© Copyright IBM Corp. 2001 13Chapter 2. Arranging your workspaceTo get the most from your server, arrange both the equipment you use and your workarea to suit your needs and the kind of work you do. Your comfort is of foremostimportance, but light sources, air circulation, and the location of electrical outlets alsocan affect the way you arrange your workspace.ComfortAlthough no single working position is ideal for everyone, here are a few guidelines tohelp you find a position that suits you best.Sitting in the same position for a long time can cause fatigue. A good chair can makea big difference. The backrest and seat should adjust independently and provide goodsupport. The seat should have a curved front to relieve pressure on the thighs. Adjustthe 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 aneutral, comfortable position. Try to keep a light touch on the keyboard and yourhands and fingers relaxed. You can change the angle of the keyboard for maximumcomfort 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 themonitor at a comfortable viewing distance, usually 51 to 61 cm (20 to 24 in.), andposition it so you can view it without having to twist your body. Also position otherequipment you use regularly, such as the telephone or a mouse, within easy reach.Glare and lightingPosition the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights, windows,and other light sources. Even reflected light from shiny surfaces can cause annoyingreflections on your monitor screen. Place the monitor at right angles to windows andother light sources, when possible. Reduce overhead lighting, if necessary, by turningoff lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If you install the monitor near a window, usecurtains or blinds to block the sunlight. You might have to adjust the Brightness andContrast controls on the monitor as the room lighting changes throughout the day.Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, an antiglare filterplaced over the screen might be helpful. However, these filters might affect the clarityof the image on the screen; try them only after you have tried all other methods ofreducing glare.Dust buildup compounds problems that are associated with glare. Remember to cleanyour monitor screen periodically using a soft cloth that is moistened with anonabrasive liquid glass cleaner.
