm jack and include software to adjust the sound
  • Portability if you need to travel
Speakers
  • More expensive may not mean better but cheap is generally cheap
  • Do you just need noise or will you also listen to music
  • Cable or wireless connection
  • Dedicated volume and possibly base control
  • How big and how do they look
  • Other uses such as a smart speaker
  • How loud they are, measured in wattage
  • Try to listen before you buy

HINTS

If you are in the market for a new computer accessory, unfortunately, you are unlikely able to test drive it at your local retailer or office supply store.  We do recommend you visit our sister site Gadgetguy.com.au for unbiased reviews and comparisons.

The key players in the peripherals market are Microsoft and the key PC makers themselves like HP and Dell. Still, we highly recommend you check out the vast range available from Logitech. The latter specialises in this market and make products to suit many needs.

SUMMARY – Improve your PC productivity

Buying a new Webcam, Mouse ,Keyboard etc for your computer is one of those things that you do not know what you are missing out on until you experience what better looks/feel like.  The accessory may seem expensive but remember it is the primary connection for you to connect with your PC and possibly your customers.

When deciding what to buy always consider what you need, how it will help your productivity, improve your impression on others, and be more comfortable for you to use.