Computer accessories are devices designed to increase the functionality of a computer system. From standard mice and keyboards, to gaming monitors and more, accessories enhance its abilities.

An ergonomic desk pad will keep your keyboard and mouse protected while helping to keep the area tidy. A docking station is another essential accessory.

Keyboard

The keyboard is an input device used to type text and commands onto a computer. It contains keys with lights that illuminate when certain functions, such as Caps Lock, Scroll Lock or Num Lock are activated.

Keyboards feature plastic sheets conductive sheets of plastic film with small spots of separtion at different points, which complete when you press any key on the keyboard, generating an electrical signal that can be read by a microprocessor.

Mouse

A mouse is a hand-held device used to move a cursor on your computer screen, with optional buttons that activate various computer functions.

Mouses come with either wired or wireless capabilities. Wired mice feature a USB cable with an attaching plug to connect with your computer while wireless ones feature a receiver that receives signal from their transmitter inside, inputting them directly into your PC.

Inside a mouse are sensors (typically optomechanical) that monitor movement and button presses, sending out data packets when something changes within it. When these change occur, the mouse controller sends these to the computer in real-time.

Monitor

Computer monitors display visual information relayed from the motherboard and video card of your desktop computer, and come in various screen sizes to suit various computing purposes. They may even double up as TV sets; though with subpar results.

Refresh rates of 60 Hz or greater should be sufficient for word processing, web browsing and most video games. Some modern monitors feature HDMI, USB-C or DisplayPort connections while older models often utilize VGA connectors.

Speakers

Speakers are devices used to produce sound from audio signals generated by computers or other devices that use similar types of signals, and can also be connected directly with devices that utilise similar audio output signals.

A speaker converts electrical signals to sounds by creating vibrations in a coil of wire, known as a voice coil, suspended within a magnetic field. These vibrations cause paper or plastic cone diaphragms (known as diaphragms ) to vibrate and push and pull air molecules, producing sound waves we can hear.

USB Hub

A USB hub expands the number of available USB ports on a computer system and places them within easy reach, making device connection much simpler.

Power delivery devices allow PCs to accommodate more devices without slowing down. Furthermore, these products support higher data transfer rates required for photography and videography.

Anker’s USB 3.0 hub features four USB Type-A ports with an upstream cable that tucks away when not in use – perfect for travel! Plus it’s compact and portable enough for everyday use!

Flash Drive

Flash drives provide a convenient way of moving files quickly between computers. Furthermore, they offer tangible protection for digital information that may otherwise become easy to lose or misplace.

To use a flash drive, insert it into any USB port on the computer. It should automatically make power and data connections as well as prompt a window asking you to view its files.

Dependent upon your device, it may be possible to run an entire operating system from a flash drive – particularly helpful in countries with restricted internet access.

Power Supply

The power supply is an internal box attached to the back of a desktop computer case that converts alternating current (AC) electricity to direct current (DC). It typically features several bundles of wires for connecting specific components.

These wires distribute voltage in either watts or amps to the motherboard and other internal components, with some providing backup support via standby rails. When choosing a PSU, consider form factor, efficiency, amperage requirements, cable length requirements and any additional features such as standby support when making your decision.

Desk Arm

Desk arms provide support for computer monitors and can help reduce eye, neck, and back strain caused by squinting or leaning forward. When mounted above your desk, they create more room on your desktop for other important items, like keyboards or mice.

Monitor arms should be strong and provide a range of motion to suit any work style, such as tilt, swivel and height adjustment capabilities. Many also come equipped with wire management features that keep cords out of sight on your desk.

Gooseneck

Goosenecks are semi-rigid flexible joining elements that can be bent into various positions. Constructed of coiling metal hose, goosenecks can be moved quickly and precisely into position with precision, then left there until needed again. Goosenecks are frequently found as brackets for lights, microscopes and microphones as well as cold light guides in fiber optics applications. Furthermore, goosenecks may be fitted with grippers or mirrors to inspect hard-to-reach places or lighting to illuminate darkened spaces.