Cool Name

Ah, yes, VIPRE even has a cool action flick name, but, best of all, it promises to give you the antivirus and antispyware protection you need without sacrificing speed. That in itself is why I plan to load it on the new laptop I’ll be purchasing this month and why I’ll recommend it. Like most professional writers, I’m more “on task” when it comes to protecting my computer than most computer users because this machine is how I support myself. My PC must be fast and work without performance slowdowns or problems.

Lightbulb Moment

After cruising SunbeltSoftware.com, I learned why the other guys, and I’ve used both top name brand antivirus products, suck the life out of your PC. Those old school antivirus products are built with layer upon layer of engines. In other words, the new build gets stacked on the old, and you end up with “bloatware.” Great word to describe how they slow your PC and give you slow scan time. They can even cause problems with PC performance.

But Wait, There’s More!

You can receive a free 15-day working trial of VIPRE Antivirus + Antispyware created by Sunbelt Software, a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, that is winning awards and winning the hearts of PC critics and users everywhere. This is not your father’s antivirus. This is the next generation of antivirus/antispyware software, and it can be yours for much less than the other guys charge. Now that’s a bennie I really like.

Cruise Website

Do yourself a favor and visit the website. Take advantage of their coupon special for new subscribers. You can buy it online or click to Live Chat or call toll free if you have any concerns. You might also be interested in the Top 10 Computer Threats page they have. It’s updated regularly to keep you informed. Sunbelt Software is committed to VIPRE and open to any suggestions you may have to improve or enhance the product. Just click the enhancement link to suggest an idea.

Takeaway Truth

Build a better mousetrap, or antivirus software, and the world will beat a path to your door.

Let’s talk about the way we work at the computer. If you’ve followed my other SlingWords blog, you may know that I’ve fought the back/shoulder/neck pain war for some time. I think everyone who spends a lot of time at a computer does.

Over the years, and with the help of chiropractors and physical therapists, I’ve found some things that minimize the chances of being incapacitated with repetitive stress injuries. The most important element in the battle for a strong healthy body is ergonomics. You must have the proper height chair, a keyboard that minimizes the chances of carpal tunnel injury, a mouse that minimizes shoulder/neck RSS, a monitor that minimizes eye strain – there’s actually a lot you can do.

XGene Keyboard

Back in the spring, I started investigating keyboards. I knew what I needed. A keyboard with a built-in mouse, hot keys for music and Internet, and wireless. I found the XGene. Even though the keyboard was a mini instead of the ergonomic wave I’ve always used, I ordered it immediately. I love it. The only thing that would make it better is if it were full size and had the wave.

Since I started using the XGene, my shoulder/neck mouse pain problems have greatly diminished. I can even sit in the easy chair in my study with the keyboard when I’m composing because it’s wireless with a good range. Highly recommended.

Ergonomics Made Easy

The next keyboards all come from the same Internet retailer Ergonomics Made Easy. It’s a BBB approved site so they’re reputable. (Always look for security badges on a site.)

First up is a Large Print Keyboard. If you’re fighting that middle-age presmyopia and need reading glasses, this keyboard is for you. I think it would be great for anyone who has some visual challenge and who is not a touch-typist. If you use the hunt and peck system of typing and you have difficulty seeing the letters on the keyboard without bifocals or reading glasses, this might be perfect for you. The print is huge and covers the entire head of the key. I’m thinking about getting my mom one of these.

Are you being frugal with your heating bill this year? You’ve set the thermostat down in the 60′s but you’re hands are so cold you can hardly type? Or maybe you work in one of those corporate offices where the temperature is a consistent meat-locker setting year round? This Heated Keyboard is just what you need. I think this is a wonderful idea. I know we women always seem to freeze in offices. How can you type when your hands are shaking with the cold? Get this for home or, if you can get permission at work, take it to the office. You won’t regret this purchase.

Are you left-handed in a world designed for right-handed people? I know my brothers are like this. Not to worry, this Left-Handed Keyboard is just for you. Why struggle with the one that came with your machine? Get something that works for you.

If you work when everyone else has gone to bed, do you do it in the dark because you don’t want to wake your husband or the kids by turning on a light where the computer is? How can you see your notes? When you’re already tired, have you noticed that you need to glance at the keyboard more frequently? Don’t make it so hard on yourself. This Lighted Keyboard will make you wonder why you didn’t get it sooner.

Last but not least is a keyboard similar to my XGene. The difference instead of mouse buttons on both sides near the top, a roller ball and a scroll wheel, this small keyboard has a Think Pad mouse. If you have a deft touch, you’ll love this.

That’s it. Six great keyboards to make life easier for you. Or for someone else if you want to give the ergonomic gift.

Takeaway Truth

Working hard is good, but working smart is better.