Chapter 2. Arranging your workspaceTo get the most from your computer, arrange both the equipment you use and your work area to suit yourneeds and the kind of work you do. Your comfort is of foremost importance, but light sources, air circulation,and the location of electrical outlets can also affect the way you arrange your workspace.ComfortAlthough no single working position is ideal for everyone, here are a few guidelines to help you find aposition that suits you best.Sitting in the same position for a long time can cause fatigue. The backrest and seat of your chair shouldadjust independently and provide good support. The seat should have a curved front to relieve pressure onthe thighs. Adjust the seat so that your thighs are parallel to the floor and your feet are either flat on thefloor or on a footrest.When using the keyboard, keep your forearms parallel to the floor and your wrists in a comfortable position.Use a light touch on the keyboard and your hands and fingers relaxed. Change the angle of the keyboardfor maximum comfort by adjusting the position of the keyboard feet.Adjust the monitor so the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, eye level. Place the monitor at acomfortable viewing distance, usually 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 inches), and position it so you can view itwithout having to twist your body. Also, position other equipment you use regularly, such as the telephone ora mouse, within easy reach.Glare and lightingPosition the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights, windows, and other light sources.Reflected light from shiny surfaces can cause annoying reflections on your monitor screen. Place themonitor at right angles to windows and other light sources, when possible. Reduce overhead lighting, ifnecessary, by turning off lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If you install the monitor near a window, usecurtains or blinds to block the sunlight. You can adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the monitoras the room lighting changes throughout the day.Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, an antiglare filter placed over the screenmight be helpful. However, these filters might affect the clarity of the image on the screen; try them only afteryou have exhausted other methods of reducing glare.Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to clean your monitor screenperiodically using a soft cloth as directed in your monitor documentation.© Copyright Lenovo 2009, 2012 3