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Computer Peripherals: The Basics and Beyond
By an Amazon.com customer
Western Digital My Book Essential 1 TB USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive WDH1U10000NWestern Digital My Book Essential 1 TB USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive WDH1U10000N
Buy new: $137.17
Every computer should have an external hard drive to back up files or to store large files, such as movies, that are infrequently accessed. This is an affordable drive with mega storage. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RGEVM9CBGK0L8/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
Logitech QuickCam Communicate STXLogitech QuickCam Communicate STX
Buy new: $42.69 / Used from: $18.49
Although many computer screens have built-in webcams, not all do. The Logitech QuickCam STX is a great and relatively inexpensive way to go. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RAJ9PLW3D0OOV
Logitech Z Cinéma Advanced Surround Sound System--2.1 SpeakersLogitech Z Cinéma Advanced Surround Sound System--2.1 Speakers
Buy new: $249.00 / Used from: $174.99
If you listen to music and watch video/films on your computer, you'll want excellent sound. I use these every day. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3DWPPVYV018IG/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
Logitech AudioHub Notebook SpeakersLogitech AudioHub Notebook Speakers
Buy new: $39.99 / Used from: $23.99
These speakers are best for college students or people who use their laptops primarily in one place since they aren't very portable. But you get good sound, a compact unit, and good value for your money. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1VFJMDKMYL70Y/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
ooma Core VoIP Phone System with No Monthly Phone Service Billsooma Core VoIP Phone System with No Monthly Phone Service Bills
Buy new: $224.95 / Used from: $150.00
For computers with high-speed internet service, you can use VoIP, the newest generation of telecommunication. With the Ooma, you pay for the hardware -- and that's it. You won't have to pay another cent for phone calls within the US. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3A3T6OR2EPVOC
APC Back-UPS ES 8 Outlet 550VA 120VAPC Back-UPS ES 8 Outlet 550VA 120V
Buy new: $58.80
The surge protector/battery back-up unit protects your computer from power surges AND gives you precious minutes to save your work in the event of a power outage. A must have.
Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000 (Black)Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3000 (Black)
Buy new: $23.54 / Used from: $10.92
Despite the "notebook" designation, I use this wireless mouse with my desktop computer. Although those with very large hands may find it too small, the size is perfect for me. Very reliable and accurate. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2L94AAOBQ18UY/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks (Black)Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks (Black)
Buy new: $61.03 / Used from: $33.99
I love this mouse for my laptop. The tiny transmitter barely sticks out from my USB slot, and the mouse itself works well. It comes with a storage pouch and an internal slot to store the transmitter. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R39MUY0CA141AE
Linksys by Cisco WRT160N Ultra RangePlus Wireless-N Broadband RouterLinksys by Cisco WRT160N Ultra RangePlus Wireless-N Broadband Router
Buy new: Too low to display / Used from: $44.00
This wireless router is backward compatible, handing both wireless-G and -N wireless devices. N-speed is a must for gamers but also for users who need faster speed for streaming and VoIP. Best used with an ethernet switch. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RPBZQI4ZGSK5Z/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm
Linksys by Cisco Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming AdapterLinksys by Cisco Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
Don't be fooled by the "gaming" part of the name. This adapter connects wirelessly to your main wireless router, enabling you to connect otherwise wired components (Blu-ray player, Ooma, Slingbox, Playstation, etc.) to your home network. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1TKPENNZ01T52
Bamboo Fun (Medium) Black Tablet with Pen, Mouse & Graphics SoftwareBamboo Fun (Medium) Black Tablet with Pen, Mouse & Graphics Software
Buy new: $164.95 / Used from: $149.95
This excellent graphic/pen tablet is a must-have for those who do computer drawing or other work using a stylus/pen. It comes with a wireless mouse for switching between pen and traditional navigation. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RXBYS10BM8LOG
HP Color LaserJet 2600n Printer (Q6455A#ABA)HP Color LaserJet 2600n Printer (Q6455A#ABA)
Buy used from: $147.00
This color lasetjet printer is perfect for people who want color-fast pages. Great if you print flyers/brochures. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RVY220QBKZ3HL
HP Photosmart 8250 Printer (Q3470A#ABA)HP Photosmart 8250 Printer (Q3470A#ABA)
Buy used from: $74.49
If you print photos, you'll want a special purpose printer like this HP for sharp, color-accurate prints. My review is here:
Sling Media Slingbox PRO-HD SB300-100Sling Media Slingbox PRO-HD SB300-100
Buy new: Too low to display / Used from: $245.00
The Slingbox streams video from your HD or standard source (cable, satellite, Apple TV) to your computer, whether you are home in another room or across the world. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RC11TL1QXXF5R
Linksys by Cisco EZXS55W EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup SwitchLinksys by Cisco EZXS55W EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch
Buy new: $24.17 / Used from: $10.49
Great for expanding the number of ethernet ports for devices that require LAN connections. I use mine in conjunction with the Linksys N-speed Gaming Adapter. My review is here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RE69LDCOSFD42