There are many ways one can take to improve the ergonomics of their desk set-ups, from ensuring the correct desk heights to adopting the right postures. One of the most recommended tips that we have mentioned many times in our articles is making sure that your monitor is at the right level – eye level.
One of the ways to achieve so is to raise it to the correct height using an adjustable study table or a sit-stand desk converter. However, another possible way is to get a monitor arm. However, getting a monitor arm is only the first step to improving computer ergonomics. In this post, we have compiled five steps to help you achieve optimal adjustments for maximised productivity and comfort.
Step #1: Eye level
When adjusting the monitor arm, ensure that the top 1/3 of the monitor is at your eye level when you are sitting straight. That way, it minimises eye and neck strain. Additionally, make sure that you move only your eyes when you are reading through the content on your monitor screen.
Step #2: Center the monitor
Ensure that your monitor is straight in front of you by centring it. Doing so ensures that you are not jutting or forcing your neck into an awkward position to view your screen, thus, minimising any unnecessary strain on your neck and shoulders.
Step #3: Make sure that your monitor is at arm’s length away from you
The best thing about the monitor arm is the ability to adjust the distance between you and your monitor. An arm’s length from your position is the perfect viewing distance that allows you to see comfortably without having to slouch forward or lean back.
Step #4: Pay attention to VESA standard
Whether you will be purchasing a new monitor or not, paying attention to the VESA standard is vital. All monitor arms will have a base plate with four holes of varying distances, such as 75mm by 75mm or 100mm by 100mm. Depending on the size of your monitor, ensure that you get the right VESA standard-sized monitor arm for your monitor. The hole pattern allows you to attach your monitor to your monitor arm. Unfortunately, most Apple monitors are not VESA-approved.
Step #5: Tilt 10-20 degrees backward to avoid monitor reflection or glare
Make sure that you do not install a direct light source behind you or your monitor to avoid eyestrain due to monitor reflection and glare, respectively. You can avoid monitor reflection by angling it at 10-20 degrees backward, allowing you to have an adequate separation between your eyes and the screen, reducing any computer-related exhaustion or eye strain.
How do monitor arms improve productivity?
- Better multi-task performance: An adjustable monitor arm frees up desk space, which allows for more work surfaces to perform other tasks simultaneously, such as reviewing documents, writing notes, or making phone calls.
- Efficient hot-desking: Monitor arms are highly beneficial for workplaces that implement shared working spaces for team collaboration and hot-desking. Without having to spend much money switching to electric tables, staff can also easily adjust the monitor arm to their desired height. Additionally, monitor arms can easily be swivelled about, allowing colleagues to share information with one another easily.
Conclusion
By following the five simple adjustment steps for monitor arms, we hope that you can improve productivity and comfortability in your home or work set-up. TakeAseat offers a wide selection of monitor arms, from 1-arm to 2-arm. So, make the most out of your monitor with us today! For more information, head over to https://www.takeaseat.sg/ or visit our furniture shop in Ubi and Woodlands, to get started on your ergonomic journey.
