Technology

Technology for Your Home and Office

Looking for a computer, printer, monitor, networking cables or maybe even a new camera or camcorder? You've come to the right place! Start by thinking about where-and how-you will use the technology. If you work alone, a compact laptop might be the right choice. If you share a computer, or a network, with family or colleagues, consider a desktop system with a widescreen monitor. Think you'll need to expand or add technology over time? No problem. Most machines and software are compatible and easy to integrate.

Office Depot Gift Cards are a great way to ensure that everyone on your list gets exactly what they want this holiday season. Available in multiple denominations and redeemable in-store, online or by phone.

Remember to add a performance protection plan to any of your technology and furniture gift purchases. It's a great way to protect your investment and give peace of mind, too!

Which Computer Is Right for You?

If you work from one home base, desktop computers may be the right choice for you. Customize your desktop with a widescreen LCD monitor that provides crystal-clear visuals for reading, design work or gaming. Want to see everything on the big screen? Now you can get an affordable widescreen monitor that's 24 inches or larger! You'll also need to consider how much memory you'll need in your PC. Choose a zippy 4 GB desktop for your standard work, or upgrade to a 6GB machine if you run more demanding programs, games or videos.

If you have limited desk space-or simply want all the features of a high-performance computer in a compact design-consider an all-in-one desktop computer. These machines house all the drives and other electronics inside the monitor instead of a separate tower. They feature widescreen monitors and plenty of memory; however, all-in-one desktops are usually more expensive than traditional desktops.

Want the freedom to take your office with you and work almost anywhere? A Laptop computer may be just what you need. Whether you want to check your email at the coffee shop, revise spreadsheets at the airport, or update your Facebook status from your patio, laptops offer the flexibility to do it all. At Office Depot, you'll find laptops in a variety of sizes and weights from all the top brands including Acer, Asus, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, Toshiba and many more.

Looking for the touchscreen convenience of a smartphone and the speed and power of a laptop? A tablet computer has the best of both! With fast online interactivity, tablets let you surf the web, send and receive emails, edit documents, watch movies online and take and view photos using a bright, easy-to-read touchscreen. Need to attend a virtual meeting? Use the convenient video conferencing feature. While laptops offer much more data storage, tablet computers boast an ultra-slim design and battery life of up to eight hours. Also, while the average laptop weighs six pounds, the average tablet weighs just one pound.

Netbooks are similar to tablet computers with one major difference: They have a laptop-like keyboard instead of a touchscreen. Although they're heavier than tablets, netbook computers remain portable, with screen sizes ranging from about 10 to 12 inches. Netbooks are great for checking email or searching the internet when you're on the move. Want to add a larger monitor or keyboard? No problem. Look for netbooks equipped with VGA ports.

More Technology Choices

Monitors are available in a wide variety of sizes and resolutions. Most offer low- or no-glare coatings, which makes them easy to view even during your longest days at the computer. Even the widest monitors are ultra-slim, so they take up little desk space and they're easy to lift and reposition. Add a monitor riser, stand or adjustment arm to customize to your space and viewing comfort.

Printers, like most technology, have come a long way in the last several years. Many offer wireless networking so multiple PCs can use the same printer, and some let you print from your smartphone or tablet wherever you are. Choose a laser printer for high-volume, professional quality results, or an inkjet for fast speeds and bright, vivid colors. Need to print, copy, scan and fax? Go with an all-in-one and do it all from one machine. Photo and wide-format printers provide savings when you need to create large posters, fliers or simply enlarge and frame a favorite image. And remember your paper, ink and toner!

Networking Routers and Cables are the foundation of any wired or wireless computer network. A router lets multiple computers share Internet access, files and more - but they're not all the same. Generally, lesser expensive models are fine for smaller homes and dorm rooms, while the more expensive models are faster, with more range and network security features. Be sure to choose the router that best suits your technology and budget.

Enjoy the day and capture the memory for later. It's easy with today's cameras and camcorders, which help you to produce professional-looking still images and digital video. For fast, high-quality images of your favorite people, places and things, choose an easy-to-use point & shoot camera. If you're a more advanced photographer looking for more control, consider a digital SLR camera. One-time-use film cameras are great for weddings and travel-and some are even safe for underwater.