A computer workstation is a physical configuration consisting of a desk, chair, monitor, keyboard, and drive unit. They can be designed with ergonomic considerations and made from various materials. Some are designed to be placed in a corner or grouped together. Modern setups may incorporate a second monitor or printer. Traditional office furniture can be modified, but may not be adequate for constant computer work.
The term “computer workstation” generally refers to the physical configuration in which a person works at a computer, consisting of a table or desk to support the monitor, keyboard and drive unit, as well as a chair. A computer workstation can be a worker’s entire workspace, or it can be just a part of it. For example, some managers and executives keep computer workstations in their offices separate from the desks where they do much of their work.
Many computer workstations are designed with ergonomic considerations in mind, that is, they are designed to place the various components in the most comfortable and convenient way for the user. For example, users should be able to sit up straight, feet flat on the floor, and knees and waist bent at approximately a 90-degree angle. Also in consideration of ergonomics, there is no single standard for computer workstations: they can be simple or elaborate, stationary or portable. They can be designed to be free-standing or grouped with other workstations side-by-side or back-to-back.
Some are designed to be placed in a corner; these can also be grouped into groups of four. Computer workstations are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or glass. Some have built-in wiring to reduce the need for cable management.
Computer workstation designers are often expected to create units that take up as little space as possible. This is done to maximize the number of units that can be placed in an office. Meeting ergonomic guidelines while keeping the unit footprint to a minimum is relatively easy when only the three basic components are included. Some units are so narrow, however, that even adding a multi-key phone to the desktop crowds the surface.
Some modern computer setups incorporate a second monitor, and many require a printer. The secondary monitors should be roughly the same height as the primary monitors, which creates pressure to make the unit wider. Those computer workstations built to house printers often place them on a high shelf that is awkward to reach and monitor.
In some cases, traditional office furniture is modified to serve as computer workstations. The most common adaptation is the addition of sliding keyboard trays to traditional desks. Such furniture may be acceptable for occasional computer use, but is usually inadequate for constant computer work due to ergonomic considerations.
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