I want to have a decent setup for coding projects. I am not going to use this for gaming or graphic-intensive projects. Maximizing screen property for text-based projects is my prime concern. So here is my list for setting up an efficient and affordable workspace for coding:
1. Plugable UGA-3000 USB 3.0 to VGA / DVI / HDMI Adapter for Windows — Multiple Monitors.
For extending monitors for more screen property (read: more productivity).
2.USB 3.0 to VGA Video Graphic Card Display External Cable Adapter for Win XP 7/8
I am picking up another VGA adaptor, but from Ebay in order to test out if the two are compatible. It is half the cost, but it is always risky to buy things from Ebay. The ratings and warranty seems to say it is okay. Cost: $20–25, depending on various ebay supplier.
Note: Although the Plugable manual states that you need ONE adapter per extra monitor, I tested out with another extra monitor anyways. As you can see on the picture, it is possible to graphically show three monitors with one VGA adapter. However, my cursor is not responsive so I wouldn’t recommend it. Otherwise, the Plugable works perfectly with my Window 8 Sony Vaoi (running with i7 dual core 12 GB memory).
3. Used monitors. $0–40 per monitor.
My relatives have several old 19″-20″ lying around and they gladly gave two to me.
4. Dvorak keyboard sticker.
This is important and a good update to turn a QWERTY keyboard into DVORAK, which is important if you want to maximize your typing speed. After all the QWERTY layout was designed to slow you down.
5. Wireless Keyboard and mouse kit.
This is definitely an optional item, but I am working from my laptop, so I would like to have a wireless keyboard and mouse kit when I’m at home. I think I can splurge here since the kit comes with a usb mouse as well.
Link for red keyboard.
Link for pink keyboard.
White and black are also available. This is for PC, but similar models are also available for Mac.
6. Hacker/Gaming Glasses.
Helps reduce eyestrain for prolong period of staring at the screen.
Gunnars brand are the best and can go up to 100 in price. I settled for ClearOptix, aviator style on Amazon for 15. It was 5 bucks for both the aviator and wayfarer style a bit ago, but of course, they are out of stock at the time of this post.
Considerations for future updates.
Quad LCD Monitor Stand desk clamp for 4, 24″ LCD monitors
Higher-end LCD monitor. 22–24 inches.
This will be necessary later on for more web design projects, since graphics and color are important The Asus VS247H-P 23.6 inches with HD LED-Lit for 150 hits the sweet spot
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That’s it for now. I just purchased the red keyboard and it is on the way. I will do an update a picture later when all the items come in.