Tools of the Trade for Working from Home
I have been working from home for a number of years and now that everyone else is working from home, I have been asked a number of time what are my “tools of the trade”. I am mainly talking about hardware in this article, however software recommendations from me are covered in an article called Staying connected in a COVID-19 world from DSR Branding.
Video Calls
Microphone - Jabra Speak 510 (cheaper one without Bluetooth is the 410). I normally connect it via USB however sometimes I use the Bluetooth for phone calls.
Camera - Logitech HD Pro Webcam Black C920 is a really good camera for me and works well.
Computer Monitor - Acer CB280HK 4K 28in Monitor seems like it is hard to find this anymore. Check out this article recommending monitors.
Internet Stability
Having stable internet will make a massive difference in video calls and make working from home in general much better. I use this tech to do this:
Router/Wifi-Hotspot - TP-Link AX6000, yes it is super expensive and I justify it by how much I rely on a solid internet connection. I also have a NETGEAR Nighthawk AX8 Wireless AX6000 but I have dropouts and so I prefer the TP-Link product.
Internet Provider - By far the best internet provider around at the moment is Aussie Broadband. They have set the standard for transparency (they publish their network statistics so they can deliver on their promise of NO NETWORK CONGESTION) which no-one else in the industry does. My referrer code is 2729036 is you want to sign up, it will give you a discount and me a credit on my account.
Desk
Standing Desk - I use a Zen Space Desk standing desk. It is a Brisbane based company run by a friend of a friend. I was one of the first customers in Brisbane and the owner of the company came and set up my desk for me. Awesome guy and awesome product.
Desk Speaker - I use a Sonos One SL on my desk for music. I love the sound from the Sonos products. I prefer the one without the Smart Speaker.