The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
As the summer winds down and the air turns crisp, parents and children begin to prepare for that annual ritual of back-to-school shopping. Yet 21st century students need more than crayons and glue to stay at the head of the class. Today, back-to-school shopping takes place as much in the electronics department as it does in the notepad aisle, as once futuristic, high-tech gadgets have become indispensable tools for students on the path to success. "With more reports, term papers and multi-media presentations than ever before, today's students need up-to-date technology for complex and time- consuming assignments," says Jimmy Davlouros, vice president and general manager for BenQ Canada, a global manufacturing leader in technology solutions. The latest LCD monitors are perfect tools for students who spend long periods of time in front of the computer. Delivering amazingly clear, sharp picture quality, the monitors also yield smooth, flicker-free, full-motion pictures that are easy on the eyes. The monitors have high resolutions to ensure accurate colour reproduction, and are often compatible with surround sound speakers and web cameras. Scanners also are essential equipment for students, and are especially handy to insert photos, drawings and original text into documents or multi- media presentations. Inexpensive options are available for beginners, and are small and sleek enough for easy storage. More expensive models offer additional features that allow users to restore faded photos, scan large documents and create personalized photo albums. "We have focused extensive attention on the safety and comfort of our products," said Davlouros. "We have developed several models of keyboards and mice, for example, that help users correctly align their wrists and hands to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome or other computer induced repetitive stress injuries." Teachers, too, may have their own back-to-school wish lists of tools and supplies. Along with parents and students, teachers will enjoy the versatility, clarity and true-to-life colours displayed by several models of projectors. Perfect for the classroom, boardroom or midsize home theatre, the latest projectors produce flawless pictures, run quietly and offer 3,000 hours of lamp life. "Technology today is fun, functional and has great educational value," explained Davlouros. "As we continue to advance technologically, professionals in all industries will need to be ever increasingly tech-savvy to compete in the job market. These electronic lifestyle devices are truly the tools of today helping to train and develop tomorrow's leaders." Tips for using and storing technology - Ergonomically designed equipment is important - less strain on wrists and hands will reduce the chance of developing carpal tunnel syndrome or other injuries. - Keep computers and other electronics in well-ventilated rooms to avoid overheating and damaging equipment. - Avoid placing electronics near an air-conditioning unit. The metal pieces may become colder than their surroundings, eventually causing condensation to form and damage delicate inner workings. - Take frequent breaks from staring directly at a computer monitor. Make sure to exercise the eyes often by focusing on items around the room. - Keep all liquids away from computer keyboards - an accidental spill could cause permanent damage. For more information, please visit www.BenQ.ca.
