Roundup: Classroom and Lab Furniture - Classroom Computing Molds Classroom Furniture
As computing has become integrated into the in-classroom learning experience,
so classroom furniture has begun to adapt to new uses. The main change is simply
finding ways to accommodate all the technology flowing through the woodwork.
A corollary challenge is ergonomic—providing users enough control so that
they can see and focus on their screens comfortably for sustained periods of
time. Here are some examples of products that we think rise to the new demands
expertly.
Anthro Laptop Storage Cart
Anthro offers two laptop storage carts into which students can put their laptops
between classes. The 20-unit cart includes two lockable doors; the 30-unit cart
has four lockable doors. Both offer built-in rear placement charging capabilities
that facilitate leaving adapters plugged in at all times without having to unplug
them each time users load and unload the cart. A data connection package allows
users to port the local area network into the bottom of the unit and plug a
wireless networking hub into the cabinet near the top where it can sit or be
field mounted.
Contact: Anthro Corp., Tualatin, Ore;
(800) 325-3841; www.anthro.com.
Computer Comforts
Hide Away Table
Computer Comforts’ Hide Away table was engineered specifically with multi-use
classrooms in mind. The patented "Hide-Away" feature creates a student
worktable that d'es double duty. The table is designed to hold a flat-panel
LCD monitor that can easily be stored out of sight when not in use. An adjustable
pneumatic arm controls the monitor and allows it to be raised or lowered with
only fingertip control. A gas cylinder perfectly balances the monitor in any
position. The student raises the back section of the table, reaches in, and
lifts the monitor above the desk. A keyboard tray below the table completes
the ergonomic picture. This table is an excellent choice for training rooms
that do not always require computers.
Contact: Computer Comforts, Houston, Texas;
281-488-2288; www.computercomforts.com.
KI In Tandem
KI’s new InTandem Com- puter Support Furniture features a distinctive
setup to simplify and streamline cord management. Because of its design, there
is little or no disruption to students during changes or repairs to the power
and communication beam. The beam conceals all cables and separates power from
other cabling, eliminating cross-talk between wires. Facility managers have
complete access to the beam from both the front and back of the table; no furniture
must be moved to access the beam. There are several options for wiring InTandem
furniture; any leg can receive power and data wires to bring power/data to the
horizontal beam, from which it then runs table to table. Shared legs between
joined, side-by-side units open up the under-table area for more leg room. Tamper-resistant
fasteners provide an extra level of security.
Contact: KI, Green Bay, Wisconsin;
(800) 424-2432; www.ki.com.
MediaTech
The MediaTech SD-05 student desk is available with lockable flip-and-store monitor
mounts. The flat-panel monitor flips under the desk and out of sight when not
in use, replaced by a flat-top desk. The cable management system controls wiring
and keeps it out of sight. The desk is available in a one- or two-student model
as well as a split top version that accommodates monitors up to 19".
Contact: MediaTech, Holly Hill, Fla.;
(386) 258.9958; www.gomediatech.com.
SmartDesks
SmartDesks’s new FlipIT student desk functions both as a computer table
and a flat-top desk. The patented technology is ergonomic and easy to use. Students
simply pull out the under-desk keyboard tray, and the flat-panel monitor flips
into view. SmartDesks has designed the monitor placement so that users have
the most ergonomically-sound viewing angle while maintaining full visibility
to the instructor and other students. A hydraulic mechanism prevents smashed
fingers when the unit is closed. SmartDesks offers its own LCD monitors that
self-dim to adjust to ambient lighting. FlipIT is also available without monitors
for schools that plan to bring in their own equipment. An optional locking mechanism
keeps the hardware safe between classes. SmartDesks also offers a universal
locking system that is controlled via a remote, encoded “key.” With
the universal lock, all units lock simultaneously.
Contact: SmartDesks, Lutherville, Md;
800-770-7042; www.smartdesks.com.
Spectrum Chairiot
The Chairiot is a combination desk and chair. The ergonomic design allows students
to make adjustments for maximum comfort. The chair is available in two seating
options: in fabric, the chair has pneumatic adjustability, swivels, and meets
California 117 fire rating requirements; in polypropylene, the chair features
a sculptured shell perched on a pneumatic mechanism. The shell will resist nicks,
scratches, and impacts. The Multi-Use Chairiot has a rectangular desktop and
the Laptop Dedicated Chairiot has a fixed laptop tray. These desks can be grouped
together to save space or distributed throughout the classroom.
Contact: Spectrum Industries, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin;
(800)235-1262; www.spectrumfurniture.com.
