Due to their design, laptops are not very ergonomic. The design prevents the screen and keyboard from being separate (mimicking the set up of a PC) and so makes it very hard to achieve a good working posture.
• Neck, shoulder and eye strain from working in awkward postures
• Wrist and hand problems from using the keyboard and touchpad/nipple mouse for prolonged periods
What to look for in a laptop:
• Light weight
• Balance of screen size vs. portability
• Long battery life – reducing the need to carry charger, cables etc.
• Touch pad mouse rather than the ‘nipple’ mouse device
• Enough USB inputs to facilitate separate USB or wireless mouse, keyboard & CD Rom etc.
• Sufficient memory and processing power to handle the applications required
Ideally you should use a separate monitor and keyboard – most manufacturers will offer docking stations, which allows a more permanent ergonomic solution to be created on any work station in conjunction with the separate monitor and keyboard/mouse.
However, if these are not available:
• Sit in a position where arms and wrists can be kept in a neutral position, with shoulders relaxed and the back supported.
• Ensure the monitor and screen of the laptop is lined up centrally to the body – the letter ‘B’ is lined up with the belly button.
• Extended use is not recommended. If you must use a laptop without ergonomic aids, periods of 15-20mins of use before taking a break are recommended.
DesignEye 